83 pages - an indispensable resource for model railroading hobbyists. This carefully written book covers: scale, guage, and standards - benchwork - track - locomotives & rolling stock - scenery & structures - resources.
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83 pages - an indispensable resource for model railroading hobbyists. This carefully written book covers: scale, guage, and standards - benchwork - track - locomotives & rolling stock - scenery & structures - resources.
This comprehensive 75-page ebook is jam packed with nearly everything you need to know about starting, creating, and maintaining this facinating hobby. Contains secrets & tips to ensure you don't make mistakes that can cost you your time & money.
One train enthusiast might want a model train that runs through a garden outside. Another train enthusiast might have extensive space for spreading out a large set of train tracks and someone else might have a smaller space but wants to fill it with a couple of different train tracks. To fulfill all of these different needs, model train makers have made several different sizes of trains.
The most popular size of the large scale trains is size O. The scale for O is 1/48th. Meaning it is one 48th the size of a regular sized train. The gauge for O is 1 ¼ inches. Many of these larger sized trains are used outdoors in gardens. Of course this does not fill the needs of everyone in the train world.
The HO gauge is half the size of the larger O scale. HO stands for “Half of O”. The HO scale is 1/87. HO trains use the standard size track gauge of 16.5mm. HO scale is a popular size to use in layouts. They are small enough to be able to use creative scenery with well-designed track plans in a reasonable amount of space. But they are also large enough to be able to accommodate a great deal of detail in finer models. They are also large enough for children to handle without the risk of small parts or tiny components being damaged. With the HO scale being able to provide the balance between the detail of larger scales and the lower space requirements of smaller scales, it is a highly sought after railroad line by train hobbyists compared to other scales.
HO scale model trains first appeared in the UK during the 1930's. They were introduced as an alternative to OO scale. But OO scale was already established in the UK and therefore HO scale had a hard time making any real commercial headway. Luckily, the hobbyists of the United States high demand of a realistic based toy during the late 1950's allowed the HO scale model trains to really take off throughout the 1960's and continued right up to today. More then two thirds of train lovers have ranked HO scale as their favorite train scale.
Due to the popularity of the HO scale, a huge array of locomotives, sets, accessories and rolling stock are made by many different companies. Train lovers can find a large array of HO scale train sets with ready-to-run trains and modular track, craftsman grade kits, supplies for building models from scratch, and even high detailed limited-edition locomotive models made of brass. Hobbyists will even go to the lengths of seeking out not only local hobby shop supplies, but look to global suppliers and foreign manufacturers to find that exact piece to complete their layout.
So if you have dreams of seeing a vast landscape with rolling hills or a small town and all of the things you think the towns people of your landscape will enjoy, the HO scale model trains are for you. Awe your friends with watching your magnificent locomotive chugging down the track, winding through the hills and through a tunnel. The HO scale model trains can make all of your dreams come true.
A guide to different aspects of model trains including scale, gauge, and landscapes. Glossery of model train vocabulary.
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You've heard the saying "different strokes for different folks" well, the same concept applies to model train hobbyists, one hobbyists might want to own model railroad trains that can run outdoors in and through their garden another might only have a small space in the closet. Some model train hobbyists have great imaginations and the space to go along with it for creating massive track layouts, others just don't have the space and have to think of unique ways to set up their trains. Thankfully, model railroad trains come in a good variety of sizes to suit the needs of just about everyone.
Arguably, the most used size train is the O gauge which is one of the larger sizes. The O scale translates to 1/48th. The 1/48th scale means that the model is one forty-eighth the size of a real live train. Another important measurement is the "gauge" and the gauge for O scale is 1.25 inches. Model railroad trains with this size track are often used for outdoor layouts, just do a search on Youtube for O scale. Obviously, the O gauge isn't for everyone and smaller trains appeal to model train enthusiasts for a number of good reasons.
One of the smaller scale trains is the HO gauge which is approximately 1/2 the size of the O scale. The meaning of HO is easy to remember since it literally stands for one half of O. The actual scale size of HO trains is 1/87. Another important number for HO scale model trains is the "track gauge" which is 16.5mm for HO model trains. The size of HO scale trains makes it a popular model train able to create some very unique layouts. The small size allows for some very realistic scenery with complex HO track layouts that really use very little space. HO scale model trains come with a variety of detail, you can get a basic train with little detail or you can spend a lot of money and get a train so detailed that you're afraid to let anyone touch it! Small children under 5 should be kept away from HO trains and those between 6 and 8 should be supervised to avoid damaging your train, after some instruction you might find them fully capable of handling your setup. Since HO scale mode trains are sort of in between the large trains and small trains, they have been a very popular scale and you'll find no end to the train engines, cars and accessories available for purchase.
Historically, the HO scale model trains were first manufactured in the United Kingdom around 1930. At the time, the 00 scale was popular in England and the HO scale was created as a competitor to the OO scale. Since the 00 scale was already deeply entrenched in the model train market the HO scale had a difficult time trying to make any headway into the market. Markets have a way of establishing themselves and the model train hobbyists in the U.S. demanded a high quality realistic train in the 1950's when they discovered the HO trains from England, by the 1960's the HO model train market really exploded in America and hasn't slowed down since. There's research that indicates HO scale trains are preferred by more than 2/3 or model train hobbyists.
Since HO scale trains compose such a huge part of the market, you'll find a tremendous selection of supplies and trains with a wide price point range along with a very large number of model train manufacturers. Walk into any hobby shop and you'll find HO scale trains and supplies, the larger the shop the more choices you'll have, but I always recommend trying to support your local hobby shop even if it means you have to special order items because there is no end to the variety of HO trains and supplies. Even though I suggest using your local hobby shop first, the internet provides global access to HO supplies that is almost unimaginable and don't forget auctions like Ebay.
Given the wide choice of scale model trains, the HO scale model trains will provide you with everything and anything you can imagine for setting up the train layout of your dreams that will impress your family and friends while creating hours of entertainment for you and your model train friends. Nothing can ever replace the sight and sound of your model train winding through curves, into a tunnel and through the local town. Check out your local phone book and the internet to find a local train club, they will be more than happy to share their hobby with you and answer any questions you might have about HO scale model trains!
Free e-book for model train enthusiast, http://www.GuideForModelTrains.com Sign-up for a free 11-part "Secrets to Successful Model Railroading" email course. Learn everything you need to know about setting up ultra cool HO scale model train layout that will bring joy to the life of yourself and your family for years to come! Learn more about HO trains, layouts and parts at the above links. Do you know the one thing every locomotive must have to attain full power? If not, the free class will tell you that and much more!
If you have been a model railroader for some time you will understand that the costs of model trains can add up very quickly. Model trains are the best hobby in the world, but if you are going to pay full retail price for everything you buy, it will soon become the most expensive hobby you have ever had!
Here is how to save money on your model trains:
1) Make Sure You know What You Want
A common mistake with beginner railroaders is to start collecting one scale of model trains only to find that there are more accessories in another scale, so they change over. Do your research first, speak to other railroaders, check how much space you have available, do you want diesel or steam locomotives, will your layout be multi-level, etc.
Think carefully about what you want. Hobby shop sales people love customers that walk in and ask their advice. Most of the sales people are on commission bonuses or incentives, so it is natural for them to sell you what is in stock and preferably the equipment with the biggest commissions.
With the internet it is easy to do some quality research and find the best price. Often model train equipment from different states or countries can be much cheaper, even with postage included.
2) Create Half a Layout
A model train that takes up your whole basement looks very impressive, but the bigger your layout the more money you will spend. Often beginner model railroaders will see large and impressive layouts at their local model train club and want to build a similar sized layout.
They usually do not have any idea what that large layout has cost the owner and how many hundreds of hours have been invested in building the system. Start off slowly with a half sized layout built against a wall. With clever use of backdrops you can make your layout appear twice as big as it actually is.
A half sized layout is quicker to build and will provide any beginner railroader a good idea of costs and time involved. A half sized layout can always be pulled away from the wall and made twice or three times as big.
3) Buy 2nd Hand
I have bought locomotives off eBay for a tenth of the price of a new one. Model train enthusiasts are generally very careful with their model train equipment, so it is very rare that you will buy a dud.
Unfortunately some veteran railroaders die after 30 or 40 years of model railroading. Often complete sets like these can be bought for a fraction of the cost of buying new. Set up an alert on eBay, watch your local newspapers and community boards, keep in touch with your local model train club and ask the hobby shops.
Hobby shops usually only sell new equipment because the profits are bigger, so they will happily keep your details on file should someone come in wanting to sell 2nd hand equipment. Advertise in newspapers and newsletters that you want to buy 2nd hand model train equipment. Most veteran model railroaders have far too much equipment for their needs and usually have had stuff sitting in boxes for years. Your advert may come at a time when they need some cash.
4) Trade With Other Railroaders
Model train clubs are great places to swap or trade model train equipment. Often railroaders do not want cash but they may want what you have. It does not mean that you have to swap a diesel locomotive for a diesel locomotive, you could trade your skill in building a pond or painting their model train room. The ideas are endless and this can be a massive money saver.
5) Always Spend Your Hard Earned Money on Quality Over Quantity
If you have the money and only want new equipment than you absolutely must buy quality over quantity. Locomotives can cost hundreds of dollars and it can be tempting to buy a locomotive at the lower end of the price scale. Manufacturers have become very good at producing lower priced locomotives that are well detailed and look good. However they lack in their inner workings.
A common mistake is to say you will upgrade later, because the initial money you spent will be wasted. Once you experience quality equipment you will never use the low quality stuff again.
6) Make It Rather Than Buy It
Model trains will teach skills that you never had before. From working with electrics to creating rivers and ponds to building landscapes and so much more. It is this skill set that you develop that makes model trains the best hobby in the world.
Every part of model trains can easily be learnt by buying an ebook, a book or asking your model train club. So make it before you buy it. Buildings can be bought in kit form but it is so much more fun (and cheaper) creating the structure from scrap wood, beads, glue, paint and other bits and pieces.
7) Keep a Journal And Budget
It can be very easy to impulsively buy when being sold by an enthusiastic hobby shop sales person. If you know what you want and have done your research online you will know how much you need to spend, which will make negotiating easier.
Building a reasonable sized model train layout can run into the thousands of dollars. If you have $500 to spend then you do not want to even start with this layout. You will end up with a half finished layout until you find some extra money.
As you buy your model train equipment record the date, the details of the item you bought and the price you paid in a journal or notebook. That way, when you come to sell it 2 or 3 years later, you know what you paid for it and can price it accordingly. A journal is a great way to record your progress. Keep pictures as you are building your layout and comment on any issues or milestones.
Dan B Morgan is the author of HO Scale Model Trains - compulsory reading for any model train enthusiast. This site contains valuable information on... "Everything Model Train Related!" For a FREE report and other bonuses click here => http://www.homodeltrains.info/
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There are many different interesting facts about toy model railway trains. The more you get into the hobby of model railroading, the more you will find out. Those just getting started will be interested by some of the things experienced railroaders have come to know over the years. Below you will find a list of ten interesting facts about the model train.
(1) The Truth About G Scale. Many people have come to accept G scale coming from the word garden. G scale actually comes from the term Gros which is a German word for big or large. The reason why so many people call them garden trains is because they are used as outside trains. Layouts include plants and grass from the gardens people have in their homes.
(2) History of Model Railway Trains. The toy model train started out as novelty toy for children. These toys followed shortly after trains were used as modes of transportation and delivery. These toys did not have very much detail. As time went on, adults became interested in the model railway trains and an entire industry was born.
(3) High Society Model Train. In the Victorian era, there were many different social clubs, which met to talk about model trains. It was considered highly exclusive to have your own model train set with an elaborate layout. The prices of the trains put them out of the hands of common people making it trendy to own them.
(4) World War One. Before World War 1, the majority of toy model trains were made in Germany. This became a problem in a time when Germany became the enemy of the world and all production was halted. This allowed many companies like Lionel to become the powerhouses in model trains they are today.
(5) Track Materials. The material used to make the tracks have changed over the years. One of the most popular materials has been brass. This has given way to aluminum and stainless steel as options many people prefer. One of the most popular materials to use is a nickel alloy blend, which costs less while still being light and conductive.
(6) Weathering For Detail. A very big design feature many train modelers include in their layouts is weathering. This will give the train and the layout the appearance of realism most people are looking for. By adding stains, or wear, the entire design will appear as if it has been affected by the conditions.
(7) Why N Scale is Cheaper. The N scale is one of the most popular scales of toy model train. The popularity along with the size makes it very easy to mark down. Using less materials and being easier to add details also play important roles in allowing manufacturers to reduce the cost of the finished product.
(8) The Future of Model Trains. Model trains have undergone many changes over the years from being able to only run one train to running several. It used to take a highly skilled conductor to manage multiple trains. Now with computers, it is easy to manage several trains on the same track at once.
(9) Trains You Can Ride on. The 1:8 ratio model rail train is not something everyone has space for. It has become popular for those who have the money in order to have fun with their children, or simply to have a model that is easier to work on. Being able to operate the model with coal or propane allows you to have the live steam most modelers prefer.
(10) Train Clubs. No matter what scale train you own, there is probably a club you can join of others who prefer the same scale. These clubs are recommended for anyone regardless of skill level. They are great places to show off and get new ideas from.
There is much more information available about toy model trains. You are sure to discover something you will want to pass along, as you get more familiar with the hobby itself.
David Blackburn has had a passion for Model Trains for over 20 years. His enthusiasm and knowledge on the subject of model trains can be found in his writing and his new book. For more great information on toy model trains visit his site at: http://www.modeltrainsadvice.com While you are there don't forget to sign up for his FREE "Secrets To Successful Model Railroading" Mini Course.
The Model Body Workout Program is a 12-week fitness plan filled with all the secrets I use to train professional models. Included with the 6-component program are 5 free bonuses for how you can look like a lean, toned, sexy and in-demand model. Continuity
Model train collecting is becoming more and more popular and with this new found popularity comes a whole new range of model trains that are better, more exiting and more expensive than the basic traditional model trains. Over the past few years a number of professional railroaders have built collections of model trains that other railroaders envy. This is why model train shows started popping up around the country so people can show there model trains and talk about them with likeminded people.
In these fascinating shows you will find that there are a whole range of trains that are so accurate it would be almost impossible to find a difference between the model train and the original train. In fact, some model railroad collectors have exact replicas of trains and the scenery that surrounds them - this is quite amazing!
You will also find that there are a range of accessories that you can buy from these model train shows, such as scenery items, new model trains, software, display cases and tools. There is everything available at these shows to get a beginner started or for an expert to take their model train collection to the next level. These shows are a delight for people interested in model trains.
Often these shows attract people who are not railroaders at all but just enjoy seeing and watching other peoples model trains, often these people are fascinated by complexity of these model trains. A lot of these people don't understand how exiting model railroading is and how much time and effort has gone into making these model trains.
There will be a large collection of different people at these model train events including beginners, experts, retailers, authors and just about anyone else who is interested in model trains. These model train shows are a great place to meet new people and make new friends who have similar interested as you do. If you are looking for some advice or you just want to look around these shows and show of your model trains I highly recommend that you visit one of these model train shows.
Learn how to care for your model trains, build beautiful scenery and uncover hundreds of closely guarded railroading tips and secrets on my website http://www.ModelSteamTrain.net
Generations of model railroads enthusiasts have cherished owning Hornby model trains. Due to the fact that Hornby trains have been around for over 80 years, they are still loved by both collectors and modern model railroad enthusiasts. As a matter of fact the OO scale of Hornby model railroads are still a very popular scale enjoyed in England. Hornby OO gauge trains allow a person the benefits of being able to have a nice train arrangement and still be able to easily handle the trains and view them. Plus, the large variety of trains and accessories available in the OO scale allow them to meet the desires of a lot of model railroad hobbyists.
Hornby has a long history and is largely popular. Frank Hornby founded Meccano Ltd., the forerunner to today's "Hornby Hobbies" company; in 1908 to manufacture model toys. In 1901 he was able to obtain a patent for 'Improvements in Toy or Educational Devices for Children and Young People.' The first set of toys Meccano made was a educational Hornby set designed for use in schools. In 1920, Meccano introduced the first Hornby branded train.
Many people feel that Hornby model trains are tantamount to their OO gauge trains, known as 'Hornby Dublo.' The OO gauge trains, with a scale of 1:76.2 (4 mm equals 1 foot), is a wonderful collection of locomotives, carriages, and wagons which were manufactured from 1938 until 1963. It took 12 vdc for power and ran on a 3-rail track. This gauge continues to be popular in England, while in the rest of the world the HO gauge is the most popular Hornby Dublo. Hornby is also related to the well liked Tri-ang Hornby line of model trains. Model railroad hobbyists and collectors alike still love both lines of Hornby model railroads.
Even in today's market, Hornby Hobbies of Kent, UK manufacturers' a large variety of OO and N gauge models, including a complete line of OO gauge locomotives, rolling stock, and controllers. Enthusiasts and collectors can complement their OO model trains with the Skaledale line of buildings, autos, scenic accessories, and track accessories For those that prefer the N scale model trains, Lyddle End produces a line of Hornby buildings.
There is also controversy lurking in the history of Hornby and the OO scale model railroads. You can use the same gauge track for both the OO scale model trains and the HO scale model trains. However, this 16.5 mm gauge track was only intended to be used for the HO scale of 1:87. The controversy lies in the fact that the OO scale model trains with a scale of 1:76 are able to use the track scaled at 1:87. This inconsistency makes some enthusiasts claim that the OO gauge railroads are intrinsically out of scale. No matter why these trains can be used on a different track, the joy enthusiasts get from working with the OO gauge trains overshadows the concern about any inaccuracies in scale.
Even though they are the most popular for both collectors and enthusiasts alike, Hornby model trains and the OO scale only make up a small portion of the model railroad world. Even though Hornby Dublo and Tri-Ang trains remain popular with collectors, Hornby products are evolving with the time to meet the needs of enthusiasts. On the market today, enthusiasts and collectors can find a full line of OO and N gauge kits, trains, and accessories. One popular item in this line of products is the Hornby Flying Scotsman. Even with advancements, Hornby trains and their OO scale remain popular to a lot of model train enthusiasts.
Mike Foster is a model train enthusiast and enjoys helping others learn about this fascinating hobby.
For more on Hornby model trains, visit his website: http://model-train-essentials.com
At first upon entering the exciting world of model trains, hearing the words scales and gauges running through model train enthusiast’s conversations like it is part of everyday language is kind of intimidating. You might be thinking that building model trains and scenery is way out of your league. But, as your love of trains grows so will your understanding of the terms used within the model train world and all of its elements.
When folks are out to set up their vision of the perfect landscape with the perfect train running through it, they have to consider size. Model trains and train tracks are made by many different people and used for many different things. Luckily, with so many choices, you can find the one that is right for you. In order to ensure any brand of train fitting on any brand of tracks, train makers make trains and tracks according to scale and gauge. When the model train hobbyists are talking about the scale of the train, they are talking about the size. Scale is exactly that, a scaled down replica of the life-size or the prototype train. It is the ratio and the different letters assigned to the scales reflect the natural differences in ratio.
An N scale train is on the smaller side in comparison to other scale models. In fact, it is the smallest of the four most popular scales. The ratio is 1:160. In other words a scale N train is one sixtieth the size of a real train. N scale is a little over half the size of HO. HO scale is 1/87. This scale is preferred by individuals who don’t have a lot of room for their layouts or those who love expansive scenery. While the n scale trains are intended to take up less space in model layouts they also have more detail then some smaller sizes. Rail cars and supplies that are smaller will contribute to a layout size that is easier to maintain and easier to add onto later on. Another advantage of using N scale trains is that the smaller the rail car and tracks, the larger and more beautiful the scenery will appear around them.
Unlike O scale, HO scale, and standard scale, some of which have been around for a full century, the N scale trains only came into prominence in the 1960s. The name N scale stands for nine millimeter because it has a gauge of 9 mm between the rails. Gauge refers to the size of the track on which the model trains operate. It is a measure of the distance between the rails of the train tracks. Code on the other hand refers to the height of the rail.
N scale model trains are just one of the many different aspects of building model trains and scenery. It is entirely up to the train building to use whatever train size is best for them. No matter what the size of the train is, the thrill is all the same.
Bachmann is a world-renowned brand name when it comes to making model trains. The company has been involved in the production of high quality trains for over 150 years. The company is centered in the United Kingdom of Great Britain but they market their trains to collectors all over the world. The collection of trains produced by the company is extremely diverse and it is lauded for having some of the most interesting varieties for hard-core model railroading enthusiasts. Collectors of Bachmann model trains include the young, the old, beginners and professional collectors.
Today you will be able to find Bachmann trains in a five different scales. The HO Scale, N Scale, O Scale, On30 Scale and what they call the Large Scale. They also produce a membership model called "The Williams by Bachmann" which is only available to Platinum Club members. These cars are limited additions and are part of the membership package for the Platinum Club. The limited addition "The Williams by Bachmann" cars come in the affordable O-gauge. The annual membership cost $35 and other benefits include:
o Limited Edition Platinum Club Car
o 2009 Williams by Bachmann catalog
o Quarterly e-mail newsletter
o New product announcements by email
The Large Scale includes the world known "Thomas & Friends" model train collection. The faceplates for all the characters in "Thomas & Friends" are available as an individual purchase or as part of a package set. The "Thomas & Friends" train collection is a great way to get your kids or grand kids involved in model trains. Bachmann has "Thomas & Friends" as their featured product this month. A starter set will run you about $385.00.
The price of acquiring Bachmann model trains varies considerably. The least expensive of these train sets will cost you about $59.00 whereas the more detailed steam engine trains will set you back more than $900.00. The steam engine trains come in every scale except the O. You need to understand that this is just for a basic track, a locomotive and a few basic cars. The real cost of collecting and building a model railroad train collection is in the elaborate detail of your bench work.
Bachmann has been building model trains since before World War II and it is the pre-war lines that are of the highest quality of craftsmanship and therefore of the highest value in collector circles. The postwar lines, although still well built and with nice detailing, pale in comparison to the pre-war line in their value. However, for someone just starting out in collection of model trains the economical value of the post-war line will make a beginners collection much more affordable. Although the older trains have more collector value one is required to put in a considerable amount of time and effort in order to restore their appearance. This is why beginners are advised to stick with the more recent models. Leave the restoration to the more experienced model railroading enthusiasts.
The pre-war model toy trains by Bachmann are considered to be vintage items since they date back to before World War II. In fact World War II is considered to be the turning point when it comes to model train collecting. Experience model train collectors solely seek to acquire pre-war trains. The design material, attention to detail and just the pure age of the items are why experienced collectors seek out these vintage trains. A hardcore collector will tell you that there is no substitute for the look and feel of a vintage train. The sound and spirit of the real-world train is truly captured in the Bachmann pre-war trains.
Although the Bachmann post-war model trains are built with superior technology and are still very authentic in nature they do not hold the sentimental value and the collectible value of the vintage age. However, the new trains are extremely popular with children and new collectors. Either way, Bachmann has been an integral part of model train history and will continue to lead the way in the future. Happy collecting.
Michael Weston is a model train expert. For more great information on Bachmann Model Trains, visit http://www.modeltrainsexpert.com.
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Model Railroading Enthusiast Robert Anderson Reveals Quick & Easy Ways To Design, Build, Maintain & Repair Your Very Own Realistic Model Railroad...Without Making Costly Mistakes! Ideal for beginners & experienced model railroaders in Ho, Oo, N, O, Z etc.
70% Commission - Model Trains Enthusiast Albert Coleman Reveals The Secrets That Will Save You A Massive Amount Of Time And Money When Designing And Building Your Own Model Train Layout