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I was just thinking about it yesterday, and you know,
it's been close to 30 years since I got my first model train. Since then I have been
building, collecting, and even selling them. It all began on Christmas when I received
my first Lima HO scale train set, which I still have today.
The Lima was my most prized possession, but over the years I always asked for more
model trains. It didn't matter if it was a birthday, Christmas, or helping my parents
do work around the house for an allowance, I was using every chance I got to get more
track, rolling stock, kits and more. I remember going to the hobby shop and dreaming
about owning every set there. The model trains o scale really caught my eye, too! I just had to figure out how to make enough money to do it.
Time Warp Ahead 27 Years
The fun and entertainment is still here today, and to be honest
I can't believe it. It's a true testament of how model railroading is the best hobby in the world, and
I truly understand that I'll be doing it for as long as I live.
Not only has it been extremely enjoyable, it's been an education as well.
You see, I wasn't really interested in school as a kid, but I guess it's only because I didn't enjoy it.
I've learned so much from working on my hobby that most model train hobbyists overlook. And it really
gave me an interest that I lacked in school to study and investigate so many subjects on my own and learn
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Seriously, I've learned about geography, topography, carpentry
skills, electronics, wiring, drawing, designs, history and various
other elements. Shoot, I even learned about scale and ratio
in math by learning how to make model trains o scale layouts
by modeling the correct ratios to the real world protoype!
Who knew that something like starting this hobby
would benefit me on an emotional, mental, and even physical level.
Oddly enough, I have even dabbled in the engineering arena by
making buildings and bridges that don't collapse. Also, the "Picasso"
in me allowed me to utilize a great deal of painting methods to make
every part of the landscape as real as can be.
In the end I realized this introduced me to a whole new world.
Keep in mind I still had the frustrations, anger, disappointment, and
sheer happiness all tied together in this hobby. I was blessed with tons
of excitement, but all the negative issues were my own doing. After all,
I just figured; "How hard can it be" and I simply ignored the basics in the
beginning.
If you can learn from your mistakes like I did, the process will be much
easier. Today I'm read up on almost every book on model trains that is available.
There was a time where I would go looking for some of the books when I wanted to
learn how to create a new kind of landscape, set up controls, or basically just
fix any problems that surfaced.
But Here's A Major Problem...
Due to the technology we've developed today, it's really
easy to make some seriously expensive mistakes! Whether it's being
able to control trains from a single controller, steam locomotives
with real sound and steam, or even the wonderful and meticulous
details can turn your budget upside down. Especially if you make a really big
beginner mistake like mixing trains o scale and trains HO scale in the same layout
and expect them to run properly together!
This is something I know first hand.
So after being asked about it for two years,
I decided it was time to review the majority "how to" books on model
trains that were out there today.
Can You Guess What Happened...
I realized that most of the books out there aren't that bad. The
biggest problem revolves around the fact that any model train hobbyist
would have to purchase 5 or maybe even 6 of these to get most of the
information you need to do the job right. Granted, this is my opinion,
but I eventually came across two downloadable eBooks that were different.
One is called "Model Trains for Beginners" and the other one is "Model Train Help."
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I spent money on these just like all the others, but now they are the
only two I even bother getting information from while working
on my layout.
Probably one of the most monumental differences between these books
and the ones that are collecting dust over on the shelf is: E-books
mean constant updates.
If this doesn't make sense I can just tell you that it's the BEST part!
Anytime the authors have new information you can
get it for free. So instead of constantly spending more money you just do so ONCE
and then you just sit back and learn.
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One thing I should point out is that I bought these eBooks with complete confidence. Each one of
them offers a 60-day money back guarantee, so if for any reason you don't feel
they are the best options you can receive a complete refund.
Let's look at the overviews for both books...
Model Trains for Beginners - The Complete Information Pack
Product Rating: 5 / 5
Model Trains For Beginners - The Complete Information Pack
is definitely my #1 choice.
I would consider this to be the "must have" of all the eBooks out
there for any beginner or intermediate model railroader especially if you're looking to getting into trains o scale.
This is top notch information!
The funny thing is you can find a plethora of information in it, even if you're someone
like me who has been doing this for almost 30 years. The material they provide truly lets
even the veterans know you need to go back to the basics every now and again. Personally,
I refer to this book just about every day.
They give you step-by-step instructions that you will use throughout your entire train-modeling life!
It doesn't matter if you need help with the jargon, language, how to plan, design or even execute
your layouts, Model Trains for Beginners is definitely the "tell all" option. Add in all the info
about advanced techniques like weather, dated layouts, or utilizing the controllers safely with the
wiring, you can do so even if you're not an electrician. It's an endless topic I could talk about
forever, but I'm sure you get the point.
Then of course the price is something to talk about as well. In this case I was really
surprised at the cost. I mean it's not exactly what I would have expected.
I mean, you get tons of top-notch information, everything you could possibly need to know, from square one!
And to top it all off, it comes with
over US$135 worth of bonuses! And these aren't some crummy useless things either.
The total cost? It's only $47 and when you compare this to the fact that you would have to purchase about
5 other books to get 80% of the information Model Trains for Beginners offers it's a no-brainer.
And that's not even considering how much money it will save you on making silly amatuer mistakes!
Click Here For More Information On
Model Trains For Beginners - The Complete Information Pack.
Model Train Help
Product Rating: 5 / 5
Even though Model Trains for Beginners is great for those just starting out,
Model Train Help is specifically engineered for intermediate to advanced modelers.
In all there are over 200 pages of concise technical solutions. If you're a beginner you
would be a bit overwhelmed, but those who have been model railroading for awhile will
definitely be satisfied with all the jam-packed material in one book. You can find information
on the language of model railroading, the planning, design, layouts, and how to make trouble
free models that will run easily.
It is a little less expensive at $39.97, but it's very cost effective since you would have
to purchase several model train books in order to get all this material. Enjoying it all
in one place is a huge benefit.
Since these are both eBooks, it's really nice to print out whatever information I need
at the time. This cuts down on skimming through the book, and gives you more time
throughout the day to work on other things.
Click Here For More Information On
Model Train Help.
The Conclusion...
For the longest time I tried building my model trains o scale without any help at all. I didn't use
any guides or other resources that could give me a "leg-up." Unfortunately I wasted tons
of time and spent money I really didn't need to at all. The end result left me frustrated
on many occasions and I even threw out my hard work every once in awhile and had to start
all over from scratch. I was embarrassed and my models looked more like they were child's
toys compared to the real thing.
When you look at both of these eBooks you can enjoy complete step-by-step instructions
that will alleviate many of the problems I originally had to deal with from time to time.
This is why I consider them "must have" choices for anyone.
>>Click Here For John's Top Choice If You Are A Beginner .
>>Click Here For John's Top Choice If You Are An Intermediate To Advanced Model Railroader.
Now, you might be sitting there thinking you can browse the net and find enough free
information to solve all your problems. I'm here to tell you it's absolutely right.
It can definitely help you get started.
This is why when you subscribe to the Model Trains For Beginners newsletter you get all kinds of free
tips, tricks, and secrets coming to your inbox every week.
The only problem is most of us today want everything done as soon as possible.
It's just the way of life in the 21st century, and I'm just like everyone else.
I mean if you want to spend hours upon hours sifting through all the cyberspace
information have at it. The only issue you will run into is you have to spend
extra time trying to figure out what material is reputable and what information is complete garbage.
If you want a more convenient way to get everything you need then I recommend purchasing one of
these or both eBooks. Once you pay you will only need a couple of minutes and
the information will be right on your computer. Best of all, if it's 4am and
you can't sleep, you don't have to wait until the book store opens at 9 or 10
in the morning to find what you need. All you have to do is purchase them
online and read over each one when the time is right. In the end there isn't
another option that is more convenient (unless you hire someone to do it all
for you, which defeats the purpose).
I still consider this to be the "Best Hobby in the World," and you will too after you choose the eBook that's right for you.
>>Click Here For John's Top Choice If You Are A Beginner .
>>Click Here For John's Top Choice If You Are An Intermediate To Advanced Model Railroader.
Posted by
John V. Smith, A Passionate Model Railroader:
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KEEP READING FOR A BONUS ARTICLE!
Begin Model Railroading Today - Continue For A Lifetime - Trains O Scale Serving Up Dreams!
Written By John V. Smith
Building a model railroad and adding to it is considered to be one the most enjoyable hobbies and its definitely one you can stick with through your whole life. Most model railroad hobbyists start with very simple designs, but are bitten by the bug before long. There are hobbyists that have spent thousands and thousands of dollars on their railroads and none of them ever regret doing so. Among the favorites are trains o scale and o gauge tracks.
If you're a beginner you'll quickly notice that model trains and accessories are offered in different scales. Sometimes this causes confusion for beginners, but it doesn't have to. Basically, the scale of a model train refers to its relation in size to an actual train. Take for example, one of the most popular, trains o scale.
There are multiple different model scales and each scale is represented by a letter. There are different advantages and disadvantages to each scale. You may have seen some large railroads and think the look awesome, but trains of this scale can often be rather challenging. Many times it's difficult to find the right accessories for these large scaled trains. On the other hand, the smallest of model trains are hard to work with, especially for people with large hands. Some consider trains o scale to be the most common and popular of the model train scales. Because of its popularity, there are many choices in terms of railroad accessories.
The largest scale is G. These model railroads are 1/24th the size of a real train. Of course their sheer size means it's highly unlikely you'll ever see this scale of model railroad indoors. Instead, you may come across one making its way through a lush landscaped garden. These giants are a far cry away from the smaller trains o scale.
You have probably seen the trains o scale being played with by children during the holidays. These trains o scale are 1:48 or 1/48th the size of an actual train. They are much smaller than the G scale trains, but for some they are still too large to use indoors. These trains require a considerable amount of space. However, if a hobbyist has plenty of space the trains o scale and o gauge tracks are ideal.
As mentioned earlier, HO is the most popular scale, with a size of 1:87. In other words, these are 1 87th the size of a real train. This relatively small size makes them ideal because not only do they take up less space, but they're also large enough so that fine details and other interesting characteristics need not be compromised. It's also easy to purchase accessories made to the same scale, and of course this allows you to bring your model railroad to life.
Other sizes include N and Z scale models. The N scale has a ratio of 1:160, while the Z is 1:220. One should bear in mind however that Z scale model railroads can be very tricky to work with, and the availability of accessories can be somewhat limited. That's why modeling in the 1:48 trains o scale is so popular.
Even though the different scales of model trains can be confusing for beginners, they allow enthusiast to build realistic looking settings. For instance, if you purchase trains o scale, you will use o scale accessories so that all parts of the setting are the right proportion to each other.
Beginners should also be aware that different gauges of track are used. If the trains o scale are selected, o gauge track will be used. When purchasing additional track for railroads you must be sure you purchase the right gauge of track.
The internet is full of information regarding model railroading, so if you're ever at a loss for new ideas, you know where to go. One thing is for certain though, once the bug bites, you'll be hooked for life.
Click Here For More Information On
Model Trains For Beginners - The Complete Information Pack.
Are Your Model Trains O Scale Missing Realism? Tips To Help
Written By Eric Olsen
Many people of all ages around the world love to partake in enjoying model railroads and building their very own layouts. Many model trains, scenery items and additions that you can use as part of your own model railroad set have changed over the years, but the basics remain the same. No matter what model railroad set that you view and enjoy or have as your own, there will be a theme to your set. The scale of your trains will be consistent with the display and how the trains are shown off will depict the type and style of model railroad set. Without consistency, your model railroad will not have the realism or professionalism that you are seeking for in your model train set. As we'll see, one tip is to stick with a consistent scale: if your modeling trains o scale, keep with that scale throughout.
The world of model railroads is very precise and standardized. Although many standard scales are internationally recognized, there have been some model train sets that have their own individual scales that are not known by others in different metropolitan centers. No matter which model train set you are looking at or want to build on your own, you will find a few benchmarks in which train sets and their scenery items are created. If you are looking at building all of your own scenery items as part of your model railroad set, you will want to ensure that everything follows the exact scale to appear as realistically as possible. It is possible to use more than one scale together as part of your model railroad in order to add forced depth perception in your train set. For example, you could be using trains o scale as your main focus, but perhaps in the background you use a much smaller scale to make it look farther away. At first this seems a contradiction, but if your layout is so elaborate, it makes sense.
There are a lot of things that actually go into building, displaying, and designing a model railroad set. It is always a good idea to browse around first for themes, scenery pieces, lighting, and accessories, before taking the plunge of building a model set. For example, looking at available popular scales reveals that trains o scale are much more popular, therefore more materials are availabe for them, than obscure scales.
Devising your own model train set can be intimidating, but do not feel that it is a task that even a newcomer or amateur cannot tackle. With a little knowledge and a lot of patience, you are sure to construct your very own model train set. You can find an excellent resource below for beginning to model trains o scale, or any other scale for that matter, in the excellent book, Model Trains For Beginners.
The utmost important decision that you will have to make when building a model train set is to figure out just how much track you will want to lay for the set. Once you figure that out, feel free to then choose a spot that the model railroad set will reside. You will also need to figure out just how big this set will be and how much room it will take up. Using trains o scale will take up a different amount of space, than say, n scale or z scale, or even g scale. It is always good to have some extra room in case you wish to expand the set later. Most people who have this as their hobby will start off small and then build up. They will usually start with an oval shaped track with only a few switches and then add and build on from there. However you choose to do it, make sure that you are putting enough time and effort into so that you and anyone else can enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Click Here For More Information On
Model Trains For Beginners - The Complete Information Pack.
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