Bachmann Harry Potter set - Any good?

I have one, and IMO it's good value for the money, espcecially now that it's being heavily dicounted as Pottermania dies down. The loco is nicely done, not superdetailed, but well-proportioned and accurate enough (it's a GWER Hall IIRC). The coaches are similarly medium level detail. It runs well, even with the simple power pack included with the set, but is a bit fussy on 18" R (the curves I used under the Christmas tree.) The couplers (British hook-and-loop style) operate at their limit at this radius, and the train derailed a few times. It would run (and look) a lot better on 22" R and up. Needs code 83 or taller rail. Looks very nice in a Christmas village setting. I'm satisfied.

NB: The scale is British OO - 4mm scale bodies running on 16.5 mm gauge.

If I wanted to run it on a scale layout, I would replace the couplers with KD #6 or similar long-shank couplers. I might even (shudder!) remove the buffers to obviate buffer lock when pushing.

Hi Wolfe

thanks for the response - it does seem good value - I have the chance to buy three sets for around $110 + delivery, which sounds ok. At that sort of price, I felt it might be ok to super detail loco and coaches.

Steve