Archive for November, 2010

Toy Train Sets For Toddlers

November 27th, 2010 dwalton
... for Toddlers – Train Sets

Lego Duplo Toy Building Sets - Perfect Toys For Toddlers To Five Year Olds

Author: Bronnie Vaughn

Lego is a Danish toy company that got its beginnings in the 1930's. Originally, and still, based in Denmark, the brand has been acclaimed worldwide for its line of construction toys. In 1934 the products, as well as the company, officially became known as Lego. The Lego toy building bricks come with various themed and designed series of sets. Most of these sets cater to a particular age group. One of the well known series is the Lego Duplo line.

The Lego Duplo bricks are well built and nontoxic. The larger pieces allow toddlers to use the bricks and blocks with their own little hands. Building instruction manuals come in every box set. If the instructions are lost, any parent or older child can visit Lego online and get guides in helping the children build their three dimensional designs.

The Lego Duplo sets are specially made for toddlers with ages ranging from 18 months to 5 years. The Lego pieces' size is eight times larger in volume than the average Lego brick. The dimension is also twice the height, length and width of the conventional Lego blocks. The concept was first introduced in the year 1969, available in only four basic colors: red, white, blue and yellow. Throughout the years, the collection has evolved to different Lego brick sets including train sets, dinosaur lairs, farm and ranch themes and more. Lego Duplo has also partnered with popular children's program and cartoon franchises such as Bob the Builder from the famous TV series. These four feature Bob, Scoop and all Bob's friends. The Thomas & Friends series of toy sets are very popular as a result of partnering with the famous Thomas the Tank product line.

Lego Duplo is certainly one of the best selling toy collectibles for younger kids of all time. The eleven sets in the Lego Bricks series are often cited as being among the all time best selling toys for children ages 2 to 5 years old! This is where the kids can begin getting their building experience. There are three different sized Brick Box sets and other basics to get the beginning brick inventory as well as city, farm, and zoo settings and buildings.

Other Duplo series of sets include:

  • Lego Ville is the largest of the Duplo series with 31 sets making up everything a person would expect to find in your average town.
  • Duplo Castle series consists of only three sets but these include such exciting things as a fire breathing dragon and a knight on a horse.
  • Duplo Dino also has three sets that come with different dinosaurs and cave men.
  • Duplo Trains sets are favorites with the youngsters and the eight sets include everything from the Train Starter Set to the Deluxe Train Set and everything in between.
  • Princess Castle sets are perfect for the family's little princesses with a pink castle, royal stables. A prince and even horses and a princess with real hair to comb.

Once the kids experience Lego Duplo toys they will be eager to move on to more challenging Lego projects. They can have years of fun using these wonderful toy building bricks!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/lego-duplo-toy-building-sets-perfect-toys-for-toddlers-to-five-year-olds-795049.html

About the Author

Originally from Texas, I now live in the mountains of Arizona. I have 2 online stores the 1st of which is http://bikertshirtsandtanks.com which sells a complete line of Harley Davidson and other biker apparel. The 2nd store is http://toybuildingbricks.com and offers all Lego toy building sets.



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Toy Train Sets Sale

November 27th, 2010 dwalton
Flickr: The Green Giant LEGO ...

Building the Ultimate Toy Train Collection

Author: Kevin D

Toy train and model railroad enthusiasts across the world are not shy about showing off their collections. In fact, a great deal of time goes into building their ultimate toy train collection and layouts. Serious collectors know how much time and energy goes into their creations. Weather you are a new collector, or someone who has been collecting toy trains for many years, the same goals are shared when it comes to both train layouts and design.

The joy each train collector experiences when building their display is like no other. Train collections usually feature vintage trains manufactured by some of the best in the industry, such as Lionel, Marklin, Fleischmann, and Rivarossi. The possibilities are endless when it comes to designing train layouts, ranging from O Scale and HO Scale creations, to N Scale and G Scale creations.

Each model train enthusiast has their individual preference when it comes to collecting various train sets, train cars, and locomotives. Year after year collectors from across the world gather at train shows, train expos, and other train meets. The chances of discovering rare and classic model train collections are quite good when attending these events, so these events are something collectors thoroughly enjoy and look forward to.

The average person would not know the core differences in each train design, but the serious train collectors generally know what to look for. Many years of experience will only help enthusiasts obtain more and more useful knowledge. The knowledge which is obtained will usually have a clear effect on how their train layouts are built and designed.

When building and assembling a train layout, there are a series of steps and preparations that most builders follow. These may include choosing the train track layout, choosing the specific type of train gauge to use, and choosing the type of method in which the track will be secured. Builders will then decide what type of models and landscaping fit best with the type of train layout being built. Many common types of scenery will include mountains, bridges, as well as an assortment of towns, cities, and villages.

It's quite amazing how unique and creative many train layouts turn out once all the hard work is completed. And some of the best train collectors and train layout designers will often explain that their layouts are never complete, simply because they continue to modify and build additions to each and every single one of their creations. When a collectors' trains are on display and showcased for all to see, one of the biggest rewards he or she can receive is a simple smile from their audience taking interest in the model train layout shown before them.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/collecting-articles/building-the-ultimate-toy-train-collection-760024.html

About the Author

Publisher of Train Sale, a highly active and updated model railroad website featuring toy trains for sale. Popular trains for sale include Lionel, Marklin, Rivarossi, Fleischmann, IHC, and more.



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Toy Train Sets For Kids

November 26th, 2010 dwalton
Wonder La Bangalore, India ...

The Ever Popular Lego Train Toy Building Sets

Author: Bronnie Vaughn

Bring up the word “Lego” to adults and they will start to think back to the childhood days spent at home building youthful masterpieces made out of plastic Lego building bricks. This is a proof that Lego has been a part of many peoples childhood years going back to the colorful plastic interlocking bricks were patented in 1958. From houses to vehicles, to shops and train sets, Lego has had them all in its ranks. Even the newer generations of children have developed a fascination with Legos. Although they cannot compete with Lego Star Wars on gaming systems such as Playstation 3 and Xbox, Lego toy trains remain to be in the list of “toys to buy” during holidays and special occasions. Of course, it has helped that Lego has partnered with companies that have allowed popular franchises to be given the Lego transformation. What’s astonishing is that even with the emergence of new Lego sets, the classic Lego train sets remain a favorite. It might even be surprising that trains sets are particularly very popular to grownups that consider themselves train enthusiasts. Building trains out of Lego pieces has proved to be a fun pastime activity to alleviate stress, and of course, bring out the inner kid in every adult.

It’s quite amazing that Lego has endured the changing times highlighted by the onslaught of high tech toy products. Customer loyalty has played a big part in Lego’s survival, but more than that, it’s the continuous reinventing that has made Lego stand firm, even when faced with fierce competition. Take the case of Lego train sets and train station sets. The early models were introduced in the late 60’s and ever since then, the trains have undertaken various makeovers to keep up with the times. This means that the newest models you see today are products that have had some inspiration from the older models of yesterday. Train enthusiasts will even go so far as to create their very own train models using Lego building bricks to build them. If you see Lego train models being displayed in exhibits or trade shows, don’t expect to see them, as such, in the toy sections of your favorite toy store. Lego aficionados utilizing advanced Lego construction techniques most probably made them. Having said that, anyone can make his or her own train set from scratch. The important thing to remember is to start from the basics. People who were inspired by the classic models of station trains made the awe-inspiring Lego train sets you see on public display.

Lego may be selling pre-designed train sets but what hardly any people know is that through Lego Digital Designer and Lego Factory, they can design there own trains. It’s a simple process that can have amazing results. The trick is to know the fundamental laws of Lego construction. Add a little creativity and inspiration and you’re off. Of course, having plenty of patience and enthusiasm will go a long way. It takes a great deal of skill to build complex train sets, but with a lot of practice, you can find yourself getting very good at building even the most sophisticated train layout.

As an added bonus, and what’s really cool, is that using Lego toy building sets can be a great bonding activity between kids and their parents!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/gifts-articles/the-ever-popular-lego-train-toy-building-sets-654846.html

About the Author

Originally from Texas, I now live in the mountains of Arizona. I have 2 online stores the 1st of which is http://bikertshirtsandtanks.com which sells a complete line of Harley Davidson and other biker apparel. The 2nd store is http://toybuildingbricks.com and offers all Lego toy building sets.



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Ho Scale Bachmann Model Trains

November 26th, 2010 dwalton
model trains - a set on ...

Trains HO - Model Trains HO Scale Fun

Author: Gaza,K

Train HO scale are great for your personal enjoyment. There are many different layout designs to choose from, as well as the ability to create your own. There are many different websites that can help you pick one, with photos, and videos submitted from real hobbyists. You can also find E books and other books you can order to help you design a layout that is just right for your setting. There is also software available, with many different layout designs. The nice thing about software is that you can customize the layouts to fit your own desires, and when you are finished with a layout, the software extrapolates a list of required materials you need to build it.

Now, no matter what kind of layout you choose, the most important thing about a train HO layout is a firm and sturdy base. These are called benchworks, and they are what holds the entire weight of the layout, train, cars, as well as all the power needs for your hobby. Without a sturdy benchwork you are going to be in trouble. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your base.

There are generally two different kinds of benchwork. One can be purchased already made, and these have some advantages. One is that they can fit together nicely, so you can expand your layout if needed. Because they are easily taken apart from one another, they are ideal for hobbyists who like to set up their Trains HO at shows. They can be set up in different configurations, and secured together. The other way to go is by building and creating your own. These are constructed on a more permanent basis, whether in a spare room, unused area of you garage, or wherever else you are planning to have your model train hobby.

Usually train HO scale benchwork is made from 3/8"-1/2" plywood, and 2"x4" wood materials. You really need to sit down and think about the size your layout is going to be, and how it will be set up. A decent layout is going to take up two full size sheets of plywood, and these can be set up in a square, or end to end, in an L or T shape. Once you figure out how many pieces you will need, and how it will be set up, you need to frame it out, and include support braces so the middle won't begin to sag. Then you want to set up the legs, with cross supports to add stability. Now the height of the benchwork can be up to you, but you want to consider back strain when you are setting up your layout, and how high it will be when you are sitting. You can even add storage shelves underneath, for extra train related items.

Once you have this all put together, it is important that you set up your layout without securing it first. You need to be able to move pieces around for drilling holes for wiring, and also be able to run your train on the track a few times to check to make sure it will run smoothly. You need to secure your layout in layers, including special features like waterfalls, river scenes, etc, so that any pumps can be concealed. You also need to make sure that if you are including any tunnel features that you have some kind of access in case something happens and your train gets stuck.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/trains-ho-model-trains-ho-scale-fun-2304403.html

About the Author

Model Train Enthusiast and Collector for 20 Years.

http://modeltrainsho.net



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Toy Train Sets

November 26th, 2010 dwalton
The Toy Train, Darjeeling ...

Spending Quality Family Time With Toy Train Sets

Author: Claire Rigby

If you want to spend some time as a family, one of the best ways to do it is with toy model train sets. There is a difference though with toy trains, and not all of them are 'toys.' there are many different styles of trains, and they come in a variety of sizes, or scales of trains. If you have smaller children, you can purchase toy train sets that are made from wood, or hardened plastic, and are completely manual. You and your kids can set up a number of different layouts, and push the little train cars around the tracks.

There are also model trains sets that are crafted to resemble the real thing. Many of these sets are also ideal for family play, and some common scales are G, O, and HO. G scales are large and can easily be handled by smaller children, but while there are many different kinds of layout designs, these trains are large, and take up a lot of room. You usually see this sized train sets in abundance around Christmas time, and are a great addition under any tree. Some of these are electric, but many battery operated models are quite safe for smaller kids.

Model trains have been popular for well over a hundred years, and were first made from wood, in Europe, and had pull strings for kids to drag them along. It seems that toy trains have developed just as fast and unique as their real life counterparts. They are now made by several different companies, with Lionel, Hornby, and Bachmann being among the tops brands.

The nice part about newer models of toy train sets is the fact that they are relatively easy to put together. They come with simple snap together track systems, color coordinated wiring, and you can have them up and running to play with your family in just about an hour, depending on the layout. These Ready To Run sets come with everything you need to get started, track, train, and power supply, and are fun for the whole family.

Now while you can buy just about any kind of train set for your family to enjoy, there are some things to note when enjoying family time with your toy model train sets. Even the wood sets have some small parts included, and precautions should be taken when letting your smaller kids play with them. Scale model trains, ones that have electric power, should only be used under adult supervision.

You can buy toy model train sets just about anywhere. You can buy them from toy stores, hobby shops and mass marketing merchandisers. If you want to most variety, the best place to start is online. The costs for some of these are quite reasonable, and some sets are under fifty dollars. Serious train sets start at around 0, but there are some that are well above that.

So if you want a great way to spend quality time with your family, why not consider buying a toy train set. There are classic models to choose from, especially around the holidays. If you aren't sure if this is the kind of hobby you and your family can get into, there are many websites you can use for checking out if this sort of thing is in your future.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/crafts-articles/spending-quality-family-time-with-toy-train-sets-1753319.html

About the Author

The author, Claire Rigby owns Anara Toys which had an amazing range of wooden trains and accessories including wooden train sets.



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Bachmann Model Trains Catalogue

November 25th, 2010 dwalton
... model trains railwayana

What's so special about Bachmann model trains?

Author: Philip Redfearn

Bachmann model trains are widely known as some of the best in the model train community. Bachmann model trains have been in operation for many years and have therefore developed a great following amongst long time model train enthusiasts. It is for these reasons that Bachmann model trains remain popular and keep producing greater model trains in many different scales and for different sizes of track.

 

The Bachmann model trains company are now one of the largest in the model trains industry. They produce a range of fabulous model locomotives and trains, which is why they are so special. People from all aspects of the model train world love to use Bachmann model trains because they are great for beginners and highly experienced people alike.

 

It doesn’t matter if you are running an O scale train track or an N scale; you can find great trains and locomotives to place and run on your track. Not only that but these trains are some of the most detailed you can find from any manufacturer. The attention to detail is incredible, which is why they are so popular.

 

As you know, model train hobbyists are fanatical when it comes to the detail on their trains. They want everything to be perfect and resemble the original real life train exactly. This means it needs to be detailed down the finest point.

 

For experienced model train enthusiasts, the N scale from Bachmann model trains is perfect. Many of the most experienced model train enthusiasts wont use anything other that Bachmann model trains. They are known as some of the most accurate and detailed of all the model trains on the market today.

 

Bachmann model trains have a long recorded history of building high quality model trains. Some of their model trains are very expensive to buy but you can also find them at low prices.

 

One example of this is the HO scale. As you know, the HO is the most popular in the entire model train community. This is the scale that most people now use and it is still growing in popularity. Bachmann made a clever move by creating and building model trains for this scale. As such, now you can find a huge range of model trains in the HO scale.

 

This means that they are less expensive than those in the N scale or the larger O scale. It makes it more affordable for people to buy the Bachmann trains and this has also increased their attention in the market.

 

Model trains on the HO scales are perfect for people who don’t have the room for the larger scales. Not only this, but they still provide great detail without being too small. The HO scale can comfortably fit into most spare rooms, while also creating a very interesting track layout.

 

As the HO scale is so popular, Bachmann focused on this scale and created many lines of model trains for it. This led more people to know and appreciate Bachmann model trains, which obviously increased their popularity. This is one of the reasons that Bachmann model trains are so special today.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/whats-so-special-about-bachmann-model-trains-1404467.html

About the Author

Philip Redfearn is an avid model train enthusiast. For more great information on model trains, and to sign up for a free Ultimate Model Railway Secrets 11 lesson mini-course, visit http://www.ultimatemodelrailway.com


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Bachmann Model Trains Thomas

November 25th, 2010 dwalton
my bachmann model of thomas ...

Number One Seller Bachmann Model Trains

Author: Steve Barnett

The Bachmann brand is the largest seller, in terms of volume in the world. Bachmann Industries is a Bermuda registered Chinese owned company head quartered in Hong Kong. The company was founded in 1833 by Henry Carlisle known as the Carlisle's firm. In 1899 the company merged with a Philadelphia firm run by Henry G. Bachmann. The company changed its name to Bachmann Brothers by 1902. When WWII started they made sunglasses for the United States Army Air Force.Bachmann Brothers was awarded the Army-Navy "E"  Award for their war effort.

In 1966 N scale model railroading became popular, so Bachmann entered the train market in 1968. The rail cars were packaged in white jewel cases. The company then entered the HO scale market in 1970. In 1973 they changed the jewel cases to black and in 1978 they changed the logo to the one used today and packed the train in blue jewel cases.

In 1988 a GE 44 Ton Diesel was released under the Spectrum name which at this time was considered a totally different company. Bachmann introduced a Spectrum HO scale 2-8-0 Consolidation in 1988. This model was selected as "Model of the Year" by Model Railroader magazine readers. The Spectrum name was considered part of Bachmann product line by the year 2000.

Large scale train sets called the Big Haulers was produced in 1990. These trains were G scale with the most famous being the Emmet Kelly Jr. circus train which was introduced in 1993. The Williams Electric Train company was purchased in 2007 giving them the ability to make O scale trains.

Bachmann moved the product line to China in 1992. Later in 2001 they began producing anOn30 scale This was an O scale running on HO track. The company introduced Thomas and Friends in 2002. Several Garden scale models of Thomas and Friends were released. In 2006 they partnered with Lenz Elektronik, GmbH and turned their concentration toward Digital Command Control. Today the HO Spectrum line and DCC on board with most of the N scale line being DCC ready.

Bachmann produced a product after the war that is still a popular accessory for American Flyer and Lionel trains called Plasticville USA. This was model kits of buildings, stores, and homes, for O scale model trains. Later they expanded the Plasticville line to include HO and N scale. In the 1960's the company produced Nature Craft Kits, Mini-planes, Slot Cars, and military models. They also produced a toy robot called "Toys of Tomorrow. The Slot Cars, planes and robots were dropped.

In 1981 with the declining interest in model railroading the company was sold to the company that manufactured their product the Kader Group.  The Kader Group changed the name of the company to Bachmann Industries and used this name to expand worldwide. The company changed the packaging from jewel cases to paper boxes with cellophane windows. The company retooled the manufacturing process starting in 1982 changing the gears in their diesel locomotive from metal to plastic. All of the cars were manufactured in China by 1992. Remember when modeling trains always have fun.

Thank You,

Steve Barnett

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/crafts-articles/number-one-seller-bachmann-model-trains-2980328.html

About the Author

Steve Barnett is a model train expert. For more information on model trains visit http://www.trainmodelingbook.com/the-bachmann-model-trains-story/.



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Bachmann Model Trains Australia

November 25th, 2010 dwalton
... Australia’ Limited Edition

Australian Silver Koala Coin - A Silver Keepsake From Down Under

Author: Christina Goldman

Do you have an interest in collecting silver bullion coins with exotic animals as their icons?   These collectors would find a true prize in the Australian Silver Koala issued by the Perth Mint of Western Australia.

This mintage is a follow-through of the highly successful introduction of the Australian Silver Kookaburra by the same mint in 1990 and the Australian Kangaroo in 1993 by the Royal Australian Mint.  Having all three in coins should be a superb combination for a thematic animal-inspired silver bullion collection.

The Australian Silver Koala was first struck two years ago by the Pert Mint, which is famous for coins of excellent workmanship and innovative designs.  The 1997 first year of mintage was an instant success as the koala whose image the coin bears is a well-loved creature the world over.

Numismatists of course will tell you that it would be erroneous to call this coin as the "Australian Silver Koala Bear," although there is a certain rhyme to this term.  The koala is scientifically classified under the genus Phascolarctos, which is rooted from the Greek word "phaskolos," for pouch, and the misleading "arktos," for bear. The koala, however, is a marsupial, an arboreal or tree-dwelling animal found only in the tropical forests of Australia.

The jungle, nonetheless, is no place for the Australian Silver Koala, but would be more at home at some treasure chests.  This collector's delight is a 1-oz coin made from 99.9% pure silver in a koala design that changes each year.

The latest edition has the image of a young koala clinging to a tree branch.  The Perth Mint struck the 2008 mintage of the coin with a different design which features that of a mother koala perched on a tree with a baby Phascolarctos at her back.

This 2008 mint also has a gold coin edition in addition to the silver standard, firmly establishing that indeed there are lots of treasures to be found Down Under!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/collecting-articles/australian-silver-koala-coin-a-silver-keepsake-from-down-under-855203.html

About the Author

You can find great prices and selection on the fabulous Australian Silver Koala Coin at: ==> http://AustralasianCoins.com



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Bachmann Model Trains

November 24th, 2010 dwalton
model trains - a set on ...

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.



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Bachmann Model Trains Usa

November 24th, 2010 dwalton
USA TRAINS G GAUGE WORK ...



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