Getting Started
Whether you're into history, electronics, art, or activities that bring friends and family together, model railroading is a fun way to explore your interests.
Walthers has everything you need to build a great model railroad. We offer several brands and have partnered with more than 200 companies. We have never been more dedicated to bringing you everything you need to build the model railroad of your dreams, including high-quality train sets, stunning structures, breathtaking scenery and much, much more.
Having so many options can be exciting, but it can also make getting started seem overwhelming. Fortunately, there's good news. Walthers is here to help.
Here are just a few of the resources available to help get you started and to keep you chugging along.
Choosing Your Train
Our Train Set Advisor Page will help you research, select, and locate the kind of train set that's right for you.
Easy To Use Products
Products that are ready to use right out of the box are great for beginners. They make it simple to get started and let you easily expand your layout as you learn about the hobby.
Our Walthers Trainline brand has locomotives, cars, sets, and structures, either kits or already assembled, to help get you off to a good start.
Model Train Organizations
Visit our Model Railroad Organizations page to discover groups and resources that can help you get more out of the hobby. Model railroad organizations offer tips, inspiration, education, and opportunities to connect with fellow enthusiasts. Be sure to check out World's Greatest Hobby, along with many other organizations dedicated to helping model railroaders of all experience levels.
Talk With An Expert
Our experts are also available to give you guidance, answer your questions, and chat about the fun you're going to have.
Feel free to give us a call at 1-800-4TRAINS (1-800-487-2467) or email us anytime at custserv@walthers.com.
Talk With Each Other
Visit our Walthers Trains YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram pages and get in touch with and learn from thousands of modelers from all skill levels.
Popular Model Scales
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HO Scale
"HO" means "half - o;" models are half the size of O Scale. HO is the most popular scale with the greatest selection of sets and accessories, as it allows lots of railroad action in a small area. Children may need adult help to set up or take down the set.
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Z Scale
Z scale was developed in by Märklin in the early 1970's, and is the smallest of all the working models -- so tiny that a little layout will even fit in a briefcase. Most Z trains and equipment are based on European railways.
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N Scale
This scale is an ideal choice for apartments or anyone with limited space. N-scale trains are easy to store when not in use and are ruggedly built for trouble-free operation. The small size is fine for teenagers and adults; younger children will need an adult to help to set up or take down a set.
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S Scale
S Scale trains appeared in the 1950s (American Flyer was one of several popular brands) as houses grew smaller. Its chief advantage was size; larger than HO for more detail and improved reliability, but smaller than O Scale so less room was needed for a layout. Today, the selection of kits and assembled items is small, but this has made S Scale popular with modelers who enjoy the challenges of scratchbuilding and kitbashing.
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O Scale (also On30, 027)
O Scale trains also include "On30" Sets, which are O Scale models that run on a narrower track -- just 30 scale inches wide. They're ideal for use with Christmas Villages. "O27" gauge sets will take tighter curves -- which makes these O Scale sets a good choice when space for bigger trains is limited. (The number 27 refers to the 27" diameter of a full circle of track.) If you grew up with Lionel trains, you'll remember that they were O Scale models. Ruggedly built, they're a good choice for youngsters or permanent layouts. Many sets feature animated accessories.
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G Scale
Big models, sometimes called "Large Scale" trains. Sizes range from 1/22.5 to 1/25 and also includes #1 gauge (1/32 Scale) equipment. The largest electrically powered models, starter sets set up in small areas. Some brands can be used outdoors, in garden layouts. The large size of G-scale trains allows for rugged handling by younger children. Many models have working parts that enhance play value.
