Annie

Building a Baltimore and Ohio passenger train in HO scale is one of the most rewarding projects for any model railroader. The B&O holds a special place in American railroad history as the nation’s first common carrier railroad, operating from 1830 until its merger into CSX in 1987. When I started modeling B&O passenger trains, … Read more

The Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad holds a special place in American railroad history. Known simply as “The Rock,” this midwestern railroad operated from 1852 until its controversial dissolution in 1980. Model railroaders seeking to recreate Rock Island’s famous “Rocket” passenger trains or its gritty freight operations face a unique challenge: authentic Rock Island … Read more

Short line railroads represent the heart and soul of North American railroading. These smaller regional carriers operate thousands of miles of track, serving industries and communities that major Class I railroads overlook. For model railroaders, capturing the authentic look and operations of short line railroads means choosing the right locomotive models. After researching the current … Read more

The Pennsylvania Railroad’s class I1s Decapod holds a legendary place in American railroading history. These massive 2-10-0 locomotives, affectionately called “Hippos” by crews, were the most powerful freight engines of their era. I’ve spent countless hours researching HO Scale PRR I1s Decapod Steam Locomotives, and I need to be upfront with you: true I1s Decapod … Read more

Nothing brings an urban model railroad layout to life quite like the charm of a trolley or streetcar gliding through city streets. HO scale trolley models capture the nostalgic appeal of early 20th-century electric traction while offering unique operational possibilities that mainline trains cannot match. Whether you are modeling a bustling cityscape, a quiet interurban … Read more

The Norfolk & Western Railway’s Class Y Mallet locomotives represent some of the most powerful steam engines ever built. These 2-8-8-2 compound articulated locomotives dominated heavy freight operations on the N&W system from the 1930s through the 1950s. Their distinctive silhouette and incredible pulling power made them favorites among railfans and modelers alike. Today, finding … Read more

Building a short line railroad in HO scale requires the right diesel switchers to bring your layout to life. I’ve spent years testing various locomotives on switching layout, and the right switcher can make or break your operations. Whether you’re modeling a small industrial branch line or a regional short line, choosing the best HO … Read more

When I first started building my N Scale layout, I wanted rolling stock that captured the essence of American railroading history. The Delaware and Hudson Railway, known as the “Bridge Line to the North,” has always fascinated me with its northeastern operations and distinctive paint schemes. This guide covers the best N Scale rolling stock … Read more

The 2-8-0 Consolidation wheel arrangement stands as one of the most successful steam locomotive designs in American railroad history. If you are building an HO scale layout and want a locomotive that delivers authentic looks, solid pulling power, and that classic steam-era feel, the 2-8-0 deserves your attention. A 2-8-0 Consolidation locomotive features two leading … Read more

After testing battery capacity for everything from RC helicopters to industrial power supplies over the past decade, I’ve learned that having the right programmable DC load makes all the difference between accurate data and guesswork. These electronic loads simulate real-world power consumption by drawing controlled current from batteries and power supplies, letting you measure capacity, … Read more