[buster]

I'm looking for an introductory level HO set for my 8 year old son. I'd like to have somthing somewhat durable, but I want somthing that he can grow with and expand on. I don't want to wind up with piece of junk! Any suggestions on manufacturers?

 

[swiggy]

hey buster, keep searching this forum, it is full of very useful info. personally I have Bachmann e-z track. I like it, but plan on all nickle silver when I expand. It is easy to use. What kind of layout will you have? temporary/permanent? Many questions exist in your search, but do not get discouraged - this site has everything you need.

 

[sstlaure]

Look for used stuff on craigslist - search HO scale and you should be able to find something. Seems like there are tons of people out there that get train sets as a gift, then lose interest (or their kids lose interest.)

Stick with cheaper stuff for an 8 year old - I guarantee he'll break some of it. If you start with used/cheaper stuff you won't get bothered by the damage as much.

My 6 year old has a bunch of cars I let him "play" with on EZ track on the floor, but when we run the layout - Dad's nice cars stay on the track.

 

[Big Ed]

Look for used stuff on craigslist - search HO scale and you should be able to find something. Seems like there are tons of people out there that get train sets as a gift, then lose interest (or their kids lose interest.)

Stick with cheaper stuff for an 8 year old - I guarantee he'll break some of it. If you start with used/cheaper stuff you won't get bothered by the damage as much.

My 6 year old has a bunch of cars I let him "play" with on EZ track on the floor, but when we run the layout - Dad's nice cars stay on the track.

Search local when you do.
Sometimes you can pickup a couple of sheets of plywood with the layout on it. Trains,buildings, track and more.

 

[gc53dfgc]

Buy him a nice G-4 daylight from bachman mine has lasted a long time and runs very smoothly. Youe can get passenger cars for it off ebay for pretty cheap prices.

 

[MacDaddy55]

Check out Walthers!

Hey Buster,
If you want the quick impact train set then you could try Walthers Train man sets. Reasonably priced and good funtioning engines....then go on a search and destroy to every garage sale, train swap,train show and of course Ebay & craigslist. Once you start you just can't stop all the FUN!!:thumbsup:

 

[imatt88]

buster,

Since there are no hobby shops near me, I have to go on eBay to find what I want.

Not the greatest, but it works for me.

Good luck finding a set for your son, once he's hooked, you'll be buying all kinds of train stuff:laugh:

Cheers, Ian

 

[buster]

We visited a few local train shops this weekend, I think I'm sold on O-Scale for him. I'm looking at Lionel & Rail King. Anyone have any advice on good internet sites to purchase from?