An Electro-Motive Division SD7 is one of the latest additions to the ScaleTrains Rivet Counter line. The HO scale model, based on a prototype from the early 1950s, features injection-molded plastic and die-cast metal construction; factory-applied, prototype-specific details; and metal semi-scale Type E couplers painted a rusty color. Prototype history Electro-Motive Division produced the SD7 […]
Q: I’m contemplating adding another, different paint scheme to some of the diesels on my freelanced railroad. I know a lot of roads had different schemes for passenger and freight locomotives, but what about major color changes? And I’m not counting mergers, either. I can think of Western Maryland, but then I draw a blank. […]
There are few diesel locomotives in model railroading that provoke nostalgia like an F3. That being said, I’d argue the Train Master might be a close second. Originally offered by Lionel in 1954 as the No. 2321, this massive six-axle road switcher provided hobbyists with a diverse use on nearly any layout. This model was […]
For many years Hobbyshop Window was a popular department in the pages of Model Railroader magazine. We’re excited to bring it back as a frequent feature on Trains.com. Here’s a recap of some of the items that arrived at our offices for the week ending March 13th 2026. Keep up to date on the latest […]
Q: I want to know if anyone has a good red that matches closely with the one used on Nickel Plate Road 1000-series wood cabooses. I’m buying a 3D-printed kit and don’t think the colors I have found match that well. Curious if anyone could help me out? — Jack_Kemp_IV, via the MR Forums A: […]
News & Products for the week of March 9th 2026 Model railroad operators and builders can get the latest information about locomotives, freight cars, passenger cars, tools, track, and more by reading Model Railroader’s frequent product updates. The following are the products Model Railroader editors have news on for the week of March 9th […]
For many years Hobbyshop Window was a popular department in the pages of Model Railroader magazine. We’re excited to bring it back as a frequent feature on Trains.com. Here’s a recap of some of the items that arrived at our offices for the week ending March 6th 2026. Keep up to date on the latest […]
Facts and features Name: Chicago, Peoria & Western Scale: HO (1:87.1) Size: 30 x 44 feet Prototype: CB&Q, EJ&E, and IC Locale: Chicago to Galesburg, Ill. Era: 1940s Style: walk-in Mainline run: approximately 230 feet Minimum radius: 30″ Minimum turnout: No. 8 (main), No. 6 (industries and yards) Grade: less than 1% Benchwork: open grid […]
News & Products for the week of March 2nd 2026 Model railroad operators and builders can get the latest information about locomotives, freight cars, passenger cars, tools, track, and more by reading Model Railroader’s frequent product updates. The following are the products Model Railroader editors have news on for the week of March 2nd […]
For many years Hobbyshop Window was a popular department in the pages of Model Railroader magazine. We’re excited to bring it back as an occasional feature on Trains.com. Here’s a recap of some of the items that arrived at our offices for the week ending February 27th 2026. Keep up to date on the latest […]
If you’re looking for a fun, easy-to-build detail for your structures, check out the Ne Series of HO scale neon sign kits, part of the Noble Gas & Tungsten line from DVL Design LLC. As of press time, there are more than 200 sign designs; three etched-metal frame styles — grid, open, and panel; and […]
Q: While thinking through the operating scheme for my World War II-era (1944) model railroad, I wondered where troop trains sat in timetable priority. Obviously they were extras, but were they bumped up in priority to first class due to the war effort? — Callum Day A: I reached out to our former On Operation […]
