Model Trains Beginner's Guide
Starting a new hobby can entail a lot of time, money, and work. If you're interested in a hobby for a lifetime, a hobby that will allow you to not only be creative, but also relieve the stresses of modern life, then model railroading is exactly what you need. And if you're a beginner, then our model trains beginner's guide will help you kick off your new exciting hobby. The following tips will help guide you along your new journey.
Tip#1. Do some research Trains come in different materials, styles, scales, gauges, and prices. There are plastic trains available as well as metal or wooden trains. Prices may vary depending on the scale of the trains. Scale is the ratio of a model compared to an actual train. You may choose a large scale such as G or garden scale with a ratio or scale of 1 to 22.5, or the smallest Z scale, with a ratio of 1:220. In between we have the O scale at 1:48, the most popular HO scale at 1:87, and the up and coming N scale at a ratio of 1:160. The scale you select will be dependent how much space you have available and how much money you want to invest.
Our model trains beginner's guide suggests that you search online or ask some friends about the prices of each scale of trains. This will provide you with an idea as to how much each size costs. Whatever design and scale you choose, pick one which best suits your space, budget, and personality
Tip #2. Know your tracks It's not enough that you merely know which trains you like and dislike. You also have to know that there are important parts that you should be aware of besides the trains themselves. Tracks is one of these important parts. Tracks can come in brass, nickel silver, or steel alloy. Selecting the correct track is an important aspect of your model trains beginner's guide. Brass track can tarnish, so it needs to be cleaned frequently. Steel track is subject to oxidation and thus rust. Nickel silver is the most expensive, but it's the easiest to maintain in the long run.
Tip #3. Save some cash If you've done your research but still don't feel comfortable getting your train components individually, it's probably best to begin by getting a complete train starter's kit. For the novice, this is what our model trains beginner's guide recommends. A starter's or beginner's kit will come complete with a locomotive, some cars, tracks, and maybe even some scenery and accessories. As you setup your layout and become more acquainted with model railroading, you can always get more locomotives, cars, controllers, and accessories. And what's great is that you don't need to do or buy everything today. Most expansive layouts and intricate designs you see have been developed over several years.
Tip # 4. Buying your model trains Purchase your trains from a reputable store or dealer. It would be best that the store offer after sales assistance to avoid additional expenses later on. Unless you can do it comfortably, we again recommend that you initially buy a train kit. It's probably cheaper than buying the individual components and it can be assembled easily. This way you'll end up spending less money to get started, especially if you discover later that model railroading isn't really for you. Look for quality brand name trains. Remember you're shelling out cash in buying these items, so make sure you get what you pay for.
Tip #5. Lifelong hobby Engaging in a hobby like model railroading is a lifetime commitment. In our model trains beginner's guide, we suggest setting aside some money on a regular basis to grow and expand your model railroading layout. You don't have to do it all at one time. Take your time and enjoy your new wonderful hobby. In conclusion, your hobby of model railroading is fun, relaxing, and can give you a lifetime of pleasure. Simply follow our model trains beginner's guide and learn the basics first before you make any rash decisions. You'll find your new hobby more relaxing this way. It's also a great idea to join a club or get to know other hobbyists to make your experience more satisfying.
Sources: http://www.youtube.com/user/modeltrainsrailroads http://ezinearticles.com/?Model-Trains-BeginnersGuide&id=8339697