May 26th, 2010 
dwalton 
The Gift Of Model Trains - How To Choose A Model Train To Give As A Gift
Author: Henry Michael
Model trains have been in existence for over a century. Ever since real, full size trains became prevalent, train companies have made scale models of their locomotives and rolling stock. These were first sold as a marketing tool to generate interest in their trains, but soon garnered interest as children’s toys due to their small size. Toy model trains are not exactly the same as real scale model railroads and depending on your interests, both make great gifts for the young and young at heart.
Toy model trains are lighter, less detailed, and usually more inexpensive than real scale model railroads. They are produced as toys and can be made of plastic or metal, and are generally a little less rugged than the real thing. Those attributes make them a good choice for smaller children who may not have the interest, patience or skills to assemble and operate the more expensive scale models.
Another thing to keep in mind in giving the gift of model trains is that they run on electricity. Shorter tracks and the “toys” we have been talking about are generally fairly simple to hook up. There will be a power unit that plugs into the wall, a transformer to reduce the voltage, and wires that run and connect to the track at some point. For these trains that is pretty much the extent of the electrical connections. For more sophisticated models and longer tracks, the electrical connections can be more complex and in some cases include DCC (Digital Command and Control) systems and multiple trains.
Giving a more sophisticated scale model railroad set to pre-teens will probably require some help from an adult, while toy model trains can be assembled and operated by those as young as 8 or 9 without much supervision. Most parents and grandparents however will want to “play” with the trains with their children and grandchildren though, since this is a hobby that appeals to young and old.
Price is another consideration when giving model trains as gifts. Small model toy train sets can be purchased for a couple of hundred dollars ready to roll out of the box from manufacturers like Lionel and Bachman. Those manufacturers and others also make much more expensive sets where the sky is the limit on costs depending on the scale, whether you purchase a ready to roll or a kit, how much scenery you like etc.
Last but not least, scale is important when deciding on which model trains to give as gifts. Consider how much space these train sets will take up when they are assembled and operating. N-scale is popular with those who don’t have much space, while HO-scale is the most popular scale in the world and offers more choices and accessories.
Toy model trains make great gifts and could lead to a lifelong hobby. If you are considering giving such a gift, get some good advice from model train hobbyists who will be eager to share their knowledge and love for this hobby.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/the-gift-of-model-trains-how-to-choose-a-model-train-to-give-as-a-gift-1822076.html
About the Author
Henry Michael is a model train enthusiast who enjoys sharing his knowledge and experience with others to help them get the most out of this exciting hobby. For more information on toy model trains, visit my website at http://www.modeltrainenthusiast.com/ and learn how easy it is for you to get involved with model railroading. It will help you to avoid mistakes that most beginners make. If you are more experienced, it will give you a different perspective on things you may be doing or would like to do.
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