on a new character i created i dont know who to pick. i dont plan on siding with the ncr so that is not an issue. If i pick McNamara will the lockdown be lifted? Ive done hardin before and want to try the other way only if it lifts the lockdown

I think it does lift the lockdown, you just cannot get into the BoS I think

but i still get power armor training and full access to the armory right?

If you keep McNamara in power:

-Lockdown is lifted
-Full armory is available
-You can join the BoS and get PA training

He can also be convinced to ally with the NCR if you're going that route, whereas Hardin is a hardliner and will not even consider that.

MacNamara vs. Hardin is choosing between a coward and a deluded tough guy.

Here's what it really boils down to.
Hardin is faster if your goal is to get power armor training your not required to do nearly as much work to. You do however have to wipeout the Van Graff's which may or may not be a problem depending on your playthrough. Additionally you can't ally BoS with the NCR.

If your planning on blowing up the BoS later on you might as well go with Hardin.

Yes, he will realize he was being too cautious and lift the lockdown and you can become a Paladin and get Power Armor Training.

So for more fame i guess ill go with mcnamara

Yea, with McNamara you get "Liked" rep instead of "Accepted."

I regret blowing up the BoS. I've always liked them, they kept me stocked in free MF and E cells. D;

Wrong section.