I've seen in the past some discussion of this topic, and I would like to voice an opinion. In my area there are two local hobby shops. I recently brought a non-working MTH engine into one. By the time I returned home, I had a call on my machine that the repair was complete, and I could pick it up any time. When I did, I bought a few other items for my layout and added these to the meager charge for the repaired engine. I have brought other items, including a postwar lionel collection to both of these shops and was treated fairly and honestly every time. I also purchase items at these shops, although the price may be a little higher than one would find on e-Bay or internet shopping. To me it's worthwhile. Not only does it help the owners, but it gives me another local friend in the hobby and a sense of pride to support the community. I know that if I have a problem with anything purchased, it can be returned, no questions asked. Have you tried to return anything purchased by internet lately? It's not always easy.
I have also purchased by mail order. I've found many of the large retailers to be quite good, and have done a fair amount of business with Trainworld(no affiliation). I've found them and others to be good,timely, and quite reasonable. I've had some bad internet transactions also, but they've been infrequent.
The bottom line for me is I think there is a need for both types of retailers, but all things being equal, I like to support the local guy.
I fully agree with supporting the local guy. I a local shop that is less than 5 miles from my house. For most items their prices are as low as the internet retailers. Plus I can touch and feel right there in the shop.
Jerry
Wish I had a local shop to turn to. I'd be there every week.
I'd set one up myself in an empty store front I own, but it does not seem to fit the requirements set forth by the "big guys".
Rod L.
There are so many hobby/train stores in my area that it makes the most sense to buy local. However, I'll buy online or mail order if the price is right or if they have something the local yokels do not have.
Jim
Modeling the Baltimore waterfront in HO scale
I like to buy locally as I can return something a lot sooner if it don't work. Sometimes I can't find things locally so I do some internet buying or telephone orders. Miami FL is about 65 miles away but it takes some gas or MONEY to drive down there and back, so I limit my direct buying from Miami.
Occasionally I go to Choo Choo Auctions to buy something in my favorite railroad.
When ordering Williams I have little choice but to use a local dealer to get a real good price, even below internet wholesale prices.
Lee F.
My closest Hobby SHop is over 3hrs away. I wish I had one near by, but without that, most of my purchases have been through one trusted place that has a web site auction and a store in NJ. One of the benefits to this is that they know me and can put a face to the phone call.
dennis
TCA#09-63805
I have made purchases on "E-Bay" from TRAINZ. Also, in person at TRAINWORLD, Brooklyn NY and TRAINLAND, Lynbrook NY, both of which are not located in my immediate area. I think these would be considered large train retailers. All my transactions were very smooth.
My Local Hobby Shops: One has gone out of business-owner retired. Another has decided to only sell train stuff at holiday time. A third, has eliminated trains and is concentrating on airplanes, race cars and art supplies.
There is a 'flea market' type shop that has train "junk" when he gets it.
This situation really supports going "Large". Thanks for asking.
Our best local train store in Columbus caters to N and HO. Has a very small amount of Lionel and LGB. It is not worth my time to go in to look because they use MSRP.
The other stores located close to me are "chain" type stores. One has nothing and the other has one shelf of O scale. A store that shut down last year has resurfaced in a new location and new name. I believe they are going to be good again.
I have purchased my O and G equipment from many different sources. My favorite store is 35 miles away in Lancaster, Ohio, but they do not handle many TMCC products. They do have a huge selection of cars and accessories. Most of the my electronics has been puchased at Davis Trains in Cincinnati. I also used Train Buddies for a special order. Just purchased from MA and PA last month. Glenn's in Akron has everything if you are small enough to fit through the aisles. Train City is a store in Erie, PA that I like to visit when I am heading in that direction. They have great used equipment.
Celebrating 18 years on the CTT Forum.
Buckeye Riveter......... OTTS Charter Member, a Roseyville Raider and a member of the CTT Forum since 2004..
Jelloway Creek, OH - ELV 1,100 - Home of the Baltimore, Ohio & Wabash RR
TCA 09-64284
I really have a lot of hobby shops near me as I live between Cleveland Oh.& Erie, Pa. The nearest one though is at our mall in Ashtabula, Oh. & is also near where I work. Their prices are all retail & sometimes above, but when I got a new TPC, I noticed they had one & had it for a long time so I asked them if they would match or even get close to the big ten prices !! They asked me how much that would be & I told them & they said OK !! You never know unless you ask & I wouldn't ask for a discount on the regular items like scenery materials & all or even cars or buildings.
Thanks, John
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