The Roundhouse Dispatch shares model railroading stories, product news, community updates, and hobby tips—all in one place. Whether you’re into HO, N, or just starting out, you’ll find inspiration and information to fuel your passion.
Turnout Basics: #4 vs #6 vs #8 — Where Each One Belongs
New to turnouts? The frog number tells you how sharp the diverging route is: a #4 spreads 1 unit for every 4 units forward (sharper); a #8 spreads 1 for…
The Rise of Pullman Cars: How George Pullman Brought Luxury to Rail Travel
For today’s model railroaders, the Pullman sleeper car represents more than a piece of rolling stock—it’s a symbol of innovation, luxury, and storytelling on the rails. Whether you’re recreating a…
The 7 Best Model Train Sets to Buy – 2025
Model railroading has a unique charm: it blends engineering, creativity, and nostalgia in one hobby. But the hardest part for many newcomers—or gift-givers—is choosing the right train set to start…
Yard Goats 101: Why Switchers Steal the Show on Small Layouts
In railroading slang, a “yard goat” is a switcher locomotive—compact, tough, and built to shuffle cars with precision. On small model train layouts, these little workhorses, aka switchers, don’t just…
Everything You Need to Know About S Scale Model Trains
Model railroading offers a wide variety of scales, each with its own advantages and personality. While HO and N scale often dominate discussions, S scale model trains have carved out…
Z Scale Model Trains: The Smallest Scale with Big Potential
When it comes to model railroading, Z scale is often described as the ultimate space-saver. First introduced by Märklin in 1972, Z scale trains are tiny marvels of engineering that…
Couplers Explained: Horn-Hook vs. Knuckle and What Works in Each Scale
When trains mysteriously uncouple or refuse to mate, the culprit is often the couplers. Two names come up most: horn-hook (also called X2f) and knuckle. Understanding the differences—and what fits…
Essential Track Cleaning Routine You Can Do in 10 Minutes
If your trains stutter, stall, or sound like they’re crunching gravel, the fix is usually simple: clean the rails. You don’t need a shop full of chemicals or an entire…
G Scale Model Trains: The Grand Scale of Garden Railroading
G scale model trains are the giants of the model railroading world—literally. Often found winding through gardens, around patios, or along backyard trestles, G scale combines rugged durability with eye-catching…
O Scale Model Trains: Big, Bold, and Full of Character
When it comes to model railroading, few scales evoke the same sense of nostalgia and presence as O scale. With their substantial size, incredible detail, and deep-rooted history, O scale…
Rolling Stock Through the Ages: A Look at the Different Types of Railroad Cars
When you think of trains, your mind might jump to a sleek diesel engine or the iconic silhouette of a steam locomotive. But the true heart of any railroad isn’t…
N Scale Trains: Big Railroading in a Small Package
Model railroading is a world where imagination meets precision, and for those who love detail without sacrificing space, N scale might just be the perfect fit. As the second most…
How to Wire A HO Scale Model Train Layout
Wiring an HO scale model train layout can feel intimidating, especially for beginners diving into the electrical side of the hobby. But with a little planning and the right tools,…
How to Set Up Your First HO Scale Train Set
Introduction: Starting Your HO Scale Journey So you’ve decided to start your first model railroad—welcome aboard! Whether you’re rediscovering a childhood hobby or diving in for the first time, HO…
A Beginner’s Guide to Steam Locomotive Types: From Real Rails to Model Tracks
Steam locomotives drove the industrial revolution and continue to inspire model railroading. In this guide, we explore the different types, their eras, purposes, nicknames, and model equivalents—perfect for newcomers and…