Posted by Chris Scarborough | Posted in Model Railway | Posted on 07-10-2011
Tags: Arts and Crafts, arts,, crafts, entertainment, family, hobbies, Hobbies and Entertainment, Hobbies and Home, home, Home and Family, Model Railway, model trains, Model Trains and Hobbies, Train Collecting, Trains and Crafts
Selecting the right model train can be a difficult task for the newcomer to the model-railroading hobby. There are many trains to choose from, and many sizes. In this article, we will discuss a few things you should consider before you go out and make your purchase. I know firsthand how that very first trip to the model train store can feel. After reading this article, you will have a better understanding of what to look for.
Space and Scale
Before you even think of building a model train set, you need to know just how much space you'll have for it. Model trains come with a "scale." The scale informs you of the size of the train. Many train model enthusiasts have a preference for the HO scale, because it only requires limited space without skimping out on detail. If space is a challenge, the N scale may be the answer to your problems. These trains require the smallest spaces to run. One of the best ones is also the O scale, sometimes known as O Gauge. These are very large models, and they are highly detailed. They would require at least a layout of 6 feet by 6 feet. O scale model trains and accessories are typically more expensive, but they are worth it in my opinion.
Requirements
It is possible to setup your own model railroad piece by piece or to buy a complete kit. While a complete kit rarely comes with extra scenery props, you can have it up and running in minutes. If you end up buying a ready-to-run complete set, you can add-on to it easily by simply buying the parts you desire. You can even buy extra trains to run on the track. Just make sure to buy the same scale as your setup. If you set up a set that is on a HO scale, every train you will buy from that moment on will need to be of the same scale.
Things to be on the lookout for
Your model should be DCC enabled. This is very important. You want to have your train DCC enabled, if possible, so you can run other trains at the same time with ease. If you only want to run one train, then it doesn't matter. But, in case you change your mind, it is definitely a good idea. Your model train store will only have a very small fraction of the model trains and accessories that are out there. Don't feel like you should buy what they have if you can't find what you want. There are plenty of other choices online.
Finally, I recommend that you look for a model train store in your area and go talk to them. You can learn a lot very quickly by talking with someone in person who cares about the hobby. You can try hobby store, but it would be best to go to a store that specializes in model railroading. The probability of finding someone who really knows about model railroading in detail at a general hobby store is minimal at best.
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