My father has expressed an interest in N scale train modeling and I’m looking for some advice. What would be an appropriate website for the hobby in general and N scale in particular? Are there any magazines besides “Model Railroader” that would be appropriate? Is there an online hobby retailer that stands above the rest? I know these are very general questions but I’m interested in giving him some resources and references to help him along. Any help and/or advice would be most appreciated. Thank You.
Bo
People here are pretty knowledgeable. Ask away.
I’d suggest reading my beginner’s guide clickable from my signature.
My favorite websites for N scale trains is www.nscalesupply.com and http://www.blwnscale.com/.
As for magazines the only one iknow of is N Scale Railroading. You can get it at your local hobby shop or at nscale supply.
Welcome!!
http://www.rolleiman.com/trains/clinic2p1.html
Kiss your money goodbye and enjoy the hobby!!
[#welcome]
As mentioned this site is great if you have questions, problems, or just time to kill. [;)]
I model HO so I don’t have any N specific links but I like Joe Fugates forum too. He has a scenery clinic he is doing that is very enlightening.
Joe’s Scenery Clinic
Joe also has a series of how to video’s available here.
This site has a lot of general information for people new to the hobby too.
New Railway Modellers
I have had good service from Standard Hobby Supply but there are others too that are good.
If you want software for track planning the easiest to learn is probably Atlas Right Track 7. It’s only really good if you plan on using Atlas track though. If you are using other track products or want something a little harder to learn but a bit more configurable etc. then check out XTRKCAD. Just be sure to run all the demos in the help section at least twice before giving up on it.
Also Kalmbach/Model Railroader have a number of good books available.
N Scale Model Railroading: Getting Started in the Hobby
Have fun!