The hobby of model trains and railroading requires a fair amount of knowledge. First, you have to know where you will be setting up your display. Then from there you have to decide what scale will best fit your designated area. If it’s a large area, then you don’t want too small of a scaled train set. On the other hand, if it is a small space then you will want to purchase the smaller scale versions.

To help you know what you are looking for here are a few tips on determining the scales sizes of model trains.

-Every model train has a scale assigned to it. This is so you can judge the size of it in comparison to a real train. For example 1:100 would equate to the real train being 100 times bigger than the miniature model.

-Every model train has a letter assigned to it. This is so the scale size is easy to determine. The very smallest model you can find is the “Z” scale. This scale is 1:220. Using the example as above then this means the real train would be 220 larger than the scale model. This is ideal if you have limited space. New comers to the hobby always feel more comfortable with this one, until they make up their mind that becoming a model train collector is what they want.

-the “N” is 1:160 scale size. This is slightly larger than the “Z” scale. You are still forfeiting some of the intricate detail of the life size train. It is perfect for the hobbyist who wants to display his collection in a real life setting of laying out the tracks and scenery. The “N” scale is one of the more popular ones.

-Moving up in size takes us into the 1:80 scales. We are now into the HO scale train models. This is probably one of the best because it’s the middle line of the scale system. The train details are much more obvious and the size is comparable for an average location.

As far as looking authentic many train enthusiasts feel that the “O” scale depicts its best. When you are operating trains in this scale its hard not to imagine that you are not right there operating this train. Their scale size is 1:48. To set up a track for this scale you would probably want to plan to allot a 4×4 foot area.

There are many other larger types of scales on the market. As a hobby though, you will most likely be happier with the ones we have just outlined.

If you are a newcomer to the world of model railroaders, there are a few things you will need to know to get you started on the right track (no pun intended).

First, you will commonly hear the term HO scale. Probably this one has been suggested that you start with if it’s your first investment. The HO means half zero. Which means they are half the size of the “O” scale referring to model trains?

The HO scale model trains are very realistic. They are very closely designed as to the real locomotives. Then you can add to your set with the huge variety of train cars and tankers as well. Adding your personal design touch is really fun and easy. Once you have completed your set then you can start into building your track work and scenery. You can devise some very realistic settings. With this model size you will be able to add many curves to the track. This isn’t as easy with other scale models.

If you utilize the digital sound that you can purchase to go with your set you will find it adds to the realism. In fact, if you close your eyes and listen you would think you were right in a train stations. You can also add control centers to your collection.

Buying what you need to start your collection is easy. There are many hobby shops that specialize in hobby train sets only. You can also shop online as well but there are some precautions to take here. In fact, there is an article in this series that you can refer to for the information.

When you become a model train hobbyist the only thing, holding you back is your imagination. So let your creativity run wide and enjoy your new adventure. Choosing the HO scale model is the best step to take to ensure a great time.

It’s easy to shop for HO scale model trains and train parts. Every good hobby shop carries a wide variety of things you can purchase for your train set. Of course the Internet is full of places to buy items you cannot find elsewhere. There is an article on this site about buying model trains online, you should really read it.

Model trains and model railroading is a very enjoyable and rewarding hobby. You really feel like you are creating something special when you start to create a model train layout. HO scale model trains are a great place to start with your hobby as well.

When you mentally plan on setting up your model train, you envision it as it would be in the real world. This means you must set the scene, so to speak. That’s exactly what you will want to do, once you have your track layout planned. The model train hobbyist has the added joy of being able to let their imagination run wild. They are numerous accessories available to you. The scenery options will provide you with any type of atmosphere you want your model train to partake in.

One of the decisions you will want to make when it comes time to purchase your scenery accessories, is a theme. You can choose from a country, city, or even a dessert setting. Then you need to think about whether it’s going to be a summer or winter scene. Don’t forget there is nothing stopping you from completely changing it whenever you start to grow tired of it.

One of the most favored is the farmland theme. People just love to think of a train rolling through miles of farmland with nothing in site but the animals grazing in the fields. Then there’s the anticipation of a stop over in a sleepy little country town along the way. Once you have painted your picture in your mind, you are ready for a trip to your local hobby store to do some accessory shopping.

If you don’t feel that you have any creative juices flowing in you, then just start with the basics. Better to do this then spend a lot of money on things you may not want. Many model train enthusiasts will start with some grass and a small assortment of animals. To this, you can always add the trees and houses. Then progress to the stations and people. Before you know it you have a complete, basic, but wonderful setting put together, No doubt this is going to boost your confidence and from there who knows where you will go.

Some of the things you have to consider when taking this project on, is the size of the area where your train display is going to be, meaning what space you will have to work with. Your scenery will be dependent on the way you have your track laid out. The other important factor of course is money. Once you start buying all the accessories, you are soon going to see the cost add up.

Probably the best advice is to stay basic. It’s easy to fall into the trap of overcrowding your scene. It’s not such an easy thing to do. There is so much available that it’s like a kid in a candy shop. You just don’t know what to pick first and when to stop. The whole idea here is to enhance your model train. You don’t want to overpower it with an excessive amount of scenery.

In 1946 Lionel produced an array of outfits similar to those in their prewar catalogs. Among these offerings were 23 sets. This broad spectrum of sets allowed Lionel to offer outfits at several prices, with the least expensive outfit retailing for only $24.95, while the deluxe outfit was $85.00.

1946 was the debut year of many new designs, unlike the previous year which only rehashed previously produced products. New motive power included the O-Gauge 726 Berkshire, produced by installing a 2-8-4 mechanism in a boiler based on the prewar 226E, and the all-new 6-8-6 Pennsylvania turbine. The latter was offered in O-Gauge outfits as catalog number 671, while those included in O27 outfits were numbered 2020. To the lower end of the line was a streamlined 2-6-4 with the catalog number of 221.

New freight cars were introduced as well. The 2411 “big inch” flatcar shared its die-cast frame with the 2419 and 2420 work cabooses. Also using die-cast frames were the new dump cars: 3451 for logs and 3459 for coal. The new 2460 crane also had a die-cast frame, and rode on a pair of six-wheel trucks. These trucks shared many components with similar six-wheel trucks used on Bakelite-bodied 2625 passenger cars and the die-cast-bodied 2426W tender used by the 726.

The engineering used to produced the 1945, 2452 gondola, was expanded. The 2454 boxcar, 2465 Sunoco tank car and 3454 operating merchandise cars included plastic bodies mounted on steel frames. The 2452 was continued, and joined by a second gondola, the 2452X, which lacked the brake wheels and barrels that adorned the 2452.

The low-end O27 sets contained many cars that were reworked from prewar designs, but as more of the year passed, increasing numbers of new products were produced, which were included in more expensive outfits. Following up on the success of the 1945 knuckle couplers was a spectacular new feature included in the better sets, smoke. Even more spectacular, but much less widespread, was Electronic Control-the latter available only in set 4109WS. As was the case in 1945, the 1946 outfit boxes were simple corrugated cartons with pasted-on labels to identify the set they contained.

The following are some of the most sought after Lionel O27-Gauge Outfits from 1946:

1400W–Lionel O27 Passenger Set– Retailed for $35.95

Included: 221 2-6-4 steam locomotive with operating headlight; 221W sheet-metal tender; two 2430 blue Pullman cars; 2431 blue observation; eight 1013 curved and three 1018 straight track; 1019 O27 remote control track section; UTC Lockon, 926-5 instruction booklet; 1041 60-watt transformer.

This set was a slightly more expensive version of the 1400 outfit. For the an extra $5.95 over the 1400, a 221W whistling tender replaced the 221T, and the transformer was upgraded to a 1401 60-watt unit. In excellent condition, this set is worth approx. $650. In like new condition this set is worth approx. $1400.

1407B–Lionel O27 Switcher Bell Outfit– Retailed for $37.50

Included: 1665 0-4-0 steam switcher with operating headlight; 2403B slope-back tender with ringing bell; 2560 crane; 2452X gondola; 2419 work caboose; eight 1013 curved and five 1018 straight track; 1019 O27 remote control track section; UTC Lockon; 926-5 instruction booklet; 1037 40-watt transformer.

This train was powered by a 1665 0-4-0 switcher, which was a revamped prewar 1662 switcher. Among the changes made to the locomotive were the installation of the new postwar trucks on the tender, and mounting Lionel’s new knuckle couplers on the rear of the tender and pilot of the locomotive. Mounting an injection-molded plastic cab and two injection-molded plastic toolboxes onto the die-cast body casting created for the 2411 flatcar crated the 2419 work caboose. A die-cast smoke-jack was installed on the caboose cab. The sheet metal 2560 crane car was carried over form the prewar line in its original colors of yellow cab with red roof. The 1946 production of these cranes included two-piece booms that were riveted together, and had the Lionel name molded in. In excellent condition this outfit is worth approx. $900. In like new condition this outfit is worth approx. $1500.

1421WS–Lionel O27 Freight Train–Retailed for $85.00

Included: 2020 6-8-6 steam turbine locomotive with operating headlight and smoke; 2020W early coal whistle tender; 3451 operating log car; 2465 Sunoco double-dome tank car; 3454 merchandise car; 2472 non-illuminated Pennsylvania N5 caboose; 164 operating log loader; ten 1013 curved and five 1018 straight track; 1019 O27 remote control track section; pair of 1121 remote-control turnouts; UTC Lockon; 926-5 instruction booklet; 1041 60-watt transformer.

While the 1419W provided the owner with a coal empire, the 1421W, also priced at $85, created a lumber empire. Trailing the 2020 steam turbine in the set was a die-cast 3451 log dump car to be used in conjunction with the 164 log loader. The 1964 log car carried five unstained logs and was rubber stamped in silver. The pick up shoes were wired with blue wire, and a pair of 1121 remote-control turnouts was included in order to incorporate the 164 in the track layout. A silver 3454 operating merchandise car added even more action to the train, which was surprisingly finished with a plain red, non-illuminated 2472 caboose. Like the 1419WS, many examples of this set have been found with a 75-watt 1042 transformer rather than the listed 60-watt 1041. This train in excellent condition is worth approx. $1500 and in like new condition is worth approx. $1500.

The following are some of the most sought after Lionel O-Gauge outfits from 1946:

2110WS–Lionel Three-Car Passenger– Retailed for $75.00

Included: 671 6-8-6 steam turbine locomotive with operating headlight and smoke; 2466W early coal whistle tender; three 2625 heavyweight Pullmans; eight OC curved and five OS straight track; RCS uncoupling/operating section; 167 whistle controller; UTC Lockon; 926-5 instruction booklet.

To create a premium O-gauge passenger set, Lionel revived it prewar Bakelite “Irvington” passenger car. The postwar incarnation of this car included newly designed six-wheel trucks with knuckle couplers–derivatives of these trucks were used on the 2460 crane and 2426W tender as well. The car bodies were painted maroon or reddish-brown in contrast to the prewar color of medium brown. To tow this passenger train, Lionel used its replica of the Pennsylvania 20-wheel steam turbine, the 671. This set in excellent condition is worth approx. $1750 and this set in like new condition is worth approx. $2975.

2113WS–Lionel O-Gauge Three-Car Freight Outfit–Retailed for $67.50

Included: 726 2-8-4 Berkshire steam locomotive with operating headlight and smoke; 2426W die-cast whistle tender; 2855 black Sunoco single dome tank car; 3854 operating merchandise car; 2457 illuminated caboose; eight OC operating merchandise car; 2457 illuminated caboose; eight OC curved and sever OS straight track; RCS uncoupling/operating section; 167 whistle controller; UTC Lockon; 926-5 instruction booklet.

Premiering in outfit 2113WS was the new 2-8-4 Berkshire steam locomotive. Though a 2-8-4 would be a staple of Lionel’s O-gauge sets into the 1960s, the 1946 model was unique. The smoke unit was based on a light bulb, the motor and reversing E-unit was mounted horizontally, and the handrails mounted with turned stanchions. The earliest versions of the 726 were equipped with what collectors refer to as the “large stack” motor. Later, the number of field laminations was reduced, resulting is what is known as a “short stack” motor.

The corrugated component box was unique to the 1946 locomotive. Sealed with prewar-style orange and blue sealing tape, the carton was marked with a manufacturer’s seal that stated, “GAIR BOGOTA CORR. & FIBRE BOX CORP.” The ends of the box were stamped with “No. 726″ in small lettering. The cars in tow were just as unique. Though cataloged as the common silver 2755, the tank car included was actually the scarce black 1855. The prewar semi-scale boxcar tooling was revived and modified with the addition of a roof hatch and internal mechanism to create an operating merchandise car, the 3854. This car is one of the most difficult to find items from the postwar era. In excellent condition this outfit is worth approx. $2000. In like new condition this set is worth approx. $3200.

2114WS–Lionel O-Gauge Three-Car Passenger Outfit–Retailed for $77.50

Included: 726 2-8-4 Berkshire steam locomotive with operating headlight and smoke; 2426W whistle tender; three 2625 heavyweight Pullmans; eight OC curved and five OS straight track; RCS uncoupling/operating section; 167 controller; UTC Lockon; 926-5 instruction booklet.

This was the most expensive passenger outfit offered in 1946. The three Bakelite 2625 Irvington passenger cars presented the 726 with a formidable load, especially those locomotives equipped with the later “short stack” motor. The die-cast tenders were equipped with die-cast whistle housings and, though initially stamped in white, ultimately were lettered in silver. In excellent condition the outfit is worth approx. $2500 and in like new condition is worth $4000.

One way you can know a true model train hobbyist is by the way he refers to his collection. He will never call it a toy train, it will always be a model train. To actually refer to a collector’s train set as a toy, is a bit of an insult, and they won’t be long in correcting you.

Toy trains are simple replicas meant for young children. They are not near as detailed or as intricate as the model trains are. Also, they are not nearly as expensive. Once you see some of the costs attached to these trains, you will no doubt agree that they are not for little hands. Toy trains are wonderful for children who have an interest in trains.

In fact, they can be a stepping-stone for more serious involvement in the future. The toy trains have nowhere near the detail that the model trains do. The model trains are exact replicas of the real thing.

Originally, the first toy trains were operated by winding them up, And then some were actually run by steam. This is referring to the 19th century period where they were popular in America and Europe. In time, they became more sophisticated in that they could change direction, and even puff smoke. They were fast becoming like the real thing.

The realism and detail found in the model trains of today is exquisite. There are numerous gauges and scales of these model trains available. In addition, there is no shortage on scenery and accessories. The hobby has grown to the point where the model trains can now be run by computers and set on a timetable. There is no need to be lonely when it comes to this hobby either. There is a large gathering of clubs and associations in almost any city always looking for new members.

The Tom Hanks film “The Polar Express” tells the story of a boy who boards a mystical train on Christmas eve headed for Santa Clause’s home at the North pole. He is of the age where he is beginning to question whether Santa Claus exists or not.In the film (which is based on the story written by Chris Van Allsburg) he comes to realise that it’s what he believes that counts.

A Polar express train set is an ideal Christmas present on four accounts.

1) The Polar Express is a Christmas story that reminds us of the magic of Christmas. The Polar Express train set, by virtue of it’s connection to the film and story, does the same. It allows youngsters to dream and believe in the magic of possibilities.

2) A model train set, such as the Lionel Polar Express is a precision made, engineering marvel. Playing with a model train requires physical and mental activity on the part of the child, something not many modern toys can match. If it stimulates the brain and requires the exercise of fine motor skills, then it has to be good for todays children!

3) It becomes a family affair. Polar express train sets can easily be turned into a family focus point where all the members spend time together building and playing with the model train. And isn’t that what Christmas should be about - family, sharing, fun and with a little education thrown in?

4)This is not a present that lasts a few days and then either breaks or is dispatched to the back of the cupboard. Lionel Polar Express Train sets are built to last and can easily become a family heirloom over time.

A model train set is also one of the few gifts that appeal to children and adults alike - many a toy train gift to a youngster has turned that youngster into a lifelong devotee of model trains.

It really does make sense to consider a polar express train set for a Christmas gift for somebody special - young or old. Climb aboard and evoke the spirit of Christmas!

They might sound pretty similar, but the fact is there is a difference between model train enthusiasts and model train collectors. It may be minor, but it does exist! A collector is usually more interested in the rarity of an item and may simply want to display it rather than actually operate a model railroad themselves.

Collectors exist for almost every object and hobby in the world. They’re the ones who drive the costs of that first-issue Batman comic through the roof and the ones who simply ‘must have’ that rare item that no one else really cares about just because of the fact that it is rare.

These people are the ones who help to set the value of the equipment as well as the standards used to grade it. They often spend a great deal of time and energy learning all they can about the history of various model trains and other related equipment. In reality though, many collectors aren’t happy to simply display their trains - they want to run them on an operating layout as well.

Companies like Lionel Trains even go so far as to sponsor collectors’ clubs for their past equipment. There are plenty of groups you can join if you’re interested in learning more about the hobby.

One of the things clubs help to do is set standards such as the following by which items are judged. Normally the product itself is graded separately from the box, and collector’s value highest items that are in a ‘new’ or ‘like new’ box that have never been removed.

Model Train Grading

* NEW - In original condition, most likely never used or even removed from the package.

* LIKE NEW - Good as new with no damage but likely removed from the packaging at some point.

*EXCELLENT - Excellent condition means there is no rust, dirt or damage but that the item has definitely been used.

* VERY GOOD - Could have a bit of wear but no damage, rust or other blemishes.

* GOOD - There may be some slight scratches as well as normal wear but no rust.

* FAIR - Slightly damaged, worn and possibly scratched but still quite usable.

* POOR - Serious damage, may not even work. Likely only used for parts to repair better specimens.

How Containers And Packaging Are Graded

* NEW - Original packaging in the original condition with no damage or fading.

* LIKE NEW - Original packaging, may have some slight wear.

* EXCELLENT - Like-original packaging with only moderate wear, no repairs.

* VERY GOOD - May have some tears or damage possible non-original tape but complete.

* GOOD - Some elements may be missing, some wear and possibly even minor mildew damage.

* FAIR - Pieces missing and tears and/or discoloration are possible.

* R - A replica, not the original packaging.

If you’re starting out with model train collecting, knowing your grades is important. Then pick the era and/or brand you want to pursue and get started.

If you are new to the world of model train building, you are probably a little confused about where to begin with your layout. After all, there is a wealth of information on all the different possible ways to arrange things, to set up the switching layout and the station layout and on and on. You must make decisions regarding the scenery and the types of trains too. Before you rush out to buy a large amount of model train pieces and scenery, or plan an entire town- even before you build the table for your model railroad set, you should decide what scale you want to work in. Scale will really determine what you need, the amount of space you will do it in, and what kind of scenery you will have.

In choosing a scale you will need to take into consideration several factors including budget, how well you will be able to work at a given scale, and how much room you have to house your model railroad. Scale refers to the size of the model in relation to the size of the actual object. For example, a model that is 1/22 is 1/22 the size of an actual train. Everything in a model railroad layout must be the same scale for everything to appear proportionally the same. You don’t want a tree that dwarfs a 10-story building. When you purchase pieces for your railroad, and they are all the same scale, you won’t have this problem.

The most commonly sold scales for model railroads are G, O, S, HO, N, and Z. A ‘g’ sized model is 1/22, the largest size of model that is commonly used. Contrast that with a ‘z’ model, which is only 1/220. In other words 1/10 the size of the ‘g’ model! The degree of hand-eye coordination that is necessary to successfully work with the railroad is obviously higher with a smaller scale. This means that larger train sets are usually a better choice for younger children. Also consider how well you will be able to see the model up close. Z scale trains are so small that if you don’t have excellent ‘up-close’ vision, it will be very difficult to do any detail work.

Another factor that you may want to think about is how easy or difficult it will be to find supplies in a given scale. The smaller the scale, the less trains, accessories and scenery there are available. Of course, many people who enjoy working with smaller scale sets consider this a challenge and end up making do or creating many things that one would otherwise purchase. A good ‘compromise’ set, that is perfect for a beginner, is an o scale railroad. The Lionel train sets that were so popular for children for many years are an ‘o’ scale. This size train is 1/48, meaning that it is 1/48th the size of a real train! It is easy to find a wide variety of ‘o’ scale trains, and accessories, as this is a very popular size of model train.

The founder of Lionel trains was Joshua Lionel Cowen. Born in 1877, as a boy Joshua was more interested in tinkering with mechanical toys than going to school.

In 1899 he patented a device photographers used to ignite flash powder using dry cell batteries to heat a fuse wire. Cowen later used a variation of this invention to land a contract with the U.S. Navy to detonate mines.

One day while walking through lower Manhattan, Cowen saw a wooden toy train in a store. He envisioned a toy train that would propel itself around a track. This vision became the foundation Lionel trains were built on.

The first Lionel train, the Electric Express, was not intended to be a toy, but a display for toy stores. Cowen and partner Harry Grant opened Lionel Manufacturing Company in 1900. The company first produced small battery powered electric fans.

The Electric Express was built for owner of the toy store where Cowan had seen the wooden train on display. The train was powered by the same motor that was used in the company’s electric fans. Soon after the battery was replaced with a 110 volt electric transformer. Eventually twelve models of the Electric Express were sold.

Soon more products were developed, including a “City Hall Park” trolley and a two foot suspension bridge. In 1906 Lionel added a third rail which carried the current and changed the spacing of the outer rails, which were the ground rails, to 2 1/8″ inches apart. This new track innovation was soon adopted by other manufacturers.

Lionel continued to gain popularity and soon began building passenger cars, coal cars, train stations and tunnels. In 1909 Cowen began calling his model trains ‘the standard of the world”. As more and more American homes were wired for electricity, model trains soon became a big business.

The company survived through the Great Depression and World War II, but fell on hard times in the 1950’s. By 1959 revenue had dropped by more than 50%. The company was sold to a group of businessmen led by Cowen’s great nephew. The company survives today despite several ownership changes since then.

Since Lionel trains inception, the company has sold over 50 million train sets. In 1999 Lionel trains were selected as one of the top 10 toys of the 20th century.