what train set is the best?

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I am checking out train sets in walthers 2006 catalog. Which one is probably the best? Thanks, Stephen

2

If you must buy a train set. I would go with Bachmann Spectrum. Some people say the new Modelpower Metal Trains are good, but I have no experience with them.

3

DOENT GET THE TRAINLINE, THAT IS THE SMEALIEST PIECE OF SH** ON THE PLANET!!!, my parents got me one, once i get a new loco im not using anything from it ever again , engine has nooooo detail, only one little light, the only decient thing are the passanger cars which are barely decent compared to the normal walthers heavyweights.
cant stand the track, tried putting it in a loop around the tree but the track splits apart from the loco’s weight after 2 loops around.
so if your goin to use it on the floor i definatly would get somthing with easy track in it.

now, my parents, well my parents paid for, i picked out an Athearn train set for my little brother, has easy track, SD40 loco, and 4 cars plus secret genisis car. from what i can see in the box is its a pretty nice loco, has some good details.
maby im wrong, but compared to the one i have, its good. its funny, for the piece of crap, my parents paid $130, for this one they paid $80 or 90.
the bachmans are also good

4

Proto 1000 or Athearn

5

bachmann acela $199

6

Yep…probably the two best.

I have had pretty good luck with the Bachmann set we have at my store. Every kid that comes in there grabs it, and we’ve had only a couple broken stirrups. The track has been great. It has run at least 8 hours a day, 6 days a week for the last 2 years!

The cars have body mount couplers, and look like #5’s will drop right in the pockets. The hopper trucks needed to be spaced to keep the wheels from rubbing the bottom of the car. I used a couple of .010 slot car axle spacers between the trucks and bolsters, and no rubbing now. ( I was out of KaDee shims, or I would have used them. )

The track has only been wiped down with isopropyl once in two years. The loco has been lubed twice. And only then because I had the shell off playing with LED lighting experiments.

I agree the upscale sets are way better than the lower grade stuff, but some of the less expensive sets are a good inexpensive way to get into model railroading. A simple circle of quick track could turn into a lifetime of enjoyment!

Rotor