best book for beginners

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

Hello everyone,

I just have a quick question regarding what the best, most concise book for all of the basics of “how to” in model railroading.

I was looking at the Kalmbach Getting Started in the Hobby, but before buying wanted to get the opinions of those here

Thanks in advance.

Russ

2

It is scale-specific (though I think they had one for HO) but I bought this book (link below) back in 2000 when I started thinking about getting back into model railroading. It covers all of the bases and shows building a hollow-core door/foam layout from start to finish. I don’t know if this is still in print but I imagine there’s something similar out now. HTH!
M

http://www.amazon.com/Scale-Model-Railroading-Getting-Railroader/dp/0890243476/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1198811422&sr=8-5

3

I am not sure what is currently in print but if you can find a copy of “An HO Railroad That Grows”, by Linn Westcott, (?spelling) or, “The ABC’s of Model Railroading”. I found both to be pretty good with the award going to Linns book. “HO Railroad From Set To Scenery” is probably good too.

Try searching the local library for books too. I have found quite a few that way. Also some searches on the internet will yeild lots of information. Then there is this forum, which can be searched too and is loaded with guys with tons of experience who for the most part are eager to help out folks who are new to the MRR scene. Have fun!

[#welcome]

4

Yes! You will find this book and an HO version still available in the Kalmbach Shop at the top of the forum pages.

5

Thanks for replies thus far,

Does the Kalmbach book include most scenery options as well (painting track, weathering, ballast, stuff such as that?

6

Hi Russ,

I don’t know of any book that covers all of the basics well. I mostly perfer more in depth books on specific topics.

That being said, I “review” a few titles on my web site. You might find it helpful.

With a bit of luck one of the other posters will be able to provide a better answer.

Karl

7

A specific book on scenery is a good idea although you can learn an incredible amount here on the forum and at various websites out there.

Here is a link to one of the best sites to learn scenery, (in my opinion) and he sells how-to videos as well. Joe Fugate is one of the masters of scenery. [2c]

Kalmbach claims the book covers from benchwork to realistic scenery. Check it out.