Posts Tagged ‘model railroading’

N Scale Model Train Track Plans

April 11th, 2011 dwalton
Scale Model Railroad

Let's Take A Look At The N Model Railroad Scale

Author: Clint Spille

Many people think that the N model railroad scale is smaller than they can deal with. N is a small train, only 1:160 the size of a life size engine, and half as small as the more popular HO scale.

It's true that this size shouldn't be used by children under 5 at any time, and from 5-12, under adult supervision. It is a harder unit to deal with for people with large hands, poor eyesight, and arthritis, but other than that, anyone else can easily handle this scale.

There are many advantages with N scale trains. The first thing right away is that many of these models run on batteries, with no need to have them plugged in.

While these don't perform as well as electric models, you have less to worry about. Because these trains are small and lightweight, they are ideal for people who like to run long strings of passenger or freight cars.

One of the biggest advantages of N scale size is that hobbyists who don't have a lot of space, or like to take their trains and display them at shows, can have at it with this scale. It is perfect for small spaces, since many layouts can be set up on tables less than 8'x4,' and in fact can be fully set up on spaces quite smaller.

These can easily be transported from one show to another, without having to take them apart all the time. You can store them in smaller spaces, and pack up nice and neatly.

Anyone who says there aren't very many accessories hasn't had very much experience with this scale. It's true that you may only find a limited amount when going to a local retailer, but there are many basic sets available, even at these outlets.

You can also find this scale at toys stores, and mass-marketing retailers. You will find an abundance of websites, dedicated to these trains, and track styles, but also for scenery, trees, shrubs, and figurines.

There are whole sets of accessories offered, from landscaping, buildings, and figurines, all just right proportions to the size of the locomotive and cars.

The holidays bring lots of excitement, and with these trains, the holidays are king. There are many sets just made for Christmas time, with buildings that play music, real working lights and even festive locomotives and trains.

Some of these steam replicas even emit real puffs of smoke and have festive bells and whistle sounds, all operated on batteries, or easily plugged into any outlet. Some of these festive sets are even offered for under 0, and in some cases, just around fifty.

A simple web search will reveal lists of thousands of pictures and video of sample layouts, from actual train enthusiasts. You can plan your track strategies from these, or sit back and think of you own imaginative layout designs.

There will be no trouble finding locomotives, cars of all descriptions, and enough scenery to last a lifetime. It won't take long before you are up and running, commanding your trains to your heart's desire.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/lets-take-a-look-at-the-n-model-railroad-scale-1617799.html

About the Author

Clint Spille is a model trains enthusiast who enjoys blogging about the World's Greatest Hobby. Stop by his blog where you can read his many articles on the model railroading hobby or watch the videos he provides on topics such as model railroad track plans, model train scale and much more!


Posted in Uncategorized Tags: , , , , , , , , 2 Comments »

Model Railway Scenery

April 7th, 2011 dwalton
The Great Western Railway ...

How To Weather Model Train Scenery

Author: David Blackburn

When it comes to weathering, most people only consider the trains and not the model train scenery. If you are purchasing buildings from a store, you will want to weather them as well in order to keep with the appearance. After all, it will look odd for the weathered train to be traveling through a pristine environment. If the train is traveling through the city, the train and the city should both look just as worn by smog and graffiti artists in order to make it look as real as possible.

The first thing you can do in order to weather model train scenery is to use a mixture of paint thinner and a dark gray paint. This paint should be mixed into an airbrush gun in order to spray a light coat of paint that looks like it has been accumulating for years. The best way to apply the paint is in wide sweeping motions side to side. Make sure the room is well ventilated before attempting anything of this sort. For best results, do not try to finish the weathering all at once. Apply one coat, allow it to dry and then apply a second coat. Use as many coats as you feel necessary to create just the right look.

Another city element you may want to add to your model train scenery is graffiti. You can buy different pieces of graffiti from the hobby shop, or online. The graffiti you buy will be in a decal form, so you may want to spray it with the same formula you used on the building it will be on. This will cover the edges and give the graffiti the worn look it usually has in the city. Graffiti is also a good addition to trailer cars. It gives the appearance the cars have been docked in the city rail station for a period of time.

Rail stations that are a part of desert scenery should have a look as if they have seen many different sand storms over the years. A good way to accomplish a sand worn appearance is to shoot sand at the structure. Mix together fine grain sand and water in the bowl of your airbrush gun and use it to blast the structure. Sanding the structure may be too harsh as you can simply scrape the paint off rather than adding a look of wear. Another good element in these conditions is to airbrush on a medium brown color to the metal roof in order to give the rusted over look expected in the climate.

Creating realistic looking model train scenery is an endeavor every model railroader has. It is a skill, which has to be learned over time in order to get it exactly right. The best way to learn is to find as much information as possible about weathering and creating your own structures. Practicing what you learn is the ultimate way to learn. Have fun and explore new ideas you may have in order to decide which methods work best for you.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/how-to-weather-model-train-scenery-1547287.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 model train scenery visit his site at: http://www.modeltrainsadvice.com. While you are there make sure you sign up for his FREE "Secrets
To Successful Model Railroading" Mini Course.



Posted in Uncategorized Tags: , , , , , 10 Comments »

Model Power Train Sets

April 4th, 2011 dwalton
... Power Train City layout

A Quick Look At Model Train Sets

Author: Clint Spille

There are probably as many model train sets as there are different kinds of trains. It is not hard to find them online, or at your local hobby shop. From exact replicas of antique locomotives, fancy, futuristic mono rail trains, and just about everything in between.

Many of these sets not only include the engine, cars, tracks on transformers, but also all the scenery and buildings you will need to start a basic layout. One very unique and cool model train sets is called the New Bright Sleigh Bell Holiday Express G.

This set is decorated in bright holiday colors, and includes the engine and coal car, a passenger car and caboose. It also has 75 individual lights, plays Christmas songs, and has the sound of a bell or whistle.

It includes a water tower, 12 curved and 8 straight tracks, the transformer which can easily power all this set has to offer. Other New Bright add on cars will NOT fit this set, however there are more Holiday Express accessory cars available.

While the transformer will power up to 80 feet of track, if you decide to purchase the optional musical clock tower, you may not have enough power to run all of it at the same time. While this unique set lists as much as 5, it can be found in many places for well under 0.

Another of the popular model train sets is the Bachmann Digital commander Deluxe HO Set, model number 00501. This set has two trains, and includes new DCC On Board technology, that allows you to be able to operate both trains separately, but at the same time.

The exclusive E-Z Command digital control systems gives separate control over speed lighting and the direction of both train. This train set includes both a EMD FT locomotive, (Santa Fe,) and the EMD GP40 (Union Pacific) engine.

One terminal rerailer, 3 freight cars, and a caboose. It also includes enough track to make a 47x38" oval track, and of course the command center, power pack and magnets.

It also includes a DVD E-Z command instruction video, and illustrated manual. While the list price is close to three hundred dollars, may retailers offer this set for well under two hundred.

This is just a small sampling of all that is available for model train sets. This doesn't even include any of the accessories and kits offered.

You have town sets, which there are may varieties, as well as many scenery packs, and even trestle packages, enough to set up a mountain pass layout. If you want other ideas on layout designs, you can easily find videos and photos of many an enthusiasts creations.

It is really only limited by your budget and imagination. There are many communities of model train enthusiasts, and in many areas there are even museums, and shows set up just for model trains.

There are even contests held to see who has the most elaborate model train sets and set up, and it isn't limited to the indoors, and many bigger sets are used in outdoor garden and landscaping settings.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/a-quick-look-at-model-train-sets-1617770.html

About the Author

Clint Spille is a model trains enthusiast who enjoys blogging about the World's Greatest Hobby. Stop by his blog where you can read his many articles on the model railroading hobby or watch the videos he provides on topics such as model trains ho scale, toy model trains and much more!



Posted in Uncategorized Tags: , , , , , , , 10 Comments »

Collecting Lima Model Trains

March 20th, 2011 dwalton
... Model Train Classics, Plus

Creating Realistic Scenery For O Model Trains

Author: David Blackburn

In order to create the most realistic scenery for O model trains, you will need to get familiar with the different methods of cutting and shaping extruded foam. There is an art form to using handsaws, wire brushes, and box cutters in order to create the most realistic scenery. Cutting your Styrofoam will help to lay the groundwork for the scenery, but you need to be familiar with the different methods used in order to paint and cover the scenery in order to make it look like it is alive.

Most people will use paint like burnt umber in order to paint what will look like dirt. This will serve as the base for the landscape in most terrains. If you are looking to have a snowy mountain scene, you may want to use a dark grey paint instead. The paint will have to dry before you can move ahead with any part of the project. Make sure the paint completely covers the Styrofoam. Use two or even three coats of paint if necessary to completely cover the base foam. Many people will use cheap house paint if they are looking to cover large layouts. You will quickly see the quality of the paint does not matter as much as the ability to cover the layout evenly.

Once the paint has had a chance to dry, there are several different ways you can add vegetation to the layout. Because of the size of O model trains, many opt to buy moss sheets from a nursery. These sheets can be either glued into place, or simply laid on. They are preferred because they are real vegetation, which will last a long time without decaying. If you spray the moss with a fine mist of water, it will actually grow a little bit while on your layout.

Lichen is a great way to add shrubs to your scenery. The more popular way to add these to the landscape is to use some diluted schoolhouse glue. Simply mix the glue with water and then dip one end of the lichen. Use the glue in order to stick the lichen into the exact spot you would like for it to be in. The glue will dry clear, so you will not have to worry about it being seen. Another way you can add lichen to a layout is through the use of fine wire. The wire is wrapped around the middle of the lichen and then stuck into the Styrofoam.

Another great way to add realism to your O model trains scenery is to add small tress to it. This is accomplished through the trees you buy from the hobby shop. While there, you should also buy the blue polyurethane that will be poured into the riverbed you have created with the help of your wire brush. Adding some boats to the side of the river is a great way to add more realism to the environment you have created. Have fun in your mini world creating realistic scenery for your O model trains and let your imagination run wild.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/creating-realistic-scenery-for-o-model-trains-1572614.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 o model trains visit his site at: http://www.modeltrainsadvice.com. While you are there make sure you sign up for his FREE "Secrets To Successful Model Railroading" Mini Course.



Posted in Uncategorized Tags: , , , , , , , No Comments »

Lima Model Trains

March 19th, 2011 dwalton
Model Trains Interactive ...

A Brief History Of American Model Trains

Author: David Blackburn

In order to tell the history of American Model Trains, it is necessary to tell the history of the S scale. This is the scale that is sold by the company today. They have staked their reputation on being able to create model trains in a sector, which is all but forgotten by too large a section of the model train industry. Getting to know this niche market may cause you to want to invest in an S scale model train today.

The S scale is about half way in between O and HO scale. It is characterized by a 1:64 ratio. The model is fairly large as far as model trains are concerned. Because of its size, it is fairly durable. It can handle being mistreated by those who not know much about model trains like children and beginners. The larger size allows the production companies to add more detail to the trains in order to boost the amount of realism as the train powers around the track.

The history of American Model Trains starts in Britain where the S scale first got its start. When it was created before the turn of the century, it was known as the H-1 scale in order to represent its size as half that of the #1 scale. The name was changed in 1937 when CD Models started marketing the track that would be suitable for use in the 1:64 scales. The last change in the name came when the American Flyer brand started selling steam-powered locomotives.

American Flyer Trains got its start as a toy model train company, which was bought by AC Gilbert in 1937. When the company first started selling the trains, they ran on a 3-gauge rail. In 1942, the company started producing a 2-gauge track that is pretty close to what is being used by the same scale trains today. The American Flyer Train business failed in 1967, but the Lionel Company bought the name in order to sell the same scale and using the tracks that the company designed. Lionel still sells the American Flyer brand in their catalogs and online.

The majority of American Model Trains which are produced today are made to look and feel just like the old American Flyer trains. This will bring back a lot of memories for those who remember the trains chugging around the track on Christmas morning. Even if you do not remember, the trains offer a great classical looking train you can enjoy as it powers down the track.

The train you buy today will undoubtedly have a lot of history attached to it. Seldom are the trains going to have such an American heritage as the American Model Trains do. No matter if you buy the train for the history or for the realism, you are sure to enjoy the way it looks as it rolls down the tracks. Make sure you buy the train, which will allow you to have the most fun. Having fun is the name of the game in this and any hobby.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/a-brief-history-of-american-model-trains-1583922.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 American model trains visit his site at: http://www.modeltrainsadvice.com. While you are there make sure you sign up for his FREE "Secrets
To Successful Model Railroading" Mini Course.



Posted in Uncategorized Tags: , , , , , , , 6 Comments »

Toy Train Track Layouts

March 18th, 2011 dwalton
Toy Train Barn - Information

Toy Model Trains FAQ

Author: David Blackburn

Those looking to get started with toy model trains have many different options to choose from. There are different design features and model scales to make a decision harder to come across. Naturally this will cause you to have many questions. I have written out a list of frequently asked questions, and their answers for you.

(1)    What Does Scale Mean? A scale is the letter used to designate the size of the model train. These usually represent a specific size ratio, which range from 1:220 ratio to a 1:8 ratio. The most popular scales are the N, Ho, Z, and G scales.

(2)    Which Scale Has More Detail? The larger the scale, the more detail the train will have. While Z scale may be beneficial to those who have minimum space, it is very difficult to put a lot of detail into such a small amount of material. N scale models have a decent amount of detail for the amount of money you end up spending.

(3)    What Exactly is a Gauge? A gauge for toy model trains is a reference for the size of the track. Many people will interchange scale with gauge, but they are very different for the experienced modeler. The gauge will measure the width between the rails of the track in millimeters. They can range from 6.5mm to 148mm.

(4)    What Gauge Track Do I Need? The gauge of the track will depend on the scale train you purchase. The standards in tracks will allow you to purchase a track, which will fit your train. Keep in mind there are variations in the sizes of scales depending on which country they are produced in. Your track may be off by a millimeter or two, but should not affect the ability to drive your trains.

(5)    What is a Layout? The layout is the environment your train will travel through. You can create anything from landscapes to cityscape depending on what you are trying to accomplish. There are many different pieces you can buy to complete these realistic environments.

(6)    Which Model Trains Are The Best? The best model train manufacturer is largely subjective. Those who buy toy model trains tend to be very loyal to one specific brand. They will tell you one brand is superior to another. The best advice is to look at the different trains available and choose the one you like best regardless of manufacturer.

(7)    And what is Weathering? Weathering is where you make your train or layout appear as if it has been affected by the environment. For a cityscape, you can add environmental features such as oil, grease and smoke. For a desert environment, you can make it appear as everything has been scratched by sand storms.

(8)    How Much Am I Likely To Spend? There is no limit to how much you can spend on toy model trains. With infinite add-ons and design features, you can spend a lot of money on the hobby if you are willing to. A good idea is to set a budget and then shop with your budget in mind. You can get money saving ideas from trade shows if you need them.

The more you get into train modeling, the more questions you will come up with. Asking questions of those with more experience is a great way to learn tricks and tips which will allow your toy model trains to be everything you want for them to be.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/toy-model-trains-faq-1321646.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 toy model trains 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.



Posted in Uncategorized Tags: , , , , , , 4 Comments »

Model Train Track Gauge

March 13th, 2011 dwalton
HO GAUGE MODEL TRAIN TRACK ...

Model Train Information On Scale And Gauge

Author: David Blackburn

For those just getting started in train modeling, there is some model train information you need to know. Many people will use the terms scale and gauge as if they are interchangeable. It is important to remember there is a difference between the two terms. The term scale is used in order to describe the size of the train itself. Gauge is used in order to describe the length between the rails used to put the train on. While there is a standard track size used for each train scale, you do not want to call the track size a scale. Knowing this will help you to be able to speak the lingo used by those who are experienced in train modeling.

Important model train information to keep in mind is the size train you will be purchasing. The size of the train is indicated by the scale of the train. The smallest scale is the Z scale, which is a 1:220 ratio. This scale has become popular by those who have small apartments or homes as it allows them to have a decent layout without it taking up a lot of room. One of the most popular sizes is the N scale model train. The size of the train is large enough for you to be able to enjoy the details of the cars without it taking up too much space. The largest train scale for private use is the 1:8 ratio train. These trains are for those who would like to be able to ride their train.

No list of model train information would be complete without facts about the track you will be using. The track is one of the most important aspects of getting started with a model train. Without the track, you will not be able to do anything with your trains. The gauge of the track will depend on the size of your train. The tracks can usually be purchased by the size of the scale train you are using. The track gauges are standardized in order to make sure your train will ride smoothly along the track.

Standardization is a bit of model train information, which is important to know. The standards in train track gauges allow you to buy a track your train can travel along. It is important to remember there are slight variations in the ratio for every train scale. While this means your train will not fit exactly on the standard track, it will be able to run smoothly along the track. It is acceptable to have a slight difference between train wheels and the track. Make sure the track is not too small, or you run the risk of the wheels hitting the ties of the track.

Interesting model train information is where the names of the scales come from. The G scale train is one, which has been named because of the size of the train, but has been nicknamed because of where the train usually runs. G scale was originally named because Gros is the German word for big. In more recent times, G scale trains have become known as Garden trains. This is because the size of the train allows it to be waterproof and thus operate outside in most any weather.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/model-train-information-on-scale-and-gauge-1310658.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 model trains 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.



Posted in Uncategorized Tags: , , , , , , 10 Comments »

Model Steam Trains For Sale

March 7th, 2011 dwalton
... Steam Locomotives in 1/8

10 Interesting Facts About Toy Model Trains

Author: David Blackburn

There are many different interesting facts about toy model trains. The more you get into the hobby of model railroading, the more you will find out. Those just getting started will be interested by some of the things experienced railroaders have come to know over the years. Below you will find a list of ten interesting facts about model trains.

(1)    The Truth About G Scale. Many people have come to accept G scale coming from the word garden. G scale actually comes from the term Gros which is a German word for big or large. The reason why so many people call them garden trains is because they are used as outside trains. Layouts include plants and grass from the gardens people have in their homes.

(2)    History of Model Trains. Toy model trains started out as novelty toys for children. These toys followed shortly after trains were used as modes of transportation and delivery. These toys did not have very much detail. As time went on, adults became interested in the model trains and an entire industry was born.

(3)    High Society Model Trains. In the Victorian era, there were many different social clubs, which met to talk about model trains. It was considered highly exclusive to have your own model train set with an elaborate layout. The prices of the trains put them out of the hands of common people making it trendy to own them.

(4)    World War One. Before World War 1, the majority of toy model trains were made in Germany. This became a problem in a time when Germany became the enemy of the world and all production was halted. This allowed many companies like Lionel to become the powerhouses in model trains they are today.

(5)    Track Materials. The material used to make the tracks have changed over the years. One of the most popular materials has been brass. This has given way to aluminum and stainless steel as options many people prefer. One of the most popular materials to use is a nickel alloy blend, which costs less while still being light and conductive.

(6)    Weathering For Detail. A very big design feature many train modelers include in their layouts is weathering. This will give the train and the layout the appearance of realism most people are looking for. By adding stains, or wear, the entire design will appear as if it has been affected by the conditions.

(7)    Why N Scale is Cheaper. The N scale is one of the most popular scales of toy model trains. The popularity along with the size makes it very easy to mark down. Using less materials and being easier to add details also play important roles in allowing manufacturers to reduce the cost of the finished product.

(8)    The Future of Model Trains. Model trains have undergone many changes over the years from being able to only run one train to running several. It used to take a highly skilled conductor to manage multiple trains. Now with computers, it is easy to manage several trains on the same track at once.

(9)    Trains You Can Ride on. The 1:8 ratio model train is not something everyone has space for. It has become popular for those who have the money in order to have fun with their children, or simply to have a model that is easier to work on. Being able to operate the model with coal or propane allows you to have the live steam most modelers prefer.

(10)    Train Clubs. No matter what scale train you own, there is probably a club you can join of others who prefer the same scale. These clubs are recommended for anyone regardless of skill level. They are great places to show off and get new ideas from.

There is much more information available about toy model trains. You are sure to discover something you will want to pass along, as you get more familiar with the hobby itself.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/10-interesting-facts-about-toy-model-trains-1410288.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 toy model trains 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.



Posted in Uncategorized Tags: , , , , , No Comments »

Train Layouts Thomas

March 3rd, 2011 dwalton
... layout upper part ho scale

The Top 10 Model Train Shops in Pennsylvania

Author: Larry Truett

For the past year I've been compiling a list of model train stores for my model railroading website.  These shops all look like a lot of fun to visit, but what are the most popular?   Here is a list for the great state of Pennsylvania.

The most popular model railroading shops (based on online chatter) in the state of Pennsylvania are:

10. Strasburg Train Shop in Strasburg

9. Cappelli Hobbies in Philadelphia

8. Neely's Train Shop in Altoona

7. Modelers' Depot in Hopwood

6. Action Hobbies in Langhorne

5. Hobby Express in Cranberry Township

4. Esther's Hobby Shop in Pittsburgh

3. Len's Train Shop in Irwin

2. A. B. Charles Hobby Shop in Pittsburgh

...and the most popular shop for model trains in Pennsylvania is...

1. Bill and Walt's Hobby Shop in Pittsburgh

Hobby shops not quite making my top 10 were Brentwood Station in Pittsburgh, Bussinger Trains in Ambler, C. T. McCormick Hardware in Zelienople, Central Keystone Hobbies in Avis, CoolTrains Toys and Hobbies in Salunga, English's Model Railroad Supply in Montoursville, Gene's Trains and Hobbies in Duncansville, Grzyboski's Train Store in Moosic, Henning Scale Models in Lansdale, Hobby Headquarters in Meadville, Imperial Train in Imperial, Jerry Quinn Classic Trains and Toys in Coatesville, Jim's Train Shop in Homer City, Ken's Trains in Glassport, Main Line Hobbies in East Norriton, Modellbahn Ott Hobbies in Gilbertsville, Nicholas Smith Trains in Broomall, Niedzalkoski's Train Shop in Jeannette, R and B Hobby Center in Tunkhannock, Singers Hobbies and Crafts in Wellsboro, T and J Train Junction in Danville, The Train Gallery in Pittsburgh, The Train Shoppe and Hobby Center in Wilkes Barre, The Underground Railroad Shoppe in New Castle, Tommy Gilbert's Hobby Shop in Gettysburg, Toys On The Square in Hummelstown, Winkie's Toy and Hobby in Lititz, and  Ye Olde Train and Christmas Shoppe in Boyertown.

So lots of great model railroading shops from all over Pennsylvania in the top ten, but the Pittsburgh area had all of the top five.  As usual, the top spot went to a store with both a fantastic local shop and a thriving website.

When in Pennsylvania be sure to visit some of the excellent railroading museums including National Toy Train Museum in Paradise, Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania in Strasburg, Steamtown National Historic Site in Scranton, and Western Pennsylvania Model Rail Road Museum in Gibsonia.  Also in Pennsylvania are some teriffic model railroad displays, including the Choo Choo Barn in Strasburg and National Christmas Center in Paradise.

I compiled this list by searching for the hobby shops listed on a number of search engines and ranking them by the number of web pages, discussion forums, photos, videos, etc that are available online.

I further screened this list to include only pages that mentioned model railroading. See a complete list of Model Train Shops in Pennsylvania at www.ModelTrainsWithLarry.com which has complete contact information for each shop including an address, phone number, and map to the store.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/the-top-10-model-train-shops-in-pennsylvania-1443775.html

About the Author

I'm a freelance PHP and MySQL programmer living in the San Carlos neighborhood of San Diego with my wife and our 3 cats. I enjoy hiking, reading, gardening, watching too much television, and other nerdy activites.



Posted in Uncategorized Tags: , , , , , , 9 Comments »

Lgb Train Sets

February 28th, 2011 dwalton
holiday train set 2008 lgb ...

LGB Model Trains Through Time

Author: David Blackburn

A look at LGB Model Trains through time can provide an interesting insight into the history of the world during the times each model was developed. This is because the onset of these model trains being offered to the public was a reflection of how trains affected the lives of people. It also a reflection of how people romanticized real life passenger trains at the time. At times in both Europe and America passenger trains have been marks of both technology and sophistication.

The LGB Model Train originated in Germany in the year 1910. The trains were invented by a known inventor named Ernst Paul Lehmann. LGB Model Trains are the most popular brand in the world for G scale model trains. The G scale or “garden train” as it is known is 1:22.5 scale. This is one-twentieth of the size of a real train. For a while the LGB was one of the few companies who even produced G scale model train.

The name LGB is an acronym for Lehmann Gross Bahn. Translated from German it means Lehmann Big Train. From the beginning LGB Model Trains quickly established itself as the leader in the world for G scale model trains. The company has long been the most popular producer of the G scale amongst G sale model train enthusiast. LGB Model Trains have been designed so they can be left outdoors year round. This is because they are waterproof and built with great durability.

Then LGB Model trains made their way across the pond to America. By the 1980's LGB Model Trains were being made in California. When the trains began being produced in California so did the trend of collecting garden trains or G scale model trains.

In the 1990's the LGB multi-train system was developed. This is where two trains can be run on just a single track. This has drastically increased the options for LGB Model Train layouts. It also makes it possible to reduce the space being used for LGB model train layouts.

Today if you are looking to collect LGB Model Trains there are few accessories to choose from. To date there are 150 freight trucks and passenger carriages which have been produced. This is far less than the offerings of other model train brands.

In addition to there being few LBG accessories to choose from they are also more expensive. Although there are few items in the LGB line and the price of them is higher than other model trains you can find them almost anywhere model trains are sold. It is not difficult for a model train store to obtain the parts you might be looking for in the LGB line if it is not already on their shelves.

Although the company has had recent financial struggles, LGB Model Trains are still being manufactured in both Europe and America. New models of the LGB Model Trains are being developed today. The company seems to still have many pages left to write in regards to their legacy.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/lgb-model-trains-through-time-1557153.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 lgb model trains visit his site at: http://www.modeltrainsadvice.com. While you are there make sure you sign up for his FREE "Secrets
To Successful Model Railroading" Mini Course.



Posted in Uncategorized Tags: , , , , , , 4 Comments »
« Older Entries
Newer Entries »