Hornby Train Set

The World Of Bachmann Model Trains

Author: David Blackburn

Most every model railroader will have heard of Bachmann model trains as they have been around for quite some time. They have not been around for nearly as long as such powerhouses as Lionel, but they are much more respected for the quality of trains they produce. Whereas Lionel produces trains, which are suitable for children and families, the Bachmann line is respected as a train for the serious model railroader. What many people may not know is the bumpy road the company went through to get to the place it is now. In fact, many people are not even aware the company is no longer an American owned company.

Bachmann model trains are made for every age group and every level of model railroader. The basic Bachmann line has been decreed by many as being mostly a toy. This is just fine for the children and families that enjoy the trains they buy. These trains do not have many of the details you will find on some of the luxury brand produced by the company, but they have more details than many of the trains that are sold at the same price level. These are good starter trains for many just getting started in model trains, as they will get the feel for how to treat and care for a model train.

Moving up from the base line of Bachmann model trains is the silver series. This line of products started as recent as 1992 when it was originally called Bachmann plus. The Bachmann plus line was created when production of the line was moved to China from Philadelphia. In 1997, the base line was improved for detail and material and the mid range line was renamed the silver line they sell today. The object of the line remains the same as when it was first created; to reach the middle demographic of people who want a top of the line model train, but cannot afford it. This way they can have better detail without having to spend more money.

The Spectrum line of Bachmann model trains was only recently included in the actual catalog of trains sole by the company. The idea was to keep the luxury line completely separate in order to make it appear as a company onto itself. This is the same basic concept the car companies use when selling you an Acura instead of a Honda. It allows Bachmann Industries to put much more detail into the train and charge a lot more money at the same time. As the product built it's own reputation, it was included in the main line to sell more trains.

Going into the future, Bachmann model trains can now be controlled with Digital Command Control (DCC). So far, only the HO scale trains have the DCC onboard with the N scale trains are DCC ready. Having DCC allows the model railroader better control over the individual trains when running more than one train on the same track. It also allows there to be less relay time between giving commands and having them be received and implemented by the train itself.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/the-world-of-bachmann-model-trains-1428659.html

About the Author

David Blackburn has had a passion for Model Trains for over 20 years. His enthusiasm and knowledge on the subject of model trains can be found in his writing and his new book. For more great information on Bachmann model railroads visit his site at: http://www.modeltrainsadvice.com. While you are there don’t forget to sign up for his FREE "Secrets To Successful Model Railroading" Mini Course.