This forum is for collectors of emergency vehicle models to discuss any aspect of the industry. Feel free to post comments on current releases, future models, items for sale/trade, or items wanted.
I have to say that the Diamond Plate Skywalker Ranch Engine, without a doubt, represents the finest Code-3 replica to date. Nothing they have made before, or since, can equal the quality and attention to detail that this replica represents. It seems that every time I look at mine, I find something new… something that I don’t recall seeing before.
Now, if you mean replicas in the 1:64th scale, then I would have to say the Boston E-One Platform Ladder. This too is the benchmark for Code-3 in the 1:64th scale. The high quality paint job, clean graphics, the incredible attention to detail, all combine to make this an absolutely superb model.! ! ! The only thing I can fault, if I must, is the waterway on the last ladder fly. It is way too small, but I can live with that.
In my conversations, we did discuss both 1/64th and 1/32nd Code 3 models...and, yes, in 1/32nd scale, the Skywalker Ranch Pierce Dash Pumper was right up at the top of the list, and FDNY's Squad 61 Seagrave wasn't too far behind, either.
Regarding the excellent E-One towers, I recall one notable flaw in that tooling. The bucket rides/sits some scale feet higher than it should on the real thing.
Does that nit negate "best ever" status? Unless you modify the bracket holding the thing, and lower the bucket to correct position?
I'd second the motion for Chicago squads as the pinnacle of accuracy.
Yes, the E-One Platform's bucket mount is mounted FAR too high. But hey, at least they put a ladder cradle on it.... unlike the E-One straight stick that followed.... which is lacking in that feature.
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I have to agree that the Chicago Squads are the best they ever did. Generally to scale, & nicely done details. I have 1 pair & they are a couple of the very few I plan to keep.(of what's left of my C-3s)
My fav's in collection go with the Sag Harbor ALF ladder, Philly Squrt 57 and San Diego L 28. Still hoping Code 3 will come out with Spartan cab units.
LA 51 where it all began, the rig that said to Arnie, there is a market for fine quality detailed fire apparatus. All the rigs you mentioned are just the progeny of LA 51
Most of my code 3 models rotate between my cabinet and boxes, but both the Violetville ALF and Mack always stay in my cabinet. I guess that means they are my favorites.
My favorite is the Hoffman Estates Pierce Rescue. It does everything a model should do. Looks good on the shelf and is pretty good representation of the real thing.
This is an interesting topic because it can go many different ways. You could vote like Chuck and I did on our favorites even if they aren't the most detailed models. You could vote on the most accurate. You could vote on the most detailed.
I must also add I like the fireboats a lot as well. For some reason I felt the need to collect them when I could find them on the cheap.