Hi Joe
I would suggest starting with a normal start set and getting an extra car with the christmas theme.
It is my opinion that the normal start set represents better value as you don't have to put it away till next year after christmas
I classify a christmas train as an in motion christmas decoration that must be put away with the rest of the festive decorations by the first of the new year so you would only have to pack away the christmas car instead of the whole set.
Just a different line thought on the matter (I am not superstitious I tell you)
regards John
Welcome to the forum!
I don't have much to add apart from repeating that Lionell is almost non existant as far as garden railways go. The heavy hitters have been mentioned, LGB, Aristo-Craft, etc and any of them are a good place to start.
Beware the Bachmann track, it's crap for outdoor use, but the starter sets are otherwise a good way to break into the hobby on a budget. I still use everyday my Bachmann 10 wheeler I bought with a starter set for a closeout price 6 years ago. So far it shows no signs of quitting.
My personal suggestion is to purchase an LGB starter set. If you are savvy you can get a great deal on a gently used set or even a deep discount on new. I say this because LGB is easy to find at any hobby store and is ready complete for outdoor use, which is a big plus to a newbie. Later on you can purchase whatever else you like. If budget looms large with you, get the Bachmann set and some brass Aritso-craft track (also available at any hobby store). Either way you are off to a good start.
The Dixie D Short Line "Lux Lucet In Tenebris Nihil Igitur Mors Est Ad Nos 2001"
Aristo-Craft and LGB each make starter sets that include outdoor track. The Aristo sets seem to be a little bit cheaper and come with a basic remote control, which is a nice feature, but I don't know if there's a specific "Christmas" set.
LGB is the "big name" in outdoor railroads, and that's what most people start with.
Hi Joe,
Glad you are joining the big trains out doors I see there are good surgestions may I add for good running I would recomend LGB track and turnouts mine have been out side for over 5 years and i`ve had no problems with it. If you want any info and you feel I can help post it and I`ll reply
Age is only a state of mind, keep the mind active and enjoy life
You're getting hooked now, the link is to a atarter set by LGB, I bought it for £170 in the UK so it should go pretty cheap in the States. As said, outdoor quality track is what it's all about.
Kim
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b6cf05b3127cce8f25f2a1d2db00000016108QbM2jJyxcO
WELCOME to the Hobby Joe,
Forgot to mention that before. I also forgot to mention that if you are a member of Sam's Club or know someone that is , thay have a Bachmann set on sale but remember that you will still have to buy some quality OUTDOOR track. Other manufactures also have STARTER SETS that come complete with BRASS track and the transformer with speed control.
Good Luck,
Ron
OK Ron, thanks. I see I have a lot to learn.
Joe
Sorry Joe,
The big names in GARDEN RAILROADING is Aristo Craft, Bachmann, LGB and MTH. But one thing you want to be sure to remember is that you want to use either BRASS or STAINLESS STEEL TRACK. I am sure that other folks will pop in here and provide you with more advice then I have given you. Hope this is a help and GOOD LUCK.
Happy Railroading,
Kim,
Thanks for the reply. One more question though if you don't mind. You say you don't see much Lionel. Aren't they the big name even in the outdoor trains? Should I be considering other brand names when I get started?
Big welcome to a new starter. We don't see much Lionel over here so I wouldn't even try to advise you on the two you mention, whatever you do though, make sure it is made for outside running and is 45mm guage. The rest, as they say, is up to you. Once you get outside we can give you plenty of advice!
Cheers,
Hello,
Brand new to this & I'd like to startoff with an outdoor Christmas train set up. I like both the Silver Bell Express & the new Christmas Express by Lionel(I might have that name a little wrong). Any reason to prefer one over the other?
Thanks,
Joe Healy
Matthews, NC
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