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[Anonymous]

As a beginning hobbiest what is the best way to get started. Are there certain books I should read, certain magazines etc. Also for the beginner what would be the best gauge to start with, and what would be a good beginners track layout etc. Merle 1

[fsm1000]

I recommend, one: go to the library and read read read.

Two: read about various scales on the web. A tree is a tree is a tree. A rock is also the same. The details as in locos, houses etc are different but the basics are the same for all scales. Cutting wood for n scale [though smaller] is cutting wood for g scale.

Three: although I am in O scale I recommend HO for the beginner if only because there is so much info and things in that scale. More structures, locos, accessories etc.

Four: go to sites like mine that have FREE tutorials [if you want to pay later then at least you will know WHY you are paying and for WHAT] and I also have lots of links to other sites that have free tutorials and info in various things model railroading.

Five: join a few forums and ask a LOT of questions.

Not to discourage you, but spend a few months doing this and you will enjoy it much much more then just rushing in and getting frustrated and giving up. The time will go by faster then you think :)

Research is the key to a life of enjoying this as it is ANY hobby.
I was blessed in that my dad was into this since I was born. Heck he even had a hobby shop for a short while :D

Anyhow, I hope that helps.

[TomDiehl]

Right on this site you can go to:

http://www.trains.com/mrr/default.aspx?c=ss&id=16

This is a section called the ABC's of Model Railroading. It's in a section under the Model Railroader Magazine banner. Just scroll to the bottom of this page and click on "Model Trains" next to the word "Newcomers." There's more info there for you to look through.

Also, the National Model Railroad Association (NMRA, an abbreviation you'll see quite a bit) has a beginner's page:

http://www.nmra.org/beginner/

You also may want to look around your area for a model railroad club. Many of these have open houses in November, which is National Model Railroad Month. Go to the open house, talk to the members, and you may be surprised at how open they are to "helping the newbie."