Setting up a working layout, outside, this time of year could be an iffy proposition.
I guess I was spoiled by the Timonium show. Other trains shows I've been to tend to be mostly Lionel and a box of HO stock with horn hook couplers.
Henry
COB Potomac & Northern
Shenandoah Valley
Train shows are great. I probably bought half my trains at train shows. They are a good place for old NIB (New In Box) trains, which in these days of limited runs can be hard to find.
But you do have to know who is putting on the shows. Some are very targeted to specific parts of the hobby like TCA's toy train shows. Some are small local shows which can have some great prices or be a bust. Some are big general shows.
Personally, I enjoy going to all the shows and seeing what they have. Though after 50 years in the hobby and having more stuff than I can use, I seldom buy much.
Going with my middle son who is into Lionel 3 rail gauge is always great.
Paul
maxman richhotrain I think maxman is correct. Wow, probably the first time this year. Don't tell my "boss".
richhotrain I think maxman is correct.
Wow, probably the first time this year. Don't tell my "boss".
Rich
Alton Junction
I buy most of my rolling stock and structures at train shows. The price is right. They may need some paint, some details, couplers, whatever, but they go on the layout and look good, for half the price of buying them new. And the last hobby shop up here closed 10 years ago. So it is either train shows or ordering from Walthers at full list price.
David Starr www.newsnorthwoods.blogspot.com
richhotrainI think maxman is correct.
Dave K TSA was right
TSA was right
TCA – Fort Pitt - Home Page (hobbytraincollectors.org)
Never been to a train show, and from what I hear and read, never one to attend one.
Dave K Ft. Pitt Chapter TSA.
I'm surprised that the members of the TSA were able to take time off from their jobs frisking passengers at the airports to have a train show.
Oh, you meant TCA. I believe they are primarily large scale. Probably not the best venue for your interests.
Near Pittsburgh, Pa. Outside venue. Ft. Pitt Chapter TSA. Selling some Nscale train stuff. Very disappointed. Mostly Lionel, O and LGB scales. Many collectors and Ebay flippers. Few had working layouts. Has the hobby evolved into a collector one?
Dave K.