Problem Solving? Sense of accomplishment? To spend time with family?...or with friends? Why do you build models?

Building N scale steam trains is an activity that to some appears to be a stereotypically stuffy and reserved only for middle-aged and elderly men; however, it is a fun and rewarding hobby to others. But why? With such a significant investment of time, money and effort, what makes building N scale model trains worth it?

People find building N scale model trains rewarding and exciting for a variety of different reasons. As you get started with train modeling, you will find your own reasons for loving it. Here are some common reasons why people of all ages, genders and lifestyles keep coming back to our model railroad store:

1. The Challenge of Building a Location Exactly to Scale

"For many, myself included, a model railway isn’t just a train set, but an attempt to recreate a real life location in miniature. It’s like a 3-D art form. And the more realistic you make it, the more people like them–it’s quite addictive!" -Howard Smith, Telegraph UK

2. The Technical Expertise and Skill Developed

"You can begin by researching the different railways and trains, and then of course a great deal of skill goes into the planning. Woodworking skills are required to lay the track and then electrical skills to successfully install all the wiring. You improve your artistic and modelling skills as you build as well." -Mike Hughes, Telegraph UK

3. The Adventure

“Like the Trojan Horse of Homer, trains evoke a sense of wonder, awe and power. We wonder what it would be like to be like Casey Jones, and sit at the throttle of a ‘hot’ train. Then we romance about the hobo of yesteryear, seeming so carefree and fleet of foot traveling where ever his heart guides him. And then seeing long silver comets streak along to great destinations far off, leave me with a sense of adventure that I would love to partake. There is an old poem that ends with the line, ‘And there isn't a train, I wouldn't take, No matter where it’s going.’ It describes perfectly how I feel.” -James, via Model Railroader Forum

4. Family Aspect

“Building a model railroad is a great family-oriented hobby. Everyone can get involved and everyone can participate ‘together.’ Every member of the family can be working on some part of things. Mom can be building this part, dad working on that, while the kids are working on something else.” -NMRA.org

5. Fun!

“Model railroading is an activity of constant improvement and learning. From that, we often learn that the true gratification is not in attaining the goal, but the journey we take to get there.” -NMRA.org

So join in on the fun! Find N scale supplies and trains at TrainLife. Discover model trains including N scale steam trains, freight trains, locomotive trains and more. In addition to our online model railroad store, we sell N scale supplies and trains at a brick and mortar store in Provo, Utah. Come visit us, or contact us with any questions.

For the train modeling enthusiast, TrainLife is working to digitize years worth of model railroad hobby magazines. The project is continually underway, but you can view the beginnings of the project online.