Train Set Toys

One of the best and easiest ways to launch your model train hobby is with train set toys. Where do you start when trying to choose your first set?

How to pick model electric train set toys

You will probably want to start your new hobby with a model train set. Maybe it won’t be the best train on the market, but with a set you’ll have all the parts you need to get started and they’ll all work together. Sets come in all different scales, so you will have to decide what size you want. HO and O are very popular, so often it is easier to get accessories for these scales.

Popular model train scales: Z (1:220), N (1:160), HO (1:87), S (1:64), O (1:48), G (1:25)

Now that you have decided on a scale, think about this:

 

•  Do you want a set with a steam locomotive or diesel locomotive?
•  Passenger or freight? FWIW — children like the wider selection of freight cars.
•  Which train name is best?  Some people want to choose a train they often see.  It is pretty common to pick a railroad that runs in the local area.

 

If picking an HO Scale set, you should consider the coupler style that is included. Couplers are for coupling, or connecting the cars. The horn-hook couplers can be found on Life-Like sets. Most others use the knuckle couplers. And you can change the couplers, if you like. The Life-Like sets generally have more accessories, which makes them popular with the kids.

Most beginner sets come with steel track. High end sets have NS (Nickel-Silver) track. NS track doesn’t rust and so is easier to care for. Bachmann EZ Track is often the track of choice in sets and can be purchased in additional packs. Life-Like sets can be expanded using their Power Loc track. Read the train set descriptions for information on the included track type.

Whatever your choice, you will have the great pleasure of serving as engineer in your own pilot house, master of your train set toys.

 

Life-Like Trains – Freight Runner Train Set
Ship a load of freight with the Freight Runner Train Set from Life-Like Trains. Made from high-quality cast plastic and painted in Sante Fe Railroad colors, this HO-scale train set looks great displayed in a bedroom, under a tree, or in a play room. The engine is powered by the plug-in track, and it moves in forward and reverse directions along the giant figure eight 89 inches x 38 inches. The set includes the engine with functional headlight, 5 freight cars, caboose, terminal re-railer track, 29 track sections, power pack, spare wires and couplers, passenger station, and dozens of signs, trees, and pieces of scenery. Engine dimensions: 7.5"L x 2"H x 1.75"W.

 

 Bachmann Chattanooga HO Scale Electric Train Set

Bachmann Chattanooga HO Scale Electric Train Set
The Chattanooga HO Scale Electric Train Set by Bachmann Trains captures all the energy and excitement of train travel. Named for the famous Nashville, Chattanooga & St. Louis Railroad, this 155-piece set includes all the miniature people, buildings, and structures you’ll need to recreate the romance of the steam era. The Chattanooga HO Scale Electric Train Set is a 47" x 38" oval of snap-fit E-Z track(r), including 12 pieces of curved track, 1 piece of straight track, and 1 plug-in terminal rerailer.

 

This Finely Crafted Wooden Train Set Is A Must Have For Any Little Engineer In The Making. Includes Vibrant Cars Buildings And Accessories. Set Can Be Reconfigured For Hundreds Of Different Layouts. Compatible With Thomas And Friends Brio And Other Fine Wooden Train Sets. manufacturer’s Suggested Age: 3 Years And Up.