Best Hobby Train Sets in 2022

Last update: January 7, 2023

Are Hornby in trouble?

The iconic British model railway manufacturer Hornby is in financial trouble. The company has issued a profit warning and its shares have fallen sharply. Hornby is struggling with declining demand for its products, as well as increased competition from cheaper rivals. The company is also facing higher costs, due to the weak pound. Hornby is cutting costs and has announced plans to raise money by selling its HQ and other assets. Hornby is a much-loved brand, but it is facing challenges.

Are old model trains worth anything?

Many people believe that old model trains are not worth anything because they are outdated. However, there are some people who are willing to pay a lot of money for these trains because they are rare. There are a few factors that you need to consider when determining the value of your old model train. The most important factor is the condition of the train. If the train is in good condition, it is likely that it will be worth more money. Another factor to consider is the brand of the train. Some brands, such as Lionel, are more valuable than others. Finally, the age of

Do girls like model trains?

This is a difficult question to answer definitively since everyone is different. Some girls may like model trains because they are interested in the engineering and mechanics of how they work. Others may enjoy the creative aspect of designing and building the landscapes and structures that surround the tracks. For many girls, it may simply be the nostalgia factor associated with trains. Whatever the reason, there are plenty of girls out there who love model trains!

Do people still collect model trains?

Yes, people still collect model trains. In fact, model train collecting is a popular hobby among people of all ages. Many people enjoy the challenge of finding and collecting rare and valuable model trains, while others simply enjoy the hobby for the sake of enjoyment. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just getting started, there is a place for you in the world of model train collecting.


Lionel Santa Fe Super Chief Electric O Gauge Model Train Set w/ Remote and Bluetooth Capability Review:


Since practically infancy, my two boys, ages 7 and 11, have been completely infatuated with trains. My eldest began it off with his obsessions with Thomas and the Polar Express, which he eagerly passed on to his younger sibling. (For whatever reason, their sister will play with their antique wooden railroad, but never with the same enthusiasm they both had.)My oldest son had the extremely pricey Polar Express Ready to Run Lionel set on his Christmas list for several years, and Santa, who had already given him several other Polar Express sets, including the already fairly expensive plastic track Lionel, larger-scale set, wasn't sure if the expense was justified.But later, I discovered it to be an Amazon Lightning Deal and bought it. Wow, what a difference when using Lionel's O-scale, scaled-down electrified track trains for the first time. Our concerns about transformers and how difficult they would be to put together and take apart were unfounded because our son, who was 7 at the time, had the train put together and running on his own in a matter of minutes. The trains themselves are of higher quality and maintain their position on the track well. Since then, it has continued to be THE Polar Express set in our family's holiday décor and has acquired a number of new additions.Despite the fact that it's difficult to top the Polar Express's holiday charm, this Super Chief set is Lionel's most recognizable electronic train. With superb details and a functioning headlamp that you can turn on and off, the engine is primarily made of metal and feels substantial and hefty in your hands. The inside of the passenger cars are illuminated so you can see who is inside, and they are also very well crafted.One big remote with simple, intuitive buttons lets you move the train forward or backward and plays announcements for the passengers as well as whistle and chugging sounds. The train can also be operated via a new Lionel conductor app, although we haven't tested it yet because the remote is simple to use.The transformer is designed into a single straight piece that connects into the wall and forms an oval with the accompanying track. All you need for setup is a sizable, flat area. (Works less effectively on carpet.)The fact that even our 3-year-old daughter, who generally isn't interested in trains, was as amazed by this toy as her brothers and even my husband and I took turns operating it shows that it is truly a toy of lifetime value that is virtually ageless. This is a ton of fun, but it's more than "just a toy." Definitely the kind of thing you could develop a hobby around.



Lionel End of The Line Express Electric O Gauge Model Train Set w/ Remote and Bluetooth Capability Review:


I adore the train's sound effects and the vivid orange tracks. The engine coupling did present me with a number of problems. And despite the fact that I adore Lionel, their tracks are difficult to put together. The bad news is that the remote doesn't function properly. Is it possible that reverse is truly forward and vice versa? This is the only one of my six Lionel trains with this problem. Before I think about purchasing a replacement, I will first get in touch with product support to see if they can assist me.



Lionel Hogwarts Express Electric O Gauge Model Train Set w/ Remote and Bluetooth Capability Review:


This train set didn't let me down! The carriages are plastic, as is typical for Lionel trains, but the engine and tender are made of metal, allowing the powerful engine to easily pull the lighter cars. The automobiles light up, and the engine is extremely detailed. The train is simple to use and sets up quickly. Running the train is a lot of fun because of the fantastic lights, music, and smoke.The Bluetooth app on my phone works great; however, the remote also functions without Bluetooth, so you are not required to use it. The only drawback is that the track will beep while trying to connect to Bluetooth if you have the remote off but the plug in. It is a little annoying, but I haven't looked in the directions to see whether it can be turned off.The track is a good size for the set (curves to make a 3' circle and four straight pieces), but I purchased it with four extra straight pieces to ensure that it could easily go around the Christmas tree.



Lionel The Polar Express Electric O Gauge Model Train Set w/ Remote and Bluetooth Capability Review:


UPS failed to deliver this train set on schedule. Despite my desire, I'm not going to lower the rating as a result of this.With the exception of the plastic "railing" on the observation vehicle, the train set is solidly constructed (last cart). The tiny plastic pegs that went into the cart's end almost came loose. Very thin! To secure it, I suggest using a small quantity of crazy glue.I placed a second purchase for fastrack so I could create a larger oval. The film also features the HOBO trolley and the Christmas peppermint tank. The engine is quite strong. Currently pulling 6 carts, it is still moving very quickly. The engine is fast—I tested it at top speed. I wouldn't advise running it that quickly because there is a chance it could derail.I didn't make use of the supplied remote. Apple apps perform additional tasks. The smoke maker performed flawlessly when I tested it. The app also lets you manage the smoke. A knowledgeable person about trains advised me to always turn off the engine's reverse function after using it to avoid damaging the smoke maker.For my son, who is 11 years old, I ordered this set. My younger son, who is 7 years old, is not allowed to play with it. I don't suggest letting children under the age of 11 play with this set. Lionel suggests a minimum age of 14, which in my opinion is too high. In the future, I'll undoubtedly include more accessories like manual track switches and bridges.Overall, I like this kit and the quality of the construction. It is undoubtedly expandable, and provided it is maintained and cared for, it should survive for many years.



Bachmann Trains - Santa Fe Flyer Ready To Run Electric Train Set - HO Scale Review:


About a month ago, I bought the Santa Fe Flyer set to gauge my interest in the hobby of model trains. I'll start by saying that I haven't experienced any problems with the wheels coming off, and although it took some time to set up the engine and get it going at first (it needs to be on the rails right), everything has been perfect ever since.HO Scale: It strikes a good balance between not being too little to lose the intricacies and not being too enormous to take up the entire space. The engine is perhaps seven inches long, two inches high, and perhaps one inch wide (measured in inches). Other vehicles have similar or somewhat smaller lengths or heights.rollable stock The engine, three vehicles, and enough track pieces to construct a circle were all included in the set, exactly as it had been described. Although initially difficult due to the diesel engine design that makes it difficult to view the wheels and determine if they are on the tracks, the re-railer does help some (I believe there is also an inexpensive item that sets cars on the rails pretty easily: EZ Railer I think). Since the wheels are comparatively exposed, the other cars are not challenging (again, the rerailer helps set the wheels onto the track properly). The couplings are simple to use and stable. The other cars are made of very light plastic, so handle them with care, even if the engine seems substantial and heavy. Some people think that's an issue, but if you want the engine to be able to move them around the track at any speed or if you want to add additional cars later, the weighting is required. The fine features on the autos give them a sense of reality. Once the train is in place on the track, the transformer makes operating it simple because the train travels smoothly.Tracking: As long as you align it correctly, the EZ track connects and disassembles rather easy. If you enjoy model trains or get interested in them, I would advise acquiring extra curved and straight track to create more fascinating patterns as the original circle fast grows boring. Additionally, it is simpler to align the cars on the rails when there is some straight track. Remember that the HO scale train track is configured to produce a three-foot circle, so if you want a figure eight, an oval, or anything else, you'll need some room (probably at least 6 by 4 foot area depending on your available space). On the plus side, the train doesn't need to be on a table because the track may be laid straight on carpet or other surface as long as you don't have children or dogs that would disturb it.Some have claimed that this train is prone to derailing. I can't speak for their particular circumstances, but I'd advise them to look over their tracks. As severe a curve as Bachmann seems to offer (the 3 foot circle curve), I have personally ran this engine in both forward and backward at peak speed with no cars attached and with all cars attached, and I have only ever had derailments when the track was not connected properly. Whether you discover that the wheels come off easily, slow the train down, check to see if it derails in the same location or locations, turn OFF the power to the train, and run your finger over the rails. You must split and reassemble the track components if the surface is not smooth (either because of gaps or raised areas). After everything is smooth, you shouldn't experience any more issues.Conclusion: For the money, this starting train set has been fantastic. The scale model's size and fine detailing appeal to me. The set has considerable of room to grow in terms of track, rolling stock, and other features. This is a fantastic item to get if you are an enthusiast and have an interest in model trains for you or your children.



Lionel The Christmas Express, Electric O Gauge Model Train Set w/ Remote and Bluetooth Capability Review:


When we ordered this, we actually received the Polar Express variant. Was prepared to return it, but the kids enjoyed it, so we decided to keep it. When they awoke on Christmas morning, it was already set up and running around the Christmas tree. their young faces. They cherished it!



Bachmann Trains - Rail Chief Ready To Run 130 Piece Electric Train Set - HO Scale Review:


For kids or anybody looking for an accessible introduction to model railroading, this beginning train set is quite appealing. A serious model railroader who has higher expectations for quality or details (such as sliding doors on a box car) might not be completely satisfied. The kit is housed in a robust, useful, and simple-to-open box. I'll include images in this evaluation because the stock photos didn't give me enough information to make a decision.One of the set's most attractive railway pieces, the engine includes working (LED, I believe) taillights in addition to its headlights. Some people might be dissatisfied that the lights' brilliance only rises when train speed does. However, the lights enhance the engine's appeal and realism. The engine's construction and quality seem to be quite strong. The remaining automobiles, which range in type and color, enhance the ensemble's allure. The producer wisely selected a good variety of colors and car kinds for a five-piece set. At this pricing tier, the box car does not have sliding doors that open and close. Otherwise, the box vehicle is really appealing. The cars are kept on the track by their evenly distributed weight and low center of gravity. Some less expensive sets contain vehicles that are so light that it is challenging to keep them on the track. Although the weight of the cars and the caliber of the wheels and axels may not satisfy a serious model railroader, they are perfect for this beginner set and most people will be happy with them. The cars and engine are equipped with excellent-working EZ-couplers. Please be aware that the two pieces of straight-track included in the kit are where you must couple the cars. Even the EZ-couplers are challenging to use when trying to couple the vehicles on the curved sections.The included EZ-track is sufficient to create an oval. There are only two straight parts (sections) offered. Your track wouldn't be an oval without the two straight parts; it would be a circle. To create more intricate arrangements, you can purchase additional EZ-track sets. One of the straight parts serves as the speed controller's terminal plugin and rerailer at the same time. It is quite convenient because the speed controller connector may be plugged into either side of the trailer. You MUST USE THE RERAILER to place each of the cars, including the engine, on the track if you are unfamiliar to operating HO-scale trains. In order to ALIGN THE WHEELS FOR YOU, you accomplish this by positioning the engine or automobile on top of the rerailer part and then moving the engine or car back and forth entirely over the rerailer section. Even though it would drive you crazy, you may try to align all the wheels using only your hands and eyes. Use the rerailer section; it really simplifies everything. Despite the ease with which the EZ-track system links, you must still be cautious not to misjoin any portions of track. The train will derail if you do it. Run your fingers back and forth over the connected track portions if you can't immediately see that they are connected properly (turn power off prior to doing this). The connections ought to be seamless. Your finger should snag on misaligned portions. Simply disassemble the track and attempt to reassemble it. Several track layouts that are NOT POSSIBLE, barring the purchase of more track, are shown on the back of the box.There is a signal bridge kit available. Although it looks great, putting it together is a real pain. Only a few pieces of the weak plastic snap together. Other plastic components just lay next to or overlap with one another. In order to get the components to lay perfectly for assembly, I discovered that I needed to file out some of the extra plastic flash. The use of your wife's fingernail file works great, but it necessitates a lot of after-the-fact justification. The eraser on the end of a pencil can be used to push the little plastic rail-traffic lights into position after they have been properly trimmed. The train traffic lights are just translucent plastic, giving the impression that they are illuminated in a well-lit space. These lights do not need electricity. When completed, the signal bridge kit makes a nice-looking object. It can be bought individually for roughly $13.00, but I have to think that for not much more money, there are better kits that truly light up.The plastic piping of the road, rail, and other signs can be easily broken off, but before they can stand up straight, the excess flash needs to be filed off. Each sign is supported by a pedestal with two holes for nailing or attaching it to the floor (nice for building a more permanent layout). Given that they all have black lettering on yellow signs, poles, and pedestals, you might be able to use plastic model enamel paint to give the signs a more natural tone.The HO-scale inhabitants are all pink, just like pigs. You might be able to paint them with enamel modeling paint, as was mentioned for the signage. A number of small-town and rural personalities that seem to have come straight out of the early 20th century are also present. The figures show good detail. The figurines' main flaw, aside from color, is that they are difficult to separate from the plastic tubes to which they are attached. You must employ a set of nippers (wire cutters). The figurines will split in half at the ankles if you try to break them off by hand, leaving their feet attached to the pedestal and attached to the pipes. Fortunately, each figurine is duplicated so you have two of each type.There are numerous telephone poles that are the proper color (brown) and do not require any piping to be broken off of them. Just the poles, no telephone or power lines. But it's still a useful feature.This train set offers a lot of value all in all. The small additions—telephone poles, signs, people, and the signal bridge—are a wonderful touch and can serve as the framework for an excellent beginner layout. You could do much worse than this kit if you only want to make a child happy for a few years or spend the least amount of money feasible to get your first taste of model railroading (I have). If my wife hadn't broken one of my thumbs by using her nail file to remove the flash from the signal bridge kit, I would have given the package two thumbs up. I do give the set five stars, though. Pros and downsides are listed below, but the pros clearly outweigh the cons.Pros -attractive orange and black engineHeadlights on engine get brighter as it speeds upEngine's taillights get brighter as it goes fasterNumerous brown telephone poles with thin pedestals make it simple to tack or nail boards to them (no wires for poles)Numerous HO-scale pink figurines of humans.There are numerous HO-scale yellow road, rail, and other signs.The power supply and wiring appear to be of a high caliber.The speed controller is big, of great quality, and performs admirably.An intricate HO Scale Signal Bridge Kit, which costs about $13.00 separatelyCons -Rerailer track causes train to rise up slightly (section is slightly arched upward), which may result in the engine disconnecting from the cars (does not happen often)Engine is silent (whistle or horn)Engine does not simulate steam or exhaust.Although the EZ-track bed on the box vehicle is attractive, it has no slighting doors and may not be to everyone's taste.Yellow poles and signboards with black text are used for all signs (e.g. stop signs are yellow and black, not red and white).All of the human figures' arms, hands, faces, legs, and clothing are pink (uncertain if they can be painted with enamel paints used for plastic models)Nippers are required since people figures' plastic piping cannot be readily broken off (i.e. wire cutters).To get signs and people to stand up properly, the excess flash on the bottom of the sign-pedestals and people-pedestals needs to be carefully filed off. The sculptures of individuals require the greatest filing.The HO Scale Signal Bridge Kit is difficult to put together. Pieces do not all fit together perfectly and extra flash must be removed, but they eventually hold together. Consider plastic origami.Not all of my photos were posted via the Amazon review system, please note. Later, I'll work on that.



Bachmann Trains - Pacific Flyer Ready To Run Electric Train Set - HO Scale Review:


There should always be an entrance point for individuals new to the sport, even though Bachmann HO trains are seen more as "toys" by the professional HO model railroad community than as accurate replicas of real prototype railroads. Bachmann accurately and affordably satisfies entry-level, "new hobbyist" desire.The set includes a steam locomotive (a Union Pacific RR 0-6-0 with a working headlight and slope-back tender), two freight cars (a gondola and a boxcar with real sliding doors), and a "generic" caboose in Union Pacific livery—everything a child or adult needs to start modeling. A 36-inch circle of curved "Snap-Fit E-Z track" is also included in this set, as is customary with comprehensive, affordable train sets (18-inch radius curve segments, black roadbed). Young people in particular can easily align and push the tracks together with the "Snap-Fit E-Z track" technology, and they snap into place, making it immediately useful on floors, carpets, or wooden platforms without much effort. The tracks are nickel-silver for a more realistic appearance and don't corrode or get tarnished as much as the old brass rails did. The Bachmann "E-Z Mate" knuckle couplers allow the cars to pair with each other (somewhat compatible with HO professional modelers standard "Kaydee" style knuckle couplers). A generic DC power pack (speed controller) with wiring, a power indicator light, and a direction switch is also included in the kit. The plug-in terminal "re-railer" that powers the train is located on one of the curving rails. (A piece of track that has embedded guides between and outside the track rails is referred to as a "re-railer." The track quickly aligns the unit's wheels inside the rails so that trains can roll on the tracks by just setting the car or locomotive down on it and rolling it back and forth a few times. There's no need to strain your eyes or carefully adjust the wheel trucks.)Use your best judgment when determining who the kit is designed for since it states "ages 14 " yet I started building trains when I was 7-8 years old. With the acquisition of some extra 9-inch straight tracks and a pair of turn-outs (often and IMPROPERLY called "switches"), one may start to create all kinds of track layouts because the kit is R-T-R (Ready-to-Run), meaning that nothing needs to be extensively assembled.Additionally, I urge you to purchase the Bachmann E-Z Track Expander Set, which includes 2 Hayes bumpers (to place at the ends of short stub tracks or sidings off the main line), left and right powered turnouts, 9-inch straight track (4 pieces), 18-inch radius curved track (4 pieces), and both left and right powered turnouts. Get a few HO model railroading reference books, some buildings, figures, and a 4x8 foot piece of plywood, then join MILLIONS of us in unwinding while watching the trains enter and exit tunnels, go down mainlines, switch tracks, and "carry goods" in your own miniature world. Similar to ANY pastime, your budget will be the limiting factor, but your creativity will allow you to go above that.



Bachmann Trains - Thoroughbred Ready To Run Electric Train Set - HO Scale Review:


Well-packaged directions for the train were included. Knowing that this is not a "TOY," we took our time and properly set up the tracks. Because the track components and the linkages connecting the cars are delicate and perhaps brittle, I took great care to prevent us from bending them. My two-year-old daughter startled us all by asking Santa for a train three days before Christmas, so I hurried to buy her this train. It arrived on schedule thanks to Santa's Amazon Prime membership, allowing us to set it up under our tree on Christmas Eve. I got the wonderful idea to purchase her a model train rather than a toy train because I remember having a train like this under our tree when I was a kid. I was a little concerned that she might want to touch the train and the little pieces might break, but as I demonstrated how to use the controls, she became more interested in that than in picking up the train itself. This is a fantastic product, and if you plan to buy it to use it with a young child, you should play with them first. We used some of her foam blocks to construct bridges so the train could pass underneath. In order to halt the train and pick up fictitious passengers, we constructed a station. I believe you can make this train engaging enough for your youngster to leave it on the tracks if you take the time with them and use your imagination. The included original track is the ideal size to fit under our tree. The tracks have a little larger circumference than our 7.5' tree. Because the power cable connecting the control box to the tracks is not tightly fitted, it can break if it is bumped excessively. But the cure is really simple. Overall, I am ecstatic about this train. My husband wanted her to have one so she could pick it up and not destroy it, but I prefer the actual motion of this train, which travels on its own. Also a fan of this train is my daughter. even if she is unable to lift it up and move it around!


Is Lionel trains going out of business?

No, Lionel trains are not going out of business. The company has been in business for over 120 years and is a well-known and respected brand in the model train industry. Lionel trains are known for their quality, durability, and attention to detail, and are a favorite among model train enthusiasts.

Is model railroading a good hobby?

Many people believe that model railroading is a good hobby because it can be very relaxing and enjoyable. It can also be a great way to bond with family and friends. Additionally, model railroading can be a great way to learn about different cultures, geography, and history.

Is model railroading still popular?

What does HO stand for in model trains?

HO scale trains are a popular size for model railroads. The "HO" stands for "half o" or 1:87. This means that an HO scale train is half the size of an O scale train. HO scale trains are popular because they are a good size for most homes and they are less expensive than some of the other sizes.

What gauge is Lionel trains?

What gauge model train is best?

There is no definitive answer to this question as different people have different preferences. Some people prefer smaller, more intricate gauge models, while others prefer larger ones that are more durable. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide what is best for them.