What is the #1 missing product

[nachoman]

Frankly how about the Baldwin 90 ton Logging 2-8-2's and a really nice, well balanced and detailed 2-6-2 and 2-6-0? I'm surprised bachmann hasn't touched the Baldwin loggers, because they seem like a perfect addition to their lineup of locomotives. In reality they sold quite well to a somewhat standard design and there are still plenty of surviving examples of these low-drivered workhorses.

Also a nicely detailed 2-6-2T would be great for branchlines or surburban commute service.

absolutely 100% agreed. I am not a logging expert, but my guess is most logging operations used small rod engines and not geared engines. Yet, if you want to model a logging operation in HO, you have the bachmann 3-truck shay. I don't know if the rivarossi heisler is available anymore, but I know the spectrum climax is out of production, and the ones they did make have gear problems and replacement parts are unavailable. For rod type logging engines, the options are slim. There is the bachmann 0-6-0t that would look okay, the Mantua (model power) 0-6-0t and 2-6-6-2. The MDC 2-8-0 and may work okay, but somehow it doesn't quite have that "logging" feel to it. Of course, you can pick up an out of production MDC 0-6-0. But, there are zero 2-8-0s available that would suit a logging line, and the only 2-6-2 (a common logging wheel arrangement) is the bachmann USRA 0-6-0 with pilot and trailing trucks added. Everything else has too big of drivers.

If you want to model non-geared logging operations in HO, you are pretty much up that inevitable creek without a paddle (unless you buy brass).

To further add - HO is severely lacking in slide valve steamers.