Train sets are available in every scale, and they make it easy to have trains up and running in a short amount of time. As your knowledge and modeling skills develop, you can build a larger model railroad. Tips on layout planning, benchwork, track, wiring, and scenery can be found in books published by Kalmbach Media. For now, let’s take a look at train sets, the gateway to model railroading.
Where to buy
Train sets can be found at department stores, toy stores, and hardware stores, but you’ll typically find a better selection at your local hobby shop. See the dealer directory in the back of Model Railroader magazine or visit.
Besides selection, there are other reasons to buy your set from a hobby shop. First, good hobby shops service what they sell. Second, hobby shop employees, especially those in stores that specialize in model trains, are better able to answer questions you may have about train sets and getting started in the hobby. Third, hobby shops carry items you’ll need to further enhance your set, such as rolling stock, scenery materials, buildings, and vehicles
Selecting a set
Most train sets come with a locomotive, three to five freight or passenger cars, a power pack, wires to connect the power pack to the track, and enough track to make a simple circle or oval. Some sets may also include turnouts and a variety of accessories, such as a bridge or tunnel, telephone poles, trees and vehicles.
An important consideration to make when purchasing a train set is who it is for. If the set is for a child, let his or her age determine the scale you select. If the child is under 8 years old, S, O, and large scales are ideal. The equipment in these scales is larger and easier to handle, and it’s designed to withstand some rough use. Children older than 8 typically do fine with HO scale trains.
However, if the train set is for the entire family, any scale, Z through large, is fine. If space for your family train set is at a premium, consider a Z, N, or HO scale set.
A lifelong hobby
Once you’ve purchased a set, put the track on a sheet of plywood, a tabletop, or other hard surface. Carpet fuzz and dirt from the floor can hamper smooth railroad operation.Model railroading is the world’s greatest hobby, and a train set is one way you can experience the exciting world of model trains. We hope you’ll spend countless hours operating your new set, and that you’ll find a lifetime of enjoyment from model railroading.
