I have always been a steam guy. There’s just something about the way a steam loco moves… it’s almost alive. The slow chuff, the little hiss when it stops, the side rods clanking along—pure magic. My go-to has always been a Mikado, 2-8-2 type. Not too big, not too small, and it just looks right pulling a mixed freight through some countryside.
That said, I won’t lie early diesels have a charm of their own. I’ve got an old F7 in the collection that still gets plenty of track time. Electrics and high-speed stuff?
Cool to watch, but I guess I’m stuck in the steam and early diesel camp.
From the hiss of steam to the hum of electrics, every locomotive type brings something unique to the rails—and to our layouts. Some modelers are all about steam-era grit and grime, others prefer the bold geometry of early diesels, and some love the sleek, modern power of electrics or high-speed units.
So let’s hear it:
Are you a steam fan? What’s your favorite wheel configuration or prototype to model?
Do classic F-units or hood diesels rule your roster?
Or maybe you’ve gone full modern with electric units and high-speed bullet trains?
