Bachmann H1 4-4-2, Southern 2038, Plus a Bonus

I've always liked British locomotives, mostly steam, some diesel, so this will be the first of recurring British locomotive reviews, to add variety.

Note, British locomotives in this size are "OO" scale, not HO, but run perfectly fine on normal HO scale layouts. The reason, I believe, for the scale difference, is that in real life British rolling stock is very small, confined by their restricted loading gauge, so having a specific scale for British models allows them to properly portray details and still operate on common systems. So a British loco will not be to scale with an American one on the same layout.

Anyway, let's get into the review.

First off, I apologize for the less than optimal lighting - since I photographed this one I've acquired more lights and adjusted my photography methods.

I'll give some general prototype history first: The H1 was originally designed by Douglas Earle Marsh for the LB&SCR (London, Brighton & South Coast Railway). They were built between 1905-1906 by Kitson & Co, with 5 being produced. The H1 "Atlantics", as 4-4-2 are commonly referred to as, proved successful, and remained on the roster through the "Grouping" which saw several smaller railways merged into the biggest few, the LBSC going to the Southern Railway. Eventually replaced by larger, more powerful locos, they were withdrawn between 1944-1951, with none surviving into preservation.

And history on this specific engine: Originally built as LBSC 38 in December 1905, once the Southern took over it was repainted into Southern's "Malachite Green" livery, renumbered to 2038, and named "Portland Bill". The name originated from the Southerns's publicity department deciding that express locomotives should be named, to improve the company image. The H1's were named after coastal landmarks in southern England (Portland Bill being a narrow promontory on the southern end of the Isle of Portland). 2038 was withdrawn in 1951 and subsequently scrapped.

The box.

Info on the end of the box.

And the locomotive.

Closeup of loco.

Closeup of tender.

And very nicely detailed cab interior.

It also came with lots of detail parts.

And metal etched nameplates.

My verdict.

Positives:

1. Runs nicely - no cutting out or unusual noise

2. DCC operates perfectly

3. Whistle is speed related - faster speed = longer whistle - which is impressive

4. Paint and details are all perfect

5. Detail parts provided, but not necessary for loco to look nice and run properly, so choice on whether to use them is up to the modeler

6. Very nice metal nameplates

7. Good weight, which means it stays on the track and can haul decent loads

Negatives:

1. Not really a big deal, but the sound has a slightly tinny, shallow quality. Maybe due to the small size of available space for the speaker, or just a subpar speaker, but small, good quality speakers are available (looking at you, AirPods).

Conclusion: I recommend it - looks great and operates great!

And the bonus.

I didn't want to devote an entire post to this, so I'll put it here.

Railgon Gondola GONX 310330.

I got this to fit in with my layout's eventual scrap yard, as in hauling scrap.

It looks great and handles on the track as it should - recommended.

Thanks for looking, and if you have any questions, drop a comment below!