So, the Union Mills discussions have got me wondering:

I only need (need  ) one steam loco for my purposes. The old concerns about N Gauge steam is what drove me to Union Mills in 2014.

But, the threads of late seem to suggest the modern steam offerings of other brands have come a long way.

What one non-Union Mills steam locomotive that could have reasonably been seen in Scotland in the 50s/60s  should I target?

I'm talking strictly model performance and reliability.  Looks be damned; I want a runner!

as South Lanarkshire was a major coalfield, For coal haulage, the J38 lasted until the 1960's. for more mixed traffic, the J39 which came later with larger driving wheels could be your choice. me personally I have both!

Hope this helps

Alex

Alex 

South Lanarkshire was a mixture of industrial, especially coal mining, and agricultural. It was firmly Caledonian territory with a few North British intrusions. Not really an area for LNER 'J38' or 'J39' 0-6-0s. The 'J38' class was exclusive to Scotland and used in the Fife and Lothian coalfields. And was the last Gresley-designed class in BR service.

I suppose the period modelled is the most important factor.

If in the BR era, Fairburn 2-6-4T locomotives were commonly used, but the best example would probably be a 'Black Five' 4-6-0. I understand both are made by Graham Farish, although I'll leave it to others to comment regarding performance and reliability.

If your preference is a Union Mills locomotive, the obvious choice would be a '2P' 4-4-0. The LMS sent a lot of these to Scotland, especially to the former Glasgow & South Western lines, but to ex-'Caley' steam sheds as well. They were in service from the late 'Twenties to the early 'Sixties. I have several and they are truly lovely little locomotives.

With all good wishes.

John

Original post edited for clarity.