Big Skies & Iron Rails

We are currently working on this section. For the latest in Big Skies & Iron Rails videos please visit our Trains.com Video section: https://www.trains.com/vid/railroading/series/big-skies-iron-rails/ […]

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Seven ways to uncouple model railroad train cars on track

Backtobasicsuncoupling1Jul2003

Seven ways to uncouple model railroad train cars on tracks: Automatic knuckle couplers look great, and they make coupling cars extremely easy – you simply push them together. However, when it comes to uncoupling, far too many of us rely on the hand from the sky method (also known as the 0-5-0 switcher), reaching in […]

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In The Workshop Trailer

In the all-new series playing exclusively on Trains.com Video, you’ll discover scores of expert techniques and useful tools for making your model railroading efforts easy, more efficient, and even fun! […]

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January 2023

A black and red locomotive runs through a forested section of track against a blue background

Also in this issue: ON TRAINS.COM, pg. 6 The latest features on our website FROM THE EDITOR, pg. 8 Extra how-to from the how-to magazine NEWS & PRODUCTS, pg. 12 Hobby industry news ASK MR, pg. 18 Questions on decorating B&O diesels STEP BY STEP, pg. 22 How to model fir trees DCC CURRENTS, pg. 60 […]

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Five ways to clean track

Photo of two track cleaning blocks on HO scale layout

In this article we’ll look at five ways to clean track. If you want to get a lively debate started amongst model railroaders, ask them the best way to clean track. Some prefer abrasive blocks, like the Bright Boy, while others turn to any number of cleaning solvents, homemade or commercial cleaning cars, or off-the-shelf […]

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Interviews and Q&As Trailer

Get the inside scoop! Hear relevant info, insights, and straight talk from Trains.com staff, Kalmbach Media contributors, industry experts, hobby manufacturers, and influencers from all walks of life…but only when you get Behind the Scenes as a Trains.com Unlimited Member! […]

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Hobby shops, trains, and holidays just go together

Hobby shops trains hand holidays chile watching locomotive

Everyone knows hobby shops, trains, and holidays just go together. Right? I was recently talking to the owner of my local hobby shop, Cool Trains in Lancaster, Pa. Our chats usually kick off with an update around how business is going. I shouldn’t be surprised that his response is that summer is slow, but that […]

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Big Skies & Iron Rails, Season 2 Official Trailer

Did you think railfan/professional photographer Tom Danneman would end his unique treks to the American West after one year? Not a chance! In this new phase of his explorations, you’ll enjoy an even more scintillating look at expansive western scenery and the full scope of trains running through it. Look for a mix of short-form, […]

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Big Skies & Iron Rails, Season 2 Official Trailer

Did you think railfan/professional photographer Tom Danneman would end his unique treks to the American West after one year? Not a chance! In this new phase of his explorations, you’ll enjoy an even more scintillating look at expansive western scenery and the full scope of trains running through it. Look for a mix of short-form, […]

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Where can I locate a track plan?

Ask Trains.com: Sometime during this past year I found an article and track plan by lain Rice. The story was titled "Versatile Room-Size Layout," and the name on the track plan name was Chicago & North Western and Vienna & Carthage. Do you have any way to locate the article and track plan?

Cody helps a reader locate a track plan. Find Model Railroad Planning 2012 and How to Build Small Model Railroads on the Kalmbach Hobby Store. This track plan can also be found in Model Railroader’s track plan database. Are you looking to learn more about your model railroad, or do you have questions about full-size […]

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