What are your Occupations/Jobs

[Anonymous]

Now medically retired I live off a small long term disablity payment and "GranMa's" Wages. My budget is slim pickin's but I manage to squeeze about $80-$100/mo.

[DavidH]

I think you would have to define "rich". I spend probably between 3 and 4 thousand dollars a year Canadian (2300 - 3100 US) and I am not rich by any stretch of the imagination, although I suspect you would think I am if I told you my income . . .

David

[Anonymous]

I'm not a heavy hitter and in the 15% tax bracket.

One new steamer, the Spectrum HW Mountain. Vehicles , people, three bldgs , grave yard and MR magazine

Somewhere betwwen $350 and $450..

[Hawks05]

work at a pizza place. i'm only 17 though so thats why i don't have a good job. i make like $250 a month then have to pay for my car which is $100 and gas which is about $50 a month. in the end i get about $100 to save but mostly that goes to eating and CDs.

[vsmith]

I'm an architect, which in reality, means I'm poorer than dirt most of the time. (sorry to dissapoint, rich architects only exist in the movies) . Between house, cars, insurance, bills, and the wife, there aint much left over for my toys, but I manage a little treat every now and then ( I found two new LGB porter engines at a local discount liquidator for $40 each and was over the moon excited, my wife thought I was NUTS!).

[CBQ_Guy]

I've been what they call "retired due to disability" going back over three years now. Naturally, my income has been curtailed compared to what it was when I had a job. Luckily, the vast majority of my RR purchases took place while I was still employed. Since I am modeling a specific RR at a specific time, the amount of motive power and rolling stock is somewhat limited by that, so I don't have to keep running out and trying to keep up with it all in the past couple years. That's one good thing about picking a focus in what you're modeling, I suppose.

I didn't get my disability status automatically after I applied, in fact I had to hire a lawyer and go before a Federal judge to win my case. Consequently, I received an intital lump sum payment going back 27 months, so I just budgeted some of this for the layout. Now I can pay to have some of the room prep done I can't do myself anymore. Also, a big expense will be all the lumber, track and switches (turnouts?) I'll have to get to build the layout. But it's all in the budget.

In the past I've spent as much as $300-400 in one trip to the train store, but that's rare. It seemed in the past I was spending maybe $200-300 per month. Lately, though, since I'm trying to live on a budget from my fixed disability income, I' m averaging, maybe, $100-150 per month. It's not hard to spend that much if you're not careful either, though, so let's be careful out there!

[Anonymous]

Elementatary school phys ed teacher. I spend about 80$ to 100$ a month on the hobby.

[Catt]

I am a CNC lathe operator.I am a long ways from rich.I spend anywhere from $0.00 a month to maybe $200.00 a month.

Oh yeah,my yearly income is around 25k.

[Anonymous]

Like Vsmith, I am an architect, and not rich. However, I am still single and living in a cheaply-rented house for the moment (planning to purchase a home in near future), so I am at a decent net-positive cash flow for the moment. Of course, nominally I am saving up for the future house downpayment, but realistically I'm indulging my every modeling whim at the moment. I just spent probably $400 at the last two train shows, in the past month, and I've spent as much on Ebay as well, and there's no stopping me!

I should mention, too, that just tonight I have postponed a grocery-shopping trip for one more day. I have no qualms about spending on trains, yet I shy away from buying food...

[Hawks05]

well i had to work and try and get some money but instead i got a major stomach ache so i had to come home. i was at work for 40 minutes. hopefully though i'll have some time to look at stuff i'd like to buy and finally plan my bench work.

[nfmisso]

Mechanical Design Engineer.

[preceng]

I am a civil engineer specializing in land development design. Like my friends listed above my family obligations take up most of my fun money (need to teach my kid to skip some meals). i probably average $50-$100 a month. This includes gifts, which my wife informs everyone I prefer gift certificates to one ofthe two local hobby stores.

[Anonymous]

I work for a wood truss manufacturing company. I only make 25K a year and buying the only two Katos I own was only accomplished by saving up money.

Thanks,
Jeremy

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Hawks05
and CDs.

I didn't realize that CD's came in that small of a denomination.

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by nfmisso

Mechanical Design Engineer.

And I thought you were a full time consultant to the world's greatest hobby.

[Anonymous]

I am a full time college student that fortunatly qualifies for alot of college scholorships and grant money. It was with the leftovers from fall semester and combined birthday present money that I was able to purchase my first 5 brass pieces, (Two Vista Domes and a Baggage car in GN big sky blue, and two BN (Former GN) Cabooses) And I still have about $200.00 left over that I am saving for until I find something I want.

I also work a job, which provides some money to my cause, and I also run a custom paint/model railroad design business. However that takes a back seat to classes and all my customers presently on my waiting list are aware of that fact. (However It seems everytime I turn around. present clients are adding more, and new cliants are signing up. I have eneugh work to keep me busy for a solid 6 months at this point)

When I get out of college I plan to expand into model manufacuring.

Due to the very cheap circumstances of my location I am able to make a dollar streatch quite a bit. Plus I NEVER pay list price for anything on my model railroad except those things if I wait around for the lower price I probably won't get one.

Plus I enjoy scratch building. I can build 8 boxcars for the price of one of the RTR offerings from Athearn these days.

James.

[Anonymous]

I'm 12 so my jobs are leaf raking, lawn mowing, snow shoveling , dog sitting and baby sitting. I had to save for several months but I think i might have close to 200 dollars to pend at the Oklahoma City Train Show here in a couple weeks. my income is not large so my proggress on my new layout will be limited.

Alex in the sooner state

[Hawks05]

QUOTE: Originally posted by locomotive3

QUOTE: Originally posted by Hawks05
and CDs.

I didn't realize that CD's came in that small of a denomination.

do you realize i'm talking about music CDs. i have total right now probably close to 175-200 music CDs. thats my best guess.

[Anonymous]

I drive tractor trailer...amazingly i make a great deal of money...but it makes up for itself im never home...if i didnt have this nifty cell phone that i could use as a modem to get online on my downtime id go nuts. And to be honest i hate driving a truck and i hate driving...but the moeny is to good...id never be able to make this kinda money doing anything else.

What do i spend per month on trains? Well at the Greenburg show this past saturday i dropped about $800. Id say i spend between $3500 and $7500 a year on trains if not more...but...i only have a car payment, insurance on that car, and a cell phone payment...as i said im never home so i never bothered to move out of my parents house..i mean why waste money on my own place if im never there. So i can spend more than if i lived on my own.

Johnny Dash 9

[Anonymous]

I am a construction management student. I spend about 2500 a year. Hey, I work and save a bunch.

[douginut]

Technical support engineer.
average 50-60 bucks a month
but it adds up over time.


Doug, in Utah

[eastcoast]

As many others have expressed, I am not a millionaire. I just bought a new
dream home after all my life as an adult dealing with landlords and rent.
My family and I settled down and planted roots this time. I HAVE BILLS.
You ask what I do when I am not model railroading ???? I have been in
the profession of SECURITY/ LOSS PREVENTION for 13 years now. I have
worked hard to stay in this career field, believe me. At current, I am a Federal
Security Officer for a VERY recognizable landmark. I AM PROUD TO SERVE.

I find that saving a little money at a time is best and strive to keep my hobby
spending in check. But , sometimes I realize I can go over budget.
I have been collecting my trains and accessories for 18 years and have ridden
the roller coaster of life, like millions of us do. Model Railroading is my peace.

[Anonymous]

Sound Technician. I do some lighting and video as well

[krump]

that's classified, well "almost" [;)] criminal[:p][:D][:D][:D]

[Jetrock]

I'm a social worker (I work at a residential facility for homeless mentally ill adults.) My other part-time "job" is as a musician and experimental-music promoter/nightclub manager.

[Anonymous]

I am an insurance agent and earlier this year I opened my own little one man agency. Not a lot of money at this point, but I'm an old hand at sales and expect to build it up in relatively short order. I spend from $10.00 to $100.00 per month on the hobby. In the past couple of years I have tried to become more focused in my purchasing, buying only those things which directly contribute to the era I am currently modeling. That way I don't come home from a show or the hobby shop with both a 40 foot PS-1 boxcar and a string of well cars for double stacks. Instead I bite my tongue, kick myself and otherwise force myself to buy only that which relates to current modeling efforts. Strangely enough, I find the discipline it takes to manage yourself in a self employed situation is easier than applying the same discipline to the hobby.

Cheers!

Ed

[willy6]

retired USN,work as service advisor for an automotive service center.spend $50-$100 month on the hobby.

[FJ and G]

Retired USMC 74-95

Now, editor, The Military Engineer in Alexandria VA

[Anonymous]

I'm a certified welder for a trailer manufacturer. My Husband is a laborer for the same place.

Since we are just starting in this hobby, we are probably going to spend close to $1000 before year end.

Cindy

[Anonymous]

field engineer for a software comp.. i spent about 600 to 1200 a year

[vsmith]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Avondaleguy

Like Vsmith, I am an architect, and not rich. However, I am still single and living in a cheaply-rented house for the moment (planning to purchase a home in near future), so I am at a decent net-positive cash flow for the moment. Of course, nominally I am saving up for the future house downpayment, but realistically I'm indulging my every modeling whim at the moment. I just spent probably $400 at the last two train shows, in the past month, and I've spent as much on Ebay as well, and there's no stopping me!

I should mention, too, that just tonight I have postponed a grocery-shopping trip for one more day. I have no qualms about spending on trains, yet I shy away from buying food...

Hey Avondaleguy,

A fellow Artichoke!

Where did you go to Architorture school at.

I'm Cal Poly Pomana '89.

Vic

[brothaslide]

I own a document imaging company (small business - www.twinimaging.com). Don't spend any money on the hobby as money is scarce right now. I read the hobby mags though.

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by krump

that's classified, well "almost" [;)] criminal[:p][:D][:D][:D]

You probably got your start as a HOBO and thats what got you into the World's Greatest Hobby.

[Anonymous]

MiniCG you dont work for Fontaine do you???? If you do i have a complaint [:D][:D][:D][:D][:D]

[trollw]

Electrical Engineer - I am responsible for system integration and system testing on new airborne radar systems. I average $80-100 per month but generally spend it in 2 or 3 chunks during the year.

[scotttmason]

Designer, production artist, illustrator, webmaster, photographer; oh, I make the coffee too.
$50-150 per year but am planning to win the MR Annual Spending spree, $3000 wasn't it...
Wouldn't it be the Greatest if they split it 6 ways! That would cover my expenditures for 5 years.

[BRAKIE]

Me I just a lowly forklift driver that works union and unload trucks or if I get lucky boxcars(only if the guy that does that calls off or goes on vacation) I spend to much money on trains..But I can do that..You see I am a bachelor.In 4 years 3 months at the age of 60 I will become a full time model railroader and Railfan bid a fond farewell to propane fumes,bosses and truckers.

[cp1057]

I work in Quality Assurance for a manufacturing company and have a background in Electronics Technology. That comes in handy when wiring my layout (Yes, I can solder!) My wife is at home with our 2 kids right now which makes things mighty tight financially, but I suppose I spend about $300 canadian a year, sometimes less if things are really bad. That's around $200 US bucks.

Charles
Hillsburgh Ontario

[cmitcham]

engineer at the parent company of EMD. once, i got called to help with an engine-related project at EMD's engine build plant in chicago. the place is absolutely amazing.

so anyway, as you might recall from a couple of weeks ago, i'm just returning to the hobby after many years, so there's alot i need to spend money on. i'm no rich guy, but this is alot funner than when i was twelve, and had to mow yards for two to three weekends to have enough money to get one snap switch.

calvin.

[rambo1]

I am an aircraft assembler in toronto canada . Every so often the wife lets me purchase a proto 2000 loco or kit depending how much I let her spend on shoes. rambo1.........

[Anonymous]

Turd herder [:D]-plumber, mostly commercial and industrial. Get to see some neat stuff sometimes.

[Anonymous]

I am a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer and I work for a fairly well know bank which employs roughly 130,000 people. I don't have much of a train budget YET but I imagine I'll have one when I get married in May 2004.

In the past 12 months I've spent $4,300 on a fleet of 44 locomotives and 202 rolling stock. Since this is my first year of model railroading, I spent an additional $1,500 on benchwork, track, PECO turnouts, a DCC system, 30+ decoders, and other misc. hobby supplies and accessories.

During the spring/summer/fall months, my money goes towards racing motocross although I'm thinking of giving that up for a while in favor of starting a family and being safe so that I can be a stable provider for them.

[Anonymous]

I fix air compressors (big ones, average size is 100hp). I go to factorys and take care of the air compressors, from changing filters to major repairs. (I perform under pressure). I make about C$50 K a year. However, I only spend about zero to $50.00 a month. Thats because I like the resin kits. It takes me about 20 to 30 hours to build one. Also I am cheap Dutchman so I will never buy RTR.

[krump]

QUOTE: Originally posted by locomotive3

QUOTE: Originally posted by krump

that's classified, well "almost" [;)] criminal[:p][:D][:D][:D]

You probably got your start as a HOBO and thats what got you into the World's Greatest Hobby.

[^] close, but not quite Chuck. I work on the wrong side of the tracks (Probation Officer), but every now and then they give me a 'get out of jail FREE' card. [:)]
Have a good weekend all.

[Hawks05]

hopefully i'll make some money as a Journalist or history teacher to help out my train collection after i graduate.

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Johnnydash9

MiniCG you dont work for Fontaine do you???? If you do i have a complaint [:D][:D][:D][:D][:D]

Nope. But I'll give you a hint. Does "duraplate" sound familiar?

Cindy

[Anonymous]

I am a millwright and I spend approximately 200 or more every month[:)]. Right now I am out of work in my occupation [:(]so I set up my garage as a wood shop and build furnature in my spare time[:)] . I have a 32' X 3' layout consisting or three towns a turntable and railyard , mountains trees and every train being CP steam era. I live in the steam capital of Canada and love it here. But occupation shouldn't have anything to do with expendature ! [:0]You have to have a theme to what you are building [:0]that's where you may be just collecting and <a onMouseOver="self.status='http://www.trains.com/spending';return true;" onMouseOut="self.status=''; return true;" onClick="window.open('http://lo45.com/kwin?cl=K8L7G7ES6L043LO1CL4FYVXH04JTAUEU&mcl=ae540e09c1a03050d0640f38990dcc0a&kw=spending','_new', 'toolbar=no,menubar=no,location=no,resizable=yes,scrollbars=yes');" href="#">spending</a> money in places where it need not be.[:0] Pick an era or time frame where you can research and take it from there[?].

[Anonymous]

Currently I spend no money on this hobby yet, I want to but I'm still planning things out. I overplan everything in my life which probably makes me good at my job. I am a manufacturing engineer and company administrator. I do everything from drawing prints to designing the process to make it and I also build/maintain the companies computers system and machine program network. I'm very busy and wear alot of hats but I prefer it that way. I spent 5 years after college graduation just "designing" and that wasn't enough for me. I work for a small company now 60+ people and don't get paid as much as other people in my field do (45K a year) but alot of the rewards are of accomplishment, I love my job and that is worth money to me. I plan to spend as much as needed to accomplish my "vision" of a MRR but for now the only money being spent is gas to the local hobby store to look and the occasional book or magazine.

[coalminer3]

mining

What money, by the time mom, kids, and dogs get done with it (LOL). I "get out" maybe twice a year, and budget for those "buying trips."

work safe

[GerFust]

Career Coach for MBAs at a top university. It's fun work - nice to do what you enjoy (wouldn't expect less from someone who claims to be a career coach, eh?)

-Jer

[Anonymous]

I'm an architect with a small firm in St. Louis and a musician with the church I belong to. Contrary to the popular image of those professons, I don't make the big bucks, but I don't starve either. My model RR spending is minimal as I make decisions as to the nature of the layout I want to build. My house is small with no basement (but it's paid for!) so space is tight. I'd like to build something small but high quality, but I also have a teenage son getting close to college age, so creative use of what I have will be high on the priority list.

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Nope. But I'll give you a hint. Does "duraplate" sound familiar?

Ya know...i have never heard anyone complain about Waba***railers...personally i dont pull dry van...and never will (im not a door swinger). I pull a 48 spread axle flat....a Fontaine...and i just wanted to vent about it a little LOL

[FThunder11]

I spend what ever i can. probably about $200-$300 a year unless im buying something like a locomotive. And I don't even have a job. I a kid who gets my money from allowence, and all of it goes to my railroad. I have a 4x8in my room that looks pretty good.

[Anonymous]

Like brakie

i am just a lowly forklift operator for the Kalil Bottling Co.restocking the warhouse full of soda in all shapes and sizes
from 6pk cans up to 2ltr bottles so the drivers can go out and deliver it to you local grocery/convienience store

i hav not bought anything in the last 6 months or so due to extremely tight buget what all i do make 99.9 goes to rent utils. car gas and insurs. leaving me with maybe 20 bucks a month to live on top ramen mac and cheeze for me ya know

Regards

Larry

[preceng]

I'm surprised. No male prostitutes among us? Fred Garvin must not subscribe. I was intersested in the occupation, but did not have the body, personality, or other required traits. Oh well, I'll staywith MRR'ing

[vw-bug]

I'm a really poor ex-college student turned intern-architect. right now, I have bills to my eyeballs to I spend about $0.00 lately. I haven't even been to the Hobby store or any shows b/c I figure I might have a mental break down.

[Anonymous]

After a 17-year career in journalism, including a year at MR as an associate editor and nine months as an independent contractor writing for Trains.com, I launched a new career late last spring as an insurance agent. It's going well; I was offered a promotion yesterday to sales trainer for all of central and part of eastern Washington. The money is especially good, and I'm on a path to retire in 14 years at age 55. I'll have the means in a couple years to construct whatever size layout I wi***o, in any scale I choose. Probably OO scale British Railways circa 1950. Right now I'm quite happy with my room-sized HO scale switching layout, for which I spend about $50 a month.

Journalism had its rewards, but money wasn't one of them. At the end of the day it's overall quality of life for my family that matters, and building real wealth in my new profession is the vehicle to that end, as well as the means to building my dream layout.[^]

Paul Schmidt

[Z For Me]

43 years old and retired.
I was severly injured on the job five years ago changing my life forever.
Prior to becoming diabled I was a Chemical Operator processing nuclear fuel for commercial nuclear power plants. Was making over well over 50K and man do I miss the money but also the ability to work.
Right now I only collect old locos and cars in HO and can't spend too much ca***hese days because my wife and I are starting a family. Low bills and we own a home on three acres up in the hills in NE Nevada at 6500 feet. It has been snowing for the last three weeks so we are settling in for a long and brutal winter. Perfect time to start my first layout after being interested in the hobby since I was seven. I have subscibed to MR since the early 70s but have never laid a single rail of track. Nows the time don't you think?
That's all folks!
Mark

[Anonymous]

Retired giggolo[:D]
No really
Customer Service Manager for a large GM dealership. Sounds great, but after taxes, bills, ins, a new roof on the house, all 3 kids needing braces, and this weeks disaster (Its new every week), I don't spend nearly what I would want to. I probabably average about $100-150 a month, and a large chunk of that comes from doing paint and dcc installs for other modelers.
And the GM thing brings no special favors, my favorite diesels are still Alcos![^]

[Anonymous]

I'm a structural engineer and project manager for a medium sized construction company. After 30 years of marraige and rearing a family I started back into HO railroading using my 40 year old track and equipment. I probably spend about $30 a month and rely on a lot of help from my 3 year old granddaughter. I'm more into creating the scenary and structures than I am into operations and my expenses reflect this.

[krump]

QUOTE: Originally posted by pschmidt700

I launched a new career late last spring as an insurance agent. It's going well; I was offered a promotion yesterday to sales trainer for all of central and part of eastern Washington. The money is especially good, and I'm on a path to retire in 14 years at age 55.
Paul Schmidt

Congrats Paul. (I hope I didn't mess up the quotation - new at that)

[Anonymous]

I've been a truck driver for the last 20 years. I've always been into trains as long as I can remember. I had a Tyco set I got for Xmas one year. I nailed the track to 4x8 sheet of plywood and played for hours. I'm 43 now. I had mentioned to my wife that when I retired I was going to build a model railroad,something I always wanted to do. That Xmas she bought me a loco and three cars and now she's a train widow. That was three years ago. I only work on my layout in the winter mos. as I'm too busy in summer. If you averaged it out I probably spend $25-50 a mo.

[Anonymous]

I'm a nures ane spend between $0-$500 a month depending on what i'm doing

[Anonymous]

I'm retired at age 58, and liking it better and better each day, As for dollars spent, well last year that would have been around 1000-1500 for the year, and I've been in Modelrailroading, both Euro and American since 1953, or about 50 years if my figgeren is correct.....D

[Anonymous]

I own a Mechanical\Electrical contracting business, spend around 700-1000 ann. ,the wife and I wish we had more time than money to spend on this hobby

Weave

[Anonymous]

What I do: Technolgy Wrangler (make the stuff work no matter what)
What I spend: More than I tell my Wife, but still less than retail

[Anonymous]

I am an IT Manager at a HUGE retailer. I have my model RR start-up money burning a hole in my pocket!

[bogeys]

I carry the mail. This is my fourth layout. I spend about a grand a year, although that may increase with all the new steamers coming out soon!

[krump]

QUOTE: Originally posted by emeraldisle

I've been in Modelrailroading, both Euro and American since 1953, or about 50 years if my figgeren is correct.....

...exactly how many years would that be in Canadian, given the exchange rate? Or, it's possible, that maybe I misunderstood you[:D] (happy retirement)

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by charliep

I'm a structural engineer and project manager for a medium sized construction company. After 30 years of marraige and rearing a family I started back into HO railroading using my 40 year old track and equipment.

If you are still using brass track and brass wheels on your locos, MAAS, a 2 oz, $3.00 paste, is a
good cleaner for both.

In the absence of that product in your area, a stronger cleaner, polishing compound(not rubbing compound) found in your automotive section. I use both products on nickel silver.

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by krump

QUOTE: Originally posted by emeraldisle

I've been in Modelrailroading, both Euro and American since 1953, or about 50 years if my figgeren is correct.....

...exactly how many years would that be in Canadian, given the exchange rate? Or, it's possible, that maybe I misunderstood you[:D] (happy retirement)

I think the current exchange rate is around 1.25% so that would make 50 American years, 62.5 Canadian years. D@*%, I think I like the American years better.[:D][:D][:D]

[Anonymous]

i do a paper run and work at the garden shop on sundays and mow the lawns and i spend $300--to---$400 a year plus i get given heaps by my uncel so i get more like $800 a year.

Cody
12 Y/O

New Zealand

[dave9999]

I am self employed in construction. I specialize garages,sheds and decks. Alot of work here in Pensacola,
Fl. This town in growing everday, and everyone needs outdoor storage!

[MAbruce]

Treasury manager for a hi-tech company. I only get to handle a lot of money. [:D]

Between family, mortgage, car payments, etc., well, I'm not the type of person that the higher end MRR companies market to... [;)][xx(]

[Anonymous]

Graphics designer and digital printer. I spend about a $1,000.oo a year.

[Anonymous]

I own a Tile Contracting Company.An example of monies spent in the last year.
Ebay................................................................................4-500.00
Local(LHS).....................................................................3-400.00
Internet shop..................................................................5-600.00
Shows..............................................................................2-300.00
Local hardware/Lumberyard...................................150-200.00
For 2004 with all the new steamers coming out and wanting to start adding sound decoders to my fleet,it could be another very spendy year
lets see whats on the menu for 2004 shall we
Atlas -DM&IR SD9 sound equipped will run me 500 for the pair.
Atlas-Shay logging loco price unknown as yet
2-6-0 Mogul ( i forget who)
Sound decoders for
2-8-0 Bachman
RS-2 Kato(2 of them)
RS-3 Atlas (1 of them)
U25b Atlas (1 of them)
SD-7 LL (2 of them)
GP-9 LL (1 of them)
2-8-2 Kato(1 of them)

[Anonymous]

I am a Regional Govt Officer (U.K.) I overspend about 200 U.S.D. per month on my hobby much to the annoyance of my better half..
Income is around 28k U.S.D. per annum.

[timthechef]

As my screen name says, I'm a chef. I have a family and a mortgage. I make about 45K a year but I only spend about $40 a month on the railroad. (that's if I have time to work on it)

[Anonymous]

Heavy Equipment Oparator, Im just starting but have already put in my budget for $100 a month. this is just deveting the $100 I get to play with already. My wife gets $100 to so its only fair. Yearly Income depends on how much overtime I get through out the year, It ranges $27,000 - $35,000.

[JoeKoh]

I work in a wharehouse and drive a forklift.With mortgage kid etc dont spend too much on new ho scale stuff unless its really special.I got a lot of it before i got married.
stay safe
Joe

[jjbmish]

Electrical Designer, I spend $20 - $100/ month if the wife is in a good mood. Actually she is very forgiving when it comes to the trains. Keeps me home and out of trouble.

[Anonymous]

I am a Network Engineer. The days of making good money are over, but I still find time to spend money on this great hobby, if the wife does not spend it first.

[Anonymous]

I retired 3 1/2 years ago at age 57...shouldn't have really. I was an industrial plant manager, 37 years with the same company and earning a good wage.
"Overly optimistic professional financial advice" had me living just fine from my mutual fund investments.

Yeah, right.

My funds lost 40% of their value shortly after I retired ( long before 9 /11)....so....my income is less than half of what was planned.....and only about 20% of what I made when I was working.
A bit of part-time work here and there is also necessary.

Younger folks out there : Be careful ...DON'T LET your finanacial adviser put all your funds in one type of investment.[xx(][xx(]

Anyway, since I'd been in H0 over 45 years, and had "stashes" of scenic materials, car kits, building kits, scratch materials, etc.,I didn't need much new stuff. In the last 10 years or so that I worked, I spent around $500-600 a year on new stuff.
I now spend maybe $200-250 a year, but generally sell off $700-1000 of stuff I don't really need, so my net expenditures are in minus.[:)][;)]
regards
Mike[:D]

[JPowell]

Me? Active Duty Military in the New York Air National Guard; newly married (18 months to be exact), with a 6 yr old step-son, who btw loves to go "train watching" with me. As for spending, this year, about $300. Of course I had to buy some power tools so i could start building my benchwork, so those are included in my expenditures for this year.

[RedLeader]

I'm an Architect, and architecture is my main hobby. Guess MR is just an extention of it. Although I have position in a Design/Construction firm as Design Department Coordinator (Which ensures me a monthly check), I'm far for being rich, and as taxes keep rising, richness is further away each day. As for what I spend in MR; in times I just suspend all MRing activity for weeks or months when I must work in important projects that consume most of my time. Then the MR mosquito bites me and strat spending some bucks. I don't like posting ciphers, but I could expend about 10 to 15% of my salary on that stuff.

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by train boy

I'm 12 so my jobs are leaf raking, lawn mowing, snow shoveling , dog sitting and baby sitting. I had to save for several months but I think i might have close to 200 dollars to pend at the Oklahoma City Train Show here in a couple weeks. my income is not large so my proggress on my new layout will be limited.

Alex in the sooner state

Well, I'm 13, so I have many of the same jobs( except I blow leaves (or shred them) and snow blow, ahh, technology[;)]). I can usually get around $40.00 every month or so. Got a big antique toy show coming up on sat., hope to get some good rolling stock and a locomotive if I'm lucky.

[Anonymous]

I'm a provider relations rep for KS Healthwave/KS Medicaid and photograph people and weddings on the side. I spend aroung 30.00-150.00/month
Ch

[Anonymous]

I retired 8 years ago, I have been doing volunteer work for the past five years, the last couple years I rework playgrounds, this is all volunteer work and I do it by myself. I have many hobbies that I enjoy, trains in the cold months, playgounds in the warmer months and fishing when I have time. Money comes in from the pension and S.S., but never as pay. My pay is the word of mouth from the kids when I work and rework a playground and they say "Thank You Mister" or I show them my train layout or take them fishing.

[Anonymous]

I go to sea for a living with the Canadian Coast Guard and between that , being a cub leader (Akela) as well as other responsibilities and gardening, I work on my railway.
Completion Date: When ever, It's a work in progress!

Remember the one who dies with the most toys, WINS!

[Anonymous]

I am moderately surprised that architect or land developer engineers seem to dominate the responses, but maybe the "creative" juices need to flow 24/7 one way or the other!

I'm a golf course architect. It's a fair way to make a living.....I own my own company, and make the same amount each year - what's left over. The actual dollars vary considerably, and so does my spending on the hobby. I have spent as much as $5000 in a year, when things were better. Proportionally, I should spend less than $500 right now, but somehow, I can't get the spending that low!

[sparkingbolt]

"I am am jani-TOR" Thats what my brother once said of me mockingly. But he wasn't trashing, just funnin'. I am a self employed commercial floor maintenance contractor mostly with a cupola regular full janitorial accounts. Normally would spend 20-40/mo, with occasional gusts, but....

I have been collecting bits and peices for years, but now am at it seriously so getting locos and rolling stock, track, power, all that... I've spent a bundle this year. Have all the locos i want. Here's the "but" part

My big gun account is gonna "downsize" me some time in '04. So knowing i'm gonna bite it bigly, I have had to do the responsible and the practical thing: HOARD!!!! And with my wifes full blessing!!!! LOVE THAT WOMAN! (she's cute, too!)

I have a couple leads to follow up in due time, no bird in the hand though. It is gonna be an interesting year. That will determine how much, if any I spend then. Ask in a year!

Dan
PS: it's interesting that MR regularly features mega model RRs, and while it does promote and encourage small guys like most of us (Thanks Ian Rice) it seldom features them. Not whining, I like MR. : )

[ddechamp71]

Airline pilot. I´m working in a french charter airline as a F/O on a Boeing B747. My passions are:
-aviation
-modelrailroading (Z scale, my soon started Tehachapi Pass)
-music (Jazz, rock, blues).
Cheers
Dominique

[ddechamp71]

My mean year expense for modelrailroading: about $1500 US for 7 years, but a lot more this year, as I bought 10 locomotives at $539 US per unit....

[locomutt]

Well,[:D] Retired now[:p] But spent 11-1/2 years designing the
railroad crossing protection that a lot of "IDIOTS" like to go
around[V] Retired sgt in the Army,Fighter/EMT[:D] have spent
about 40 years as a model railroader.[:D]
locomutt[8D]

[Anonymous]

At present, Field Service, prior to that, PE at prestigious Jet Engine Manufacturer. Saved a lot, never lived at my means let alone above them. I enjoy the hobby and spend between 5-6K a year. Still want to spend more.[;)]

I should have stated that when I got back into model railroading I spent 5-6K the first year and have been spending between $800-$1200 a year since. I surely do not spend 5-6 K a year. Sorry for that[:(], but I do spend a what I deem a considerable amount on a hobby.[8D][8D]

[Ibflattop]

Heck if ya are tired of driving a truck and making good money ya should try the railroad. Just starting off you are making $400- $800 dollars a week. Wait until ya get out on the road then ya will bring in the Bucks! KB

[Anonymous]

Until January of this year I did applications and design for a turbocharger manufacturer/repair company. We specialized in the oil and natural gas area but did alot of marine and railroad jobs.

I did have a sucessful design to help reduced the response time and smoke for the Alco 251C and 251F engines. The fact marine customers have little or no money made it a hard sell. Also company policies on R&D and marketing strategy hurt. I could make those Alco engines run very clean from a smoke point of view. One boat the crew thanked me because they could reduced cleaning the decks to once a week. Also the pilot liked the fact if he had a tail wind he could see the locks.

We also did some neat things with EMD turbos but I didn't get too involved with that.

Right now I'm a part time grad student and am a mechanical engineer.

Money is tight so......maybe $100-150 to get my old HO set rolling again for my 3 sons.

DT

[peterjenkinson1956]

lo lo ...i am an underground coalminer working in australia...could any other coalminers contact me to say [e-mail]...i model conrail / csx and i have started to run g scale...i love to travel , i went out of australia 6 x times last year , mainly to asia,close and cheap...pay $126k and i am glad to say no debt so my wife does not even ask when i walk into the house with a box of goodies...heaven

[Anonymous]

I am a Computer/business management consultant with my own business, so spending depends on how business is going. I only spend $500 AUD per year average. So slow going, I find purchasing from the 'usa' cheaper than local due to the exchange rate.

[Anonymous]

im a freshmen in high school making only 8 bucks a week for allowance and babysitting for $10 an hour, so i only spend about 5 bucks a month (im a $ saver[;)]) and have to wait untill my b-day and x-mas untill I get any major stuff for my layout but hopefully ill get a small summer job and be able to spend more. My layout is only 4x8 HO and its still coming along slowly but surely but im not rushing it, it's coming along great.

[jimmac230]

Police officer for many years, got hooked on trains years ago working with the railroad on the Operation Lifesaver program have just started with building a layout with certain events involving them. Spend about $30 to $40 a month for particular items for the layout. Mainly just tinker with it for relaxation.

[IRONROOSTER]

Software Engineer. I now average about $100 per month (it was a lot less when the boys were growing up), but generally buy stuff two or three times a year at the train shows and once or twice mail order. The local hobby shops carry very very little S scale. I probably will be slowing down since I have more rolling stock and engines than I can use on my current 11x18 layout and probably all but 8 or 10 buildings. It's amazing how much I have amassed over 10 years in S scale. Before that I was in O scale and before that in HO scale. Over the course of 32 years in the hobby I have bought enough to keep me busy for years - in all three scales if I want.
Enjoy
Paul

[Anonymous]

I work for the Air Force, currently stationed at RAF Lakenheath, UK. I spend a lot more than I should.

[Anonymous]

I am a 33 year old Mechanical Engineer and have a self-imposed budget of between $50 and $75 per month. I could spend more than that, but I have a wife and two year old son.

[Anonymous]

Retired. Our baby, 5 of 5, will graduate from college in May so I hope to have a little more to spend on my hobby. I probably spen about $50/month now.

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Hawks05

hopefully i'll make some money as a Journalist or history teacher to help out my train collection after i graduate.

Don't hold your breath.

I am a journalist. I make $42,000 a year and I'm pushing 40. If I didn't love news, I'd have to find a real job that pays an adult wage.

[Anonymous]

Freight Conductor--BNSF Railway--$65,000 to $75,000 a year---I spend $1000 or less a year on models of locomotives and real (1 to 1 scale) train items......See my posting concerning help with the "Super Chief" model offered by "Walthers".........

[Anonymous]

I drive road trains in Australia, like 18-wheelers but with up to four trailers. Fully legal on the highways in the northern half of Australia too! Currently driving these road trains in a mining environment in Western Aus, work 5 days, 5 nights, 5 off - 12 hour shifts. Make around $100K a year.

Spendings are quite limited however, as I spend a lot of money on photography and travelling, not to mention the fact that I model Sn3.5. That is 3'6" gauge, which allows us to use HO track and mechanisms, with scratchbuilt bodies, at 1/64 scale. Most of the railway system here in West Aus is 3'6" narrow gauge. I still would spend over $2000 a year, however. Girlfriend doesn't complain - it's my money, and she has a bloody good job too!

[Anonymous]

I am a librarian for a k -12 Indian school in South Dakota. I have been a model railroader for about 30 years. Make about $40,000 a year. I spend $400 - $500 a year on my railroad. My other big expense as you might guess from my occupation is books!

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Z For Me

43 years old and retired.
I was severly injured on the job five years ago changing my life forever.
Prior to becoming diabled I was a Chemical Operator processing nuclear fuel for commercial nuclear power plants. Was making over well over 50K and man do I miss the money but also the ability to work.
Right now I only collect old locos and cars in HO and can't spend too much ca***hese days because my wife and I are starting a family. Low bills and we own a home on three acres up in the hills in NE Nevada at 6500 feet. It has been snowing for the last three weeks so we are settling in for a long and brutal winter. Perfect time to start my first layout after being interested in the hobby since I was seven. I have subscibed to MR since the early 70s but have never laid a single rail of track. Nows the time don't you think?
That's all folks!
Mark

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Z For Me

43 years old and retired.
I was severly injured on the job five years ago changing my life forever.
Prior to becoming diabled I was a Chemical Operator processing nuclear fuel for commercial nuclear power plants. Was making over well over 50K and man do I miss the money but also the ability to work.
Right now I only collect old locos and cars in HO and can't spend too much ca***hese days because my wife and I are starting a family. Low bills and we own a home on three acres up in the hills in NE Nevada at 6500 feet. It has been snowing for the last three weeks so we are settling in for a long and brutal winter. Perfect time to start my first layout after being interested in the hobby since I was seven. I have subscibed to MR since the early 70s but have never laid a single rail of track. Nows the time don't you think?
That's all folks!
Mark

Best of luck,my friend...go on and lay that rail..

[retsignalmtr]

i am a retired signal maintainer. i worked for NYC transit for 31 years. i'm finally building what i want and have spent about $400 this year.

[PistolPete]

Biology teacher and Soccer Coach for 31 years, between $50 and $100 a month.

[Nieuweboer]

Retired as Gen.Mgr. of a pharmaceutical company. I think I spent about $ 1000 a year these last years. I could spent more but I already have so many locomotives and cars that adding more only creates more storing problems bacause I never retire old rolling stock, some of them 40 and more years old.
I should dump the old Athearns, Rivarossi's and Tyco's and add some Kato's and Atlasses.Maybe next year! Most of the money goes to replacement of turnouts and other improvements of the layout itself.

[Anonymous]

City Department of Public Works worker & Part Paid Firefighter. With overtime & all it's worth about 40,000 / yr. . Now that my track is all down, I only spend about $50.00 per month on my hobby, the rest goes to my wife & daughter. Oh well...............

[dragenrider]

Here's an unusual occupation for you...I'm a flight nurse/paramedic on a medi-vac helicopter. I fly the gorgeous Ozark Mountains, complete with hunting accidents, car crashes on winding roads, and four wheeler roll overs. It's a great job! [:)][:)][:)] I work a straight 48 hour shift and I'm done for the week. With my remaining time I work on the side as a firefighter/paramedic. Plus, I volunteer with two local fire departments.

With all this time free you'd think I would accomplish more on my layout, but no such doing...(sigh). I do manage to spend about $750.00 a year on my layout. Half of that is on eBay. There are no decent hobby shops in the rural mountains and train shows are a long way away. Thank God for the Internet and an understanding wife. [:X] She even let me lay claim to the entire (one car) garage. I still can't believe her sports car sits outside under a tree just so I can play with my choo-choo's. [:p]

Happy Rails,
Randy A.

[Anonymous]

I'm a plumber, and in the past 20 years, I've averaged $0.00 a year... Libraries provide me with all of my reading material, so I don't even buy an MR mag!

However, all that will change this year. WOO HOO!!!!

I plan on forking over 2 to 3k this year, and scaling back to about 1k 2nd year, 3rd year, I should win the lotto[;)] HAHA!!!!

[shawn-118]

sawmill worker so I can get most of the lumber for next to nothing. Other than that seeing as I'm starting out I'll be spending quit heavy from now until fall probably around $4000-$5000 but thats Canadian.

[Anonymous]

coal miner in Gillette,Wyo,,meet lots of real railroad people who ar moderlers of there working R.R.so i spend some one month and less the next,,But all in all i can affored any thing i think i might need,

[Anonymous]

I am an over the road truck driver. the good thing about that is that i get to go trainwatching all over the country, and i get paid to do it! the bad thing is that i am not home very often so i can get much work done on the trains and the layout.


i am single so i have quite a bit of extra money that i spend on trains.

[Anonymous]

I am a seamless steel siding applicator. we even work in the winter. I live in south dakota.

[joecool1212]

Im a self employed electrician with 9 kids 8 under 16. In a good year i would spend $2500.00 a bad year about $500 (2003). I also have a boat so this is only my winter hobbie. I train watch all year and it dosent cost much with a digital camara. I would spend more on the hobbie but wife gets mad. Joe

[Anonymous]

I am a CPA specializing in complex real estate transactions. I don't keep track of how much I spend or else I'd probably cry.

[FJ and G]

Editor of The Military Engineer magazine

[Anonymous]

I'm currently working as a law clerk so I'm not exactly bringing home the big bucks. That's the first prob.

Second prob is that I don't have anywhere to build a MR at the time so all I can do is dream. A tip for people in this same boat: subscribe to MR and get the Walther's yearly catalogues. They keep me interested in the hobby even though I can't really partake in it at the time. Another great publication I recently discovered is the Model Railroading News!

[Anonymous]

Professional computer geek in the Computer Services department of a small University-College.

Get much of my stuff off of E-bay at the moment (not all computer geeks earn 45k+ per year -
yeah, I wish [;)])

Canuck Wingnut[:)]

[randybc2003]

Civil Engineer. Sometimes I work for a government entity, sometimes for a consulting co., (either land development or gov. consulting), sometimes independent. It depends on the moon of my fortunes.

May spend (+/-) $10/week. Sometimes a lot less. (I like to scratchbuild) Sometimes more. (biggest expense: deluxed DCC system.) Budget $100max for Trainshows. Keep eye peeled for bargans. Get my fun @ clubs and often "detailing" models. Also, running my own stuff.

[Anonymous]

I currently am a local truck driver, but should be switching occupations soon. I might spend between $200-$300 per year on my layout, but I've been working on it for close to 6 years and am about 40% completed. Since I don't know what else to ask for for Christmas, birthdays, etc.., I just ask for money to spend " a railroadin'" What's really fun, is that my wife is just as involved. I plan and lay track, we both pick structures, I do rolling stock and she landscapes.

[pbjwilson]

I'm a painter/artist. I do alot of interior painting in large Chicago North Shore homes. Man do I see some nice basements. Drives me crazy as my own basement and house is tiny. I build small modular layouts that tend to get tossed around , stacked, leaned against stuff and finally tossed out or recycled.

[Anonymous]

Writer/proofreader. Proofreading, I get paid for; writing for publication is an aspiration. Far from rich, let me tell you! But the bills get paid. Would gladly skip a meal to buy something that has caught my attention at the LHS any day of the week! [:)] Last year, I couldn't spend as much money as I wanted on trains; this year will be different. I'm allowing myself up to $200.00/month on trains, more if it's absolutely, positively something I've just got to have.[:D]

[CP5415]

Parts specifier for a Dodge Dealership.
I usually spend about $40-$80 a month on my favourite hobby.

Gordon

[andyhjn]

hvac service technician .
andy

[DTomajko]

Trailer Mechanic /Yardman /Packer Operator in an Intermodal yard. The pay is OK and the work isn't terribly difficult, but it can be very taxing on the coldest or hottest days of the year.Rushing around to make sure that a train isn't delayed and everything is where it belongs can also test the nerves but overall it's not a bad job. I spend about $100 per month with an occassional jump to purchase "Kato",(just couldn't pass up those SD80MACS!!!!). I would probably spend more if I didn't work weekends and could go to train shows, but the railroads don't take weekends off.Good luck and good modeling.

[Anonymous]

I'm a railway conductor for Canadian National. I don't keep track of how much I spend on my pike but I make sure I have enough left over for basic living expenses and a full contribution to my 401(k).

[Anonymous]

I'm a Lead Technician (A&P) for Continental Airlines. I work on Boeing 757, 767 & 777 and if I'm very lucky I get to play with real aircraft......my favorites.........Douglas MD-80's!!!!!

I make good money and spend a LOT on my S scale trains. I have a small 9x17 layout and hopefully when I retire a 8-9 years I can build something larger and more user-friendly.

[Anonymous]

I am the marketing director for a bowling accessories manufacture.

I mostly spend in clumps during the year around once a quarter. Not more than $500 most years. I try to hit big sales of clearances. Last year I did make some big loco purchase which were unusual.

RMax

[dave9999]

QUOTE: Originally posted by CP5415

Parts specifier for a Dodge Dealership.
I usually spend about $40-$80 a month on my favourite hobby.

Gordon

Do you get parts wholesale[}:)][}:)] ? Dave
My '91 Ramcharger 4x4
http://home.bellsouth.net/coDataImages/p/Groups/179/179121/pages/443522/mydodge1forweb.JPG

[Supermicha]

I´m an aircraft mechanic at EADS. I spend 1000 dollars a year, maybe more, i will get more money in july [:D].

Micha

[mloik]

Assistant Professor at the University of California. I have an 18-month old son, so we're running trains and not really building. But, plans exist for expansion once he's old enough. Then the expenditures will go back up.

Michael in California

[Anonymous]

Shoot, i don't know if I reply'd to this topic or not.

[dave9999]

QUOTE: Originally posted by norboy

Shoot, i don't know if I reply'd to this topic or not.

Well, you would only have to go through seven pages to find out !! [banghead] Dave

[NevinW]

I run an allergy/immunology program for a medical school. - Nevin

[Anonymous]

I work for a local family owned garbage company as a driver on an automated truck , Where I sit in the cab & operate an arm on the truck that picks up 98 gallon totes on wheels that dump them in the truck mechanicaly . Residential house to house . The pay is good but my spending fluctuates on merchandise for my layout . I spend usually on a do I need it or how bad do I want to have it atitude. Also , When I see copper tubing, copper wire , aluminum cans , aluminum car / truck rims , aluminum siding ,ect . I pick it up & set it aside neatly in our shed , When I have a decent amount saved I cash it in . You'd be surprized at how much you can make from this. Check with your local scrapp yard or recycling center on what to do . Most materials pay more in the spring & usually less in the winter months. Hope that this will help anyone out .

[AggroJones]

Well for me, the man who started this topic, I lost my last job and am now working a few days a week in my alcoholic father's horribly unsucessful clothing store. [V] And he is an insensitive jerk-off! [:(!] We sell attire for pimps, players, and OGs.

This is only until I find a real job. Please pray for ya boy. [:(]

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by AggroJones

Well for me, the starter of this topic, I lost my last job and am now working a few days a week in my alcoholic father's unsucessful clothing store. [V] And he is an insensitive jerk-off! [:(!]
This is only until I find a real job. Please pray for ya boy. [:(]

Praying for ya, Aggro. Hang in there. Pray for your dad as well. All isn't lost.[angel]

[iwasgr8]

Retired design engineer. I dont spend near as much as I'd like to and far more than my wife will ever know.

Gary In Peoria

[Anonymous]

I am retired after 25 years with the PA State Police....and with the cost of model railroading these days I am still and most likely aways will be running DC...DCC is way to costly with the equipment and all the decoders required.

[Anonymous]

I'm a self employed custom interior trim carpenter surrounded by five women(wife included). When the moneys there time isn't, and the opposite. I still do side work outside my company for extra $. My income fluxuates due to the market, so what I spend does to. $ 800.00 last year give or take spent on this hobby.

Carpenter Matt - Benchworks easy it's the rest I have problems with. LOL

[Anonymous]

U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer (Retired). I live on a combination of my retirement pay and my VA disability allowance which keeps me just above the poverty level. I try to spend around $15 - 20 per month, usually buying rolling stock. In order to purchase locomotives, I've had to put them on layaway and pay as/when I can.

It also means I don't have that much to spend on construction materials for my layout. Most of my tools (along with my money) are tied up in a divorce settlement. I was awarded the tools, but they're in my wife's possession and I would have to drive 750 miles to get them. If it weren't for the sheer cost of replacing them, I'd let her keep them, but the table saw alone is over $500, easily more than a drive there and back.

[Anonymous]

I'm a engineer of the mechanical kind (not the railroading kind).

Started in the hobby about a month and a half ago on a small 3 x 5 N-scale layout. Have spent close to $650 US just to keep pace with the progress of the layout, without going overboard on stuff I didn't need yet, and I still have all the scenery, buildings and most of the rolling stock to buy! This is way over what I expected to spend on this, being the penny picker that I usually am! Once things settle down, I can only hope to keep the budget below $100 / month.

Worth every penny however....no regrets!

Hey Al, let's go back to Bayview sometime.

[lupo]

I am 49, I have been graphic-designer and screen-printer for the last 30 years,
Next to that, I worked as sound and ligthing engineer had my own PA-rental Company (1 big rig) and for now I own a textile printing company with 5 employees.
we design and print the shirts a lot of parents regret their kids wear.
What I spend:
I was forced to sell every model RR item I had at 17,( dad spent more than he earned )
But: with the money I got from the insurance company off the blind car-driver that ran me over 7 years ago I decided to get even:
What I Want I Buy. ( within some reason I am cautious what I buy, not throwing money away for every pit has a bottom),

[Anonymous]

I'm a SAS Programmer for a bank. I have a new baby girl so I don't spend much on myself. I have not purchased any train related items in over a year.

I model HO but have recently broke down the layout (temporary). I have plans to start re-building in the very near future, just can't find the time.

[mikebonellisr]

I'm a semi-retired,commercial artist/cartoonist.I also have a part time,night job driving a zamboni at a local ice rink. The house is paid for, 5 kids are out of college,my wife still works so I have a fair amount of spare time & money for my hobby.I spend about $800 a month,though I have too many engines,cars, building kits ,etc., than I'll EVER get to.
My layout [not finished] is like a giant kit waiting to be put together]I either need help or a lot more time.

[Anonymous]

I am a retired police officer and am now on a fixed budget. Before that I would spend between $100 & 200 a month. Depends on what catches my eye ,which is everything. My wife thinks im crazy but I tell her at least im home and doing what I truly enjoy.

[Anonymous]

I'm an Electronic Test Engineer. Make a pretty good wage but not rich by any stretch of the imagination. Got a mortgage, doing some remodeling and getting this place in shape. I guess I spend an average of about $20 a week on the hobby. My layout is HO and measures 15x10x5 feet. I have about 40 locomotives, mostly steam and about 150 pieces of rolling stock. I usually run 4 loco's at a time and 25 pieces of rolling stock. Lucky for me my local hobby shop lets its regulars put items on lay-away and that's how I get most of my more expensive items. I usually splurge on expensive items on my birthday and Christmas. I'm also a Ham Radio operator so I also support that beast. That hobby is a holdover from my former occupation as a naval radiomorse operator. Also have a collection of telegraph keys, some over 100 yrs old, that were used both in wireless/radio and railroad work.