Electric Train Sets
Tips on Buying Your First Model Train
Lionel Trains
Selecting the right model train can be a difficult task for the newcomer to the model-railroading hobby. There are so many trains out there, each in a different size. In this article, I am going to discuss a couple important things to know before buying your first model train. 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. When you purchase a model train, it has a “scale” associated with it. The scale informs you of the size of the train. The majority of model train enthusiasts love the HO scale because it takes limited space for a regular setup and the detail is nice. If space is at a premium for you, look into N scale trains. These can be run in the smallest of spaces. One of my favorites is the O Scale, sometimes called O Gauge, trains. These are big boys and come with great detail. If you have at least a 6 foot by 6 foot space, you can setup a decent O scale layout. 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. Generally, a complete kit will lack the frills associated with model railroad setups like scenery, but you can be 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. Also you can run other trains on the track. Just make sure to buy the same scale as your setup. For example, if you bought a HO scale set, you want to buy HO model trains in the future.
Some Things to Look For
When buying your new model train, look to see if it is DCC enabled. This is a big one. You want to have your train DCC enabled, if possible, so you can run other trains at the same time with ease. Should you decide one train is enough for you, this is less of an issue, in my opinion. However, you never know. 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 have to buy what they have. The Internet is full of model train stores.
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. While hobby stores are ok, a store dedicated to model railroading is far superior in every aspect. The probability of finding someone who really knows about model railroading in detail at a general hobby store is minimal at best.
Tips On Buying A Train Set Online
Alaska Steam Work Train Set
The internet is one of the best things that has happened to model railroading in recent years. It’s never been easier to find a huge selection of trains and accessories, from anywhere in the world.
No longer do you have to wait weeks for your local train store to order something for you. Now you can just hop onto your favorite model train website or even eBay and order the exact piece you want, all within minutes.
There is a downside to the internet’s reach though. You don’t always know exactly what you’re getting and it’s easy to be fooled by an inaccurate description or misleading images.
These issues can be avoided, however, with some simple guidelines.
1. Buy from a reputable dealer
2. Buy brands and products lines that you have some experience and are familiar with
3. Ensure the website offers a good return guarantee
4. Use a credit card or some other payment method that provides you with protection in case of a problem
If you are unsure of a website’s reputation, check with other people who are interested in the hobby. There are plenty of discussion groups and forums for model railroaders where plenty of people visit regularly.
Chances are good that someone has had experience with the website you’re looking at – good or bad. People are generally quite happy to share their experiences, especially if they had a bad one.
If you can’t find anyone who has dealt with a particular website before, it may be best to find an alternate source. They could just be new, but they could also be some kind of fly-by-night operation that may be difficult to deal with.
Most model train enthusiasts will continue to buy more equipment and accessories over time. For this reason, you will likely be developing a relationship with the vendors you like. Spending a little time to research them up front will ensure that you have a good experience and will find a vendor that you can continue to deal with for years to come.
