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Whether one enjoys collecting model train sets for the fun of it, or has a passion of building many model railroad sets, decisions have to be made. There are things to think about regarding size, design and the theme one wants for his or her set.

When one is dealing with scale, they are dealing with the model train size compared to the size of a real train. HO scale locomotives, for example, are 1/87th the size of a traditional locomotive one would see on the tracks. There are plenty of scales one could follow for his or her model scale collection. Factors to look at when deciding scale will include things like space in the home, budget and eyesight.

Once one decides the size of their collection they will look at several factors including ways to power the collection and types of layouts to elect from. There are many things that go above and beyond the actual trains and tracks. Model railroading is about engineering and also artistic merit. A true collector will want her or his model railway buildings to look good while simultaneously functioning. They could select classic railroads like Burlington Northern and Santa Fe or Union Pacific for the actual train cars, but a beautiful model railroad will go beyond that.

To join the trains and tracks will be model structures and scenery. Remember, there is a time and place for everything when it comes to constructing the model railroad of one’s choice. A scale model of the wild west with outlaws trying to rob banks and open plains greeting the trains as they pass by would be exciting. A wild west theme can look like a scene straight out of a certain era of Deadwood. One will want to decide what their landscape, trains and model buildings will look like.