I personally do not own any black and tan hounds. I have owned nothing but walkers my whole life and have had good luck with them and enjoy hunting them. I have had a couple of buddies that have had black and tans, there has been a couple of them that i have seen turn out to be real good hounds. In my personal opinion i believe a lot of it has to do with bloodlines and how the dog is "brought up" by the owner. With the right dog and the right knowledge to back it up you can turn any breed into a good hound. Just do your research but of course most people you talk to will be a little bit biased on there pick of breed, as i am with walkers. Coon hunting is a fun and great sport to get into. good luck and happy hunting!