The world’s most popular model train scale is HO, making HO model trains some of the most in-demand products. You can intermix parts, tracks, replicas, engines and more to make your model to your liking.

Starting with an HO scale model train:

Complete train sets are perfect if you want to get started on your modeling quickly. Buying a train set is probably how most experienced railway modelers got their start, if they remember that. However, at some point you’ll probably want to progress in the hobby and that’s when you might consider adding individual items like an extra locomotive or some structures.

If you’re just starting out with a train game, then there are plenty of options. One option is the Bachmann HO Scale Overland Limited train set, which is quite a large set with 11 cars in all; including the Union Pacific 4-8-4 steam locomotive and wide-view caboose at the end. This is a great train set to start with, and one you can add to as you continue to collect. Set comes with 12 curved track pieces, 5 straight track pieces, and 1 terminal rerailer add-on. The Union Pacific locomotive also comes equipped with two cool features: working smoke and headlights.

This is a lot to start with, but it’s a set to consider when planning to start your collection.

Take it down a bit:

If you prefer to have a smaller HO model train, find a 5 or 4 car set to start with, and then add from there. The Athearn HO Scale Iron Horse Express Train Set has a total of 5 carriages. Three freight cars with a matching caboose and at the front at the head is the GP38-2 locomotive. Set includes a 36″ x 45″ Bachmann EZ Track oval with a gray platform. The entire set is powered by an Athearn TrainPak power supply. The set follows the CSX model.

This train set is much smaller and can be added. This would be recommended as a good starter set to add to as time goes on.

Piece by piece:

If you prefer to make your own HO model train set piece by piece, there are ways to do that too. Choose a locomotive, some extra cars, a matching caboose and a track.

A good locomotive to add to your track would be the Bachmann HO Scale 2-6-0 Mogul Steam Locomotive, inspired by the Pennsylvania Railroad.

Once you’ve chosen a good locomotive to drive your train, you’ll want to select your additional cars. Depending on your choice of locomotive, you will need to decide which additional cars fit the style of that locomotive and whether you are looking for a passenger train or a freight train. For passenger trains, there are nice passenger car sets that you can put up with a locomotive. One of many is the Walthers HO Scale Ready-to-Run 85′ Amfleet-II Coach. Its appearance dates back to the 1990s, but it also looks like a coach because you would see it today. However, these passenger coaches can add up quickly with the price of just one separate from the complete set.

Now that you have decided what type of train you will have, you need the correct track set. You can get very detailed in this area, deciding between deck material and railroad ties to rail junctions. There are so many options, especially when you can tailor the materials to your needs and desires. However, this gets very specific and expensive quickly.

The train you build and the track you place it on reflects your style, interests and love of trains, so be picky and take your time in choosing the right HO model trains and accessories.