Im working on n , ho and O scale trains Right now im focusing on ho scale and i need the basic supplies to get me started however the layout of my scenery is 8’ x 8’ so i need a lot of everything anyone with help i would appreciate it.
there’s several, it all depends on the item, some have one item cheaper than the other, and another will have a different item you need cheaper than the rest. just do a search and you’ll find them.
a few are internet trains, internet hobbies, wholesaletrains, discount trains and hobbylinc, those are the ones i can think of off the top of my head.
jay
I get whatever I can from Trainworld, and have for more than 25 years. They are not really an internet dealer, they are phone/fax/mail order house. www.trainworld.com
There are a lot of things to consider besides who is cheapest. I don’t know where you live, but if there is a train oriented hobby shop near you I would suggest you pay them a few visits. You pay a bit more than if you ordered from a website, but you’ll have a real person to talk to WHO WILL HELP YOU if you have problems with your purchase. He (or she) may also be able to save you tons of money and misdirected effort by suggesting you look at THIS item instead of THAT item as you expand your layout and your hobby knowledge.
Price is not everything!
Ed
Redd:
I suggest you do the following.
First, If you can, buy your ‘materials’ from a large non-hobby retailer. Home Depot for example. Likely to be much cheaper than from any form of hobby shop.
Second, ‘Bundle’ your purchases if at all possible. If you are buying $100 or $200 you are likely to get a far better deal on shipping and handling, perhaps free. On a large order this can save you 7-15 percent.
Third, Make a ‘materials’ list for the entire project, including rolling stock and motive power. It is not uncommon with good sized orders to small manufacturers to get ‘trade discounts’. I always ask, and frequently do get the dealer reduction.
Fourth, Look for seasonal or periodic sales. If you are prepared, you can save 40-60% off list, which makes the making of a list and timing your purchases well worth it.
Good Luck
Randy
i have found that Trainworld, and standard hobby supply (standardhobby.com) have pretty good prices(50% off retail on average) although they have somewhat limited selections when it comes to some items. When it comes to saving money it also helps to have a well thought out plan before buy a alot of expensive supplies, rolling stock, or motive power.
hope this helps,
Chris
In my opinion, Toy Train Heaven has by the best prices overall. They’re on the web at toytrainheaven.com, which will give you the phone number to call in orders.