hello everyone-i’m new to both model railroading and this site.i would like to get into the n scale trains,but i don’t kow where to begin.i’ve looked on a couple of sites at some train sets,and they seem like a good way to go.some of the names were bachman and life-like.i don’t know anything about the brands,or what i should be looking for.i’d like to eventually get a norfolk southern type train(what i usually see) any ideas?besides e-bay ,is there a site where you can find stuff used?thanks alo-any ideas appreciated! -adam hoyt
Start out with something cheap to make sure you like it.
First, welcome aboard.
Before barging in, the normal suggestion here is to get your hands on some books and maybe videos regarding model railroading. One of the usual recommendations is “Track Planning for Realistic Operations” by John Armstrong. It has been around for years and revised several times. Kalmbach has several other books on specifc aspects of the hobby or train operations. The suggestion was made recently by someone out here for somebody new to spend at least 8 hours reading before going forward. Even that may be on the conservative side.
I’m generally not a fan of sets. The main problem is quality. While buying a set up front may look cost effective, if it turns out to be nothing but trouble that will lead to frustration and often a premature end to the interest in this fine hobby.
Bachmann is not well thought of out here, but their Spectrum line is pretty decent. Life Like is often hit or miss. Some of their N-scale locomotives are quite good (I own several of their FA2s, a couple of their SW-9 switchers and have been happy with them).
In terms of top brands, Kato, Atlas and Intermountain are consistently good. Ebay is a good source provided you know exactly what it is you want and how much you can get it for elsewhere. I’ve done well out there, myself. Others will disagree.
If you have a local hobby shop (known as LHS on this forum) that is knowlegeable in trains, pay them a visit. Other good N-scale sites include www.blwnscale.com, www.4nscale.com and www.nscalesupply.com. Trains shops that carry N-scale and are good include www.modeltrainstuff.com, www.toytrainheaven.com, www.standardhobby.com and www.trainworld.com. I’m sure I’m missing many.
Having added to your confusion, my work here is done! [;)]
well,you definetely helped me- i was going to buy a bachman set later today.i’ve been trying to find out as much as i can online-i think i’ll have to go ahead and buy a book.so no sets,huh?i just don’t know where to start when buying.i think i’ll stick with atlas.anyways,thanks for the help!-adam hoyt
do you know anyone around wilmington,n.c that is in to trains?
allow me to further confuse you !
I got back into modelling 6 years ago, I started by reading some magazines, and going to local train shows.
I found and joined a club that fit my style and ‘comfort zone’, met some very interesting people, all of whom were willing to add to my personal knowledge, confusion!
The LHS are a good place to hang out, and pick up ideas, too.
My advice is ti just do it !
allow me to add to your confusion !
I started back into modelling about 6 years ago, by reading a few magazines, going to local shows, etc.
I found and joined a club that fit my style and ‘comfort zone’, there are also LHS (Hobby stores) where people will gladly offer free advice, most of it good!
My suggestion: Just do it!
Don’t go wild, depending on your time and budget, but start !!
Adam,
Not exactly. My father-in-law lives there, but he is not into trains. However, that means I do get down there from time to time and I’ll check into what is down there. Obviously the Atlantic Coast Line was big down there.
There is a chance we will be moving down there next year. More likely we are either staying put or heading to Asheville, but Wilmington is also on the radar.