Steam Locomotive

Home > Model Trains HO Scale > Steam Locomotive

November 10th, 2008 admin Leave a comment Go to comments

Why are model steam trains better than electric?

Model steam trains are very close to the heart of nearly all Model Train collectors and enthusiasts. They seem to be more emotionally involved in them than they are with the electric model trains. I think there are a number of different reasons for this, which I will explain in this article.

Firstly, model steam trains resemble what the original trains looked like. As model train enthusiasts love authenticity and detail, as well as history, they seem to be drawn toward the model steam trains. Not only this, but many of the model train enthusiasts grew up during the era when steam was replaced by electric. I think this also plays a part in why they love the model steam trains so much.

Not only this, but the model steam trains have far more character than the electric ones. They have moving parts, more detail and bring a real sense of power. Many people think that model steam trains just look better. This means they want the best looking trains and locomotives on their model train track.

There are also other reasons involved. In America, the original steam trains played a big part in their history. As they are now no longer used, many model train hobbyists like to recreate this aspect of history. Of course, the steam trains were also highly influential during the industrial revolution throughout Britain and in Europe.

The days of the steam train are long gone but the experience can be brought to life through model steam trains. This is what many model train hobbyists love about their pastime. They like to create a piece of history again for themselves and their fellow collectors.

Because model trains are like scaled down variations of the originals, you can get a strong sense of what it was like during that great era of the steam trains. Model steam trains are very unique which is something that electric trains are not.

While it is very hard to tell apart one electric train from the next, there are distinct differences with steam trains. Each has their own individual features that make it unique. Some have incredible embroidery on the front, brilliant paintwork and so on. The character of the model steam trains makes them more attractive to collectors.

Because model steam trains are so unique, many of them need to be designed and handcrafted by specialists. This gives a further mystique and air of superiority. Many train hobbyists only like to run and own special edition trains, so the model steam trains fit the mould perfectly.

As such, many model steam trains are now collector’s items and highly sough after. I would recommend model steam trains over the electric model trains, and think you should investigate them. Once people start to buy and collect the model steam trains, they are unlikely to go back to the electric ones.

They give people that chance to relive the great steam age, which has passed us by.

About the Author

Philip Redfearn is an avid model train enthusiast. For more great information on model trains, and to sign up for a free Ultimate Model Railway Secrets 11 lesson mini-course, visit http://www.ultimatemodelrailway.com

Steam Locomotive