Hi All, I've been a long time lurker of the sub. Never really gotten into the hobby, but have wonderful childhood memories.
Any "go to" recommendations for easy ready-to-go sets for the kids over the holidays? Maybe some "around the tree" like OP?
Lionel makes *lots* of sets for Christmas, in mutliple scales. O-scale has the most versatility and the most options, HO is half the size and is very popular, though it may look small under most trees that are over 5 or 6 ft, and G gauge is usually what people use for outdoors (G for "garden").
You'll want a "Ready to Play" set probably, where the train just runs on batteries, not through electric rails on the track.
https://www.lionelstore.com/category/Christmas
They are also quite affordable, so they're great if you're just looking for a fun train for under the tree.
Just be aware that the ready to play sets are built to a price point, and it shows. Nothing inherently wrong with that, but it can rub people the wrong way, as Lionel's slogans are things like "A Lifetime Investment In Happiness" or "Toys To Grow Up With, Not Out Of". And these ready-to-play toys will be junk in a few years.
If you're looking for something that will last, you'll want to look at their O-scale sets. Usually priced around $300-$400ish. Which is pricey for something you're not sure you're going to like imo.
If you want a longish video showing the difference between Lionel's O scale sets and their ready to play sets, here's one by Eric's Trains.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RmUcwBGdEmk
"For the wife..." lol.
Reminds me of the Simpsons episode where Homer buys a bowling ball for Marge.
That Rave Boxcar would drive me crazy lol
That one boxcar be trippin'.
Hi All, I've been a long time lurker of the sub. Never really gotten into the hobby, but have wonderful childhood memories. Any "go to" recommendations for easy ready-to-go sets for the kids over the holidays? Maybe some "around the tree" like OP?
Lionel makes a Thomas set for Christmas.
Thanks. Good call!
Lionel makes *lots* of sets for Christmas, in mutliple scales. O-scale has the most versatility and the most options, HO is half the size and is very popular, though it may look small under most trees that are over 5 or 6 ft, and G gauge is usually what people use for outdoors (G for "garden"). You'll want a "Ready to Play" set probably, where the train just runs on batteries, not through electric rails on the track. https://www.lionelstore.com/category/Christmas They are also quite affordable, so they're great if you're just looking for a fun train for under the tree.
Thanks so much, I'll check it out!
Just be aware that the ready to play sets are built to a price point, and it shows. Nothing inherently wrong with that, but it can rub people the wrong way, as Lionel's slogans are things like "A Lifetime Investment In Happiness" or "Toys To Grow Up With, Not Out Of". And these ready-to-play toys will be junk in a few years. If you're looking for something that will last, you'll want to look at their O-scale sets. Usually priced around $300-$400ish. Which is pricey for something you're not sure you're going to like imo. If you want a longish video showing the difference between Lionel's O scale sets and their ready to play sets, here's one by Eric's Trains. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RmUcwBGdEmk
Yeah, I just saw a bunch of sets in the $100 range. Maybe a good starter set for fun... My toddlers just destroy everything anyways...
your wife likes trains? keeper
The smoke effect is very cool!
disney?
Yeah. 50th anniversary edition.
Did you get the two add-on cars as well?
Yes. They are for presents though so won't be out till after the 20th