Art-ology

Model trains stores charge full retail, but then you are also getting the expert advice. If you are a beginner then model trains stores should be your first stop.

Take note that I said model trains stores and not hobby shops, because they are very different.

Hobby shops are usually staffed by people that know a little about everything, while model trains stores are usually owned by very well experienced and passionate model railroaders.

Building a model train layout is the most enjoyable hobby in my opinion. There is no other hobby where you can learn and improve a wide variety of skills in one place.

Building a model train layout exposes you to planning, design, woodwork, metalwork, wiring, electronics, kitbashing, scratchbuilding and so much more. But, you don’t need to know it all when you start.

The model trains stores are filled with skilled and experienced people willing to advise you.

So, why is model trains known as an expensive hobby?

The hobby is blamed for being expensive because of these 3 model train mistakes:

1 – Not Knowing What You Want

Most model train beginners start with a model train set that comes complete with an oval track, locomotive, some cars and a controller. Often this is because it is cheaper to buy the set rather than individual components, but you get what you pay for.

As soon as you add more track to expand the oval, the problems start.

The power pack in the model train set may have only been designed to power the oval or figure 8 length of track. When you add extra track, the power pack is now not powerful enough. This usually means a voltage drop on some parts of the track and will make the engine start and stop at those sections. This can be very frustrating.

2 – Building a Model Train layout That Is Too Big

The impressive model railroad layouts at the local shows are enough to inspire beginners to go home and convert their shed into a huge model railway.

Some of those experts have spent in excess of 20 years on their layouts. A beginner trying to achieve that level of expertise from the beginning will be very frustrated.

Often the smallest of layouts can be more fun because they get to a level of enjoyable operation quicker. The experience adds up over the years and a small layout is always easy to expand.

3 – Paying Full Retail Price

Pay full retail price for every part of your model railroad and it is going to be an expensive hobby.

Your local model railway club will have members with locomotives, cars, buildings, etc. in good condition that they will sell at a fraction of the new price. Model railroaders are generous people and willing to help beginners.

Looking for a step-by-step guide to avoid the expensive model train mistakes almost all beginners make? Check out my recommendations at http://modeltrainsforbeginners.com/recommended and learn more about the must-have model train resources I recommend.