I constructed my first N scale layout in a coffee table in 1976 based on the East Glasstop project railroad series that appeared in Model Railroader from December of 1970 to April of 1971. However, it was not until I retired in 2016 that I completed my second layout, a 5 x 5 foot square […]
Scale: N Scale
A closer look at well cars
Q: I’ve noticed 53-foot intermodal containers on top of what I believe are 40-foot containers. What I’m not sure about is whether the smaller container is in a 40-foot well car or a 53-foot car? — David Bellamy A: The 40-foot intermodal container in the bottom position can be in a 40- or 53-foot well […]
News & Products for the week of February 10th 2025
News & Products for the week of February 10th 2025 Model railroad operators and builders can get the latest information about locomotives, freight cars, passenger cars, tools, track, and more by reading Model Railroader’s frequent product updates. The following are the products Model Railroader editors have news on for the week of February 10th, […]
Aurora Miniatures N Greenbrier 7550 boxcar
The Greenbrier 7,550-cubic-foot capacity double-plug-door boxcar is the first N scale freight car from Aurora Miniatures North America Inc. The injection-molded plastic model features many separate, factory-applied parts; metal wheelsets; and body-mounted plastic AuroraJanney plastic knuckle couplers. Prototype history The Aurora Miniatures N Greenbrier 7550 boxcar is based on the 2016 to present version of […]
Tips for modeling station signs
Q: I’m working on adding lineside details to my freelance model railroad. I’d like to add station signs to help my operators identify various locations on the layout. Though I’m not modeling a specific prototype, I want the signs to look realistic. Where can I find information on prototype station signs? — Bobby T. A: […]
N scale Alco RSD5 from Atlas
We’re turning the clock back to the 1960s on the Milwaukee, Racine & Troy State Line Route for our latest product review video. This time around we’ll take a look at the N scale Alco RSD5 from Atlas. Model Railroader Senior Editor Cody Grivno provides a brief history of the six-axle road switcher and Atchison, […]
N scale Alco RSD5 from Atlas
We’re turning the clock back to the 1960s on the Milwaukee, Racine & Troy State Line Route for our latest product review video. This time around we’ll take a look at the N scale Alco RSD5 from Atlas. Model Railroader Senior Editor Cody Grivno provides a brief history of the six-axle road switcher and Atchison, […]
How do I expand my starter train set?
Did you just get a new train set for Christmas? Are you growing bored watching it go around and around the same oval? Don’t worry, your introduction into the world of model railroading is just beginning. Luckily for you, most train set manufacturers offer track expansion sets to help expand your starter train set. […]
News & Products for the week of February 3rd 2025
News & Products for the week of February 3rd 2025 Model railroad operators and builders can get the latest information about locomotives, freight cars, passenger cars, tools, track, and more by reading Model Railroader’s frequent product updates. The following are the products Model Railroader editors have news on for the week of February 3rd, […]
Decade-plus of technological advancements in model locomotives
Locomotives, regardless of scale, have always been at the forefront of technological advancements in model railroading. Over the past decade, this trend has accelerated: bringing in innovative features and enhancements that redefine the hobby. Whether they’re seen as trailblazers for the future or as models featuring nothing but “all the bells and whistles,” let’s explore […]
Model Railroader staff’s favorite track plans
When it come to track plans, everyone has a favorite. After all, each modeler values and prioritizes different aspects of model railroading. Some prefer intricate freight switching layouts, while others prefer long, continuous passenger routes. Some like layouts with dense foliage and rolling hills, whereas other modelers may prefer flat, desert landscapes. We here at […]
Rail shipments for an oyster cannery
Q: I was wondering if you could provide me with information on what kind of loads an oyster cannery sends and receives? — Markus Russ A: I cast the net wide (pun fully intended) to help answer your question. I started internally. Trains magazine Associate Editor Bob Lettenberger wrote “Five mind-blowing facts — Stilwell Oyster […]
