Best starter set

[Boog]

My son is almost 16 months, for christmas i want to get him a basic train set to go around the tree, but i want it to be something that we can grow with over the years by adding stuff to it at christmas and birthdays and other gift giving events. can someone suggest a set to buy, does not have to be expensive but i don't want something we'll have problems with later. thanks in advance

 

[jayl1]

Since your son is still young, you might consider an ON30 set by Bachmann. The engines & cars are large but run on HO track.
As for HO - I would suggest NOT buying a pre-pckaged set since most are "cheapie" items. Consider making up your own set - Atlas track, MRC power pack, quality cars like Atlas, Trainman, Athearn. For a locomotive, Atlas & Athearn are a good value (and there are other good manufacturers). The pre-packages sets (Lifelike & Bachmann unless it is a Spectrum) are usually low quality. Pay more now & have something that will last.
Personally I feel N gauge is too small for the little guy.

I'm sure you will get many more opinions on this subject.

Jay

 

[Boog]

thanks for the info, ill start looking into those, can you recommend a good website that's good to work with and do you know if hobby lobby carries stuff for trains

 

[jayl1]

Try www.modeltrainstuff.com (M.B. Klein) just outside Baltimore, Maryland. Many follks on this list have used them. They also may have starter sets by Atlas & Athearn.

There are plenty of other reliable on-line merchants. I'm sure other members can name some.

Now as for what's available go to www.walthers.com. HOWEVER their prices are full retail. Many shops do give discounts (and advise if needed).