Starting model railroad...getting up a Christmas list

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I’m trying to keep it sort of general, because I’m just starting up my train set. I have a DCC controller (Digitrax Super Empire Builder, DCC equipped loco) and some track.

I’m looking for mostly tools. I have already mentioned getting a Dremel tool, so that’s one possibility. My birthday is right before Christmas (Dec 22nd), so I’m trying to cover that, too.

I’m trying to get a number of items to give to my parents, so they can pick and choose. Trying to stay with in $50-100 or so, but $50 would be better.

I told my parents that I was going to keep specific train parts off the list this year because I didn’t want to put something on the list that I might not use because it won’t fit the layout, so I thought some extra tools would be better.

Anyone have any ideas?

2

Here are my suggestions:

  1. An NMRA gage, by the way, you didn’t mention what scale.

  2. If you model HO scale, a Kadee coupler gage.

  3. A pair of trip pin pliers for coupler trip pins

  4. A good hobby knife and a self healing cutting mat.

  5. A good set of small screwdrivers.

If you get a Dremel tool, you might want to find the model that allows you to use the flex shaft attachment. I have this and it has paid for itself already. You also might want the Dremel drill press. It uses the existing rotary tool and allows you to do more things with.

Those are just some thoughts.

3

So true - get a poor hobby knife and you’ll need self-healing flesh. Don’t ask me how I know. [:'(]

I will suggest a multimeter. Also handy off-layout!

4

  1. NMRA gauge

  2. A pack of #11 blades and xacto blade holder.

  3. Testors professional glue with the needle tip dispenser (black bottle), and liquid testors with brush in the bottle.

  4. Pin Vise, #60, a couple #79 and a couple #80 drill bits

  5. tweezers. Self closure as well as regular kind.

  6. #5 Kadee couplers

  7. Jewlers screwdrivers

  8. Lube and oil for engines

  9. Xuron Rail nippers

  10. paint brushes lots of them from 00 to 5/6 (available on the cheap at any craft store)

  11. Cheap self closing clamps available at any hardware store (like harbor freight or lowes)

  12. Cheap volt meter when you get into eletrical

  13. Soldering Iron. You can get a cheap weller knock off for $20 at micromark.

  14. Squadrin modelers putty (green or red)

  15. various grades of sandpaper from 100 to 600 grit

Welcome to the hobby!

5

Okay, these are good. I do have a multimeter and some rail nippers already.

I bought some magnetic couplers some time ago, but I don’t think they’re Kadee.

Quick question about the pin vise. Is that better than or best used with a Dremel?

6

You could also ask for some basic books on benchword, wiring, track laying and scenery, anything that you think would help you. If you had a chance to browse some books, check out what they recommend for tools.

You could also ask for a gallon lf white glue, it has a lot of uses. Cheap latex caulk also comes to mind, good for attaching most anything to most anything else.

Have fun with all your new toys.

Good luck,

7

A dremel spins way too fast for little #79 and #80 bits. You’ll snap them right off without a reduction gear attachment.

I personally like this for my pin vise. It’s quick, and easy to use.

http://www.micromark.com/MICRO-HAND-DRILL,7045.html

8

If you are just starting your layout, you could always ask for some flextrack, ballast, roadbed, various ground covers.

9

Another thing in the basic scenery group is a basic set of inexpensive artists acryllic tube paints. My wife gave me a nudge, last Christmas with a set. Also, a selection of craft paints could come in handy. Give them some basic colors suggested in scenery books.

As mentioned any basic scenic materials, grass, ballast, foliage, etc. Just give the buyer an idea of the season you are planning to model so they will know to get lush greens or fall colors.

Have fun,