One of the first things we model railroaders learn when we go from a train set to a layout is that our work is never done. Perhaps one of the biggest attractions of our hobby is the ability to continually evolve our layouts, from swapping out a handful of accessories to completely taking apart a …
Starting your model railroad is exciting, whether you’re simply putting together your first “train set” or already thinking about a more detailed layout. When you look up pictures of impressive layouts and see the time and work that has obviously gone into them, it can be very intimidating! However, the sense of satisfaction when your …
On January 25th 2020, we returned to America’s largest model train show to visit with manufacturers, explore new products, and find out exactly what we can expect in 2020 and beyond! Organized by the Amherst Railway Society, the annual Railroad Hobby Show has grown to over 400,000 square feet in the last couple of years, …
As 2019 draws to a close, we’re taking a look at products and innovations which have stood out to us over the past year. With new locomotives, rolling stock, and continued technological advances, there’s no doubt that 2019 was a great year to be a model railroader! Locomotives 2019 was arguably one of the best …
Wheels – they’re an integral part of every model train. But you might be surprised to know that there is far more to them than just watching them roll. With multiple size and material choices, things can get confusing very quickly, especially when it comes to replacing them or building a kit. In this article, …
Much like red barns or wood-framed houses, concrete silos are a classic staple of the American landscape. They can be seen from the Atlantic to the Pacific, from the great plains to the industrial northeast. Used for storing diverse materials ranging from concrete to grain, these industrial pillars can often be found alongside railroads, making …
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There are several named trains throughout history which have transcended both the railfan and railroading world, making a lasting impression in popular culture. There’s the Orient Express; made famous by Agatha Christie’s mystery novel of the same name. The 20th Century Limited; remembered as an icon of the art deco era. And there’s the Super …
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Thanks to Woodland Scenics, gone are the days of just using powdered turf to replicate all types of natural scenery. With the new Field System, you can effectively model fields, meadows, pastures, and more with incredible 3D realism. In this post, we’ll explore everything available in this new range of products. Static Grass Range …
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Freight trains are by far the most common type of train that you’ll come across in North America. We have one of the most vast and efficient networks in the world, and freight railroading literally drives our economy in many ways. But what makes a realistic modern freight train, and what types of cars should …
When picturing a small North American town, there are several iconic structures which will almost universally come to mind. A white, steepled church, a railroad depot, perhaps a bandstand, and almost always, a water tower. Constructed at a height tall enough to distribute pressurized, potable tap water, water towers are a common fixture of both …
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