A3 vs Connor Beam vs Raritan

[Weibel]

For a first locomotive, which would y'all pick?

[Marty_Knox]

I would suggest you look at the new Allen 0-4-0, but I am slightly biased.

[steamin10]

A3, Raretan, Allen 0-4-0, Marie Estelle, are all good small builds with lots of run possibilities, in 1.5 scale. They are pretty much the same level of build skill, and present no special challenges that I can think of. Some have castings available, others favor stock. I like the Allen mogul, just a little heavier engine, without a lot of extra work.

Dealers choice: old outline, or more modern? I like 1890's with short cars and bill board ads, home built looking.

[Weibel]

I would suggest you look at the new Allen 0-4-0, but I am slightly biased.

Perhaps, but that's okay.

[SteveM]

For a first locomotive, which would y'all pick?

What scale are you intending to build and what machines do you have to build with?

Steve

[Weibel]

7.5" gauge, scale doesn't mean crap to me, and at home I have a grizzly G0704+G4000 (on the way) and my clubs full sized mill and lathe.

[steamin10]

Scale should matter. 2.5 scale will cost about 3x what 1.5 will, plus the matter of large trailer/truck to haul it anywhere.

2.5 will allow hardware store real parts and plumbing, instead of dollhouse looking, but everything else will cost you in weight and bulk. Consider carefully, and make the right choice for you.

[Weibel]

Do you think that if I am asking between these three locomotives that I am really sitting here cutting hairs about scale anymore?

[Wayne Davis]

The advantage with the Allen 040 over the A3 and Raritan in 1 1/2 you would not have to scale up the plans from 3/4".

Wayne

[kvom]

You might look at Trainman's new engine "kit".

[Benjamin Maggi]

The A3 and the Allen Models 0-4-0 look much different than a Beam Engine, and a bit different than a Raritan. Since you will be "stuck" with it for years, through good times and frustrating times, pick the engine YOU like best. Also, if you are planning on running on tracks with steep grades that may influence your decision.

[kenrinc]

Do you think that if I am asking between these three locomotives that I am really sitting here cutting hairs about scale anymore?

Well quite frankly considering 2 of the 3 listed locomotives in the title of this post are, AS DESIGNED, 3/4 scale locomotives are we supposed to guess?

Ken-