In what order would you train?

[bwgilchrist]

So, I am looking at a float rating and a taildragger checkout.

I'm likely going to do one this year and the other next year.

What order would you take them? I won't regularly be flying either once I get the rating/checkout

[digits_]

If you won't be flying either one, why are you getting them?

For employment reasons? If so, do the float rating as soon as you go apply for jobs. A recent float rating/experience is worth more than an 'old' one. Especially in the beginning, it's a perishable skill.

[5x5]

If you’re doing the training a year apart and you won’t be using either rating much, if at all, then I assume it is primarily out of simple interest and exposure to different aspects of flying. As such it likely doesn’t really matter. However, I would still recommend doing the taildragger first. This will make you become more aware of actually paying close attention to what the aircraft is doing at all times on the ground and becoming a bit better at remaining “on top” of what’s happening. Trikes tend to taxi and fly fairly well even with rough/poor pilot input. Taildraggers not so much. This experience, even with a year’s separation will have you just a bit more aware and in touch with the aircraft when you do the float rating, which again requires much more attention and better handling than a nosedragger off pavement.

Regardless which order, I’m sure you’ll enjoy the heck out of them both.