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.
Model trains stores are usually staffed with passionate model railroaders while hobby shops are usually staffed with more generic type sales people.
Creating your own model train world is the most enjoyable past time in my opinion. There is no other hobby where you can learn a complete new range of skills in one place.
Building a model railroad means you get to plan, design, complete timber and metalwork projects, test your wiring and electronics skills, and more. But, the best part is, there is always help available.
The model trains stores in your vicinity are waiting and willing to advise you on the best way to go about building your dream model railroad.
Is model railroading an expensive hobby?
The expense is based on the decisions you make. These are the 3 model train mistakes you should try to avoid:
1 – Not Knowing What You Want
Most model train beginners start with an electric train set that may come with a figure 8 track, an engine, some freight cars and a power pack. Often this is because it is less expensive to buy the train set rather than each component separately, but you get what you pay for.
When you try and add more track to expand the small oval or figure eight, the problems start.
The power pack in the electric train set may have only been designed to power the figure eight or oval length of track. When you add extra track, the power pack is now not powerful enough. This can result in a voltage drop on parts of the track. This usually means intermittent starting and stopping of your train. This can be very frustrating.
2 – Building a Model Train layout That Is Too Big
It is inspiring to see the awesome model train layouts at the shows. They encourage beginners to go home and convert the spare bedroom into a huge layout.
Some of the model railroad experts at those shows have spent 20 or more years on their layouts and a beginner trying to achieve that level of model railroading from the beginning will be disappointed.
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
You can’t pay full retail price for every part of your model railway or it will turn out to be an expensive hobby.
Your local model railroad club will have members with equipment in good condition that they will sell at a fraction of the new price. Model railroaders are always 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.
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