Does anyone know anything about model train sets such as Lionel?

[cynatnite]

My autistic grandson is crazy about trains. He loves everything about them. I want to get him a starter set...maybe a Lionel. I'd like for it to be something that will last the long term. Because of his autism, he is very meticulous about how his things are cared for and where he places them. I know I wouldn't have to worry about him treating it as just another toy. In fact, he's meticulous about everything. Everything has its place and is in order.

I need some advice on the best way to get him started. I've done a little reading on the different gauges, but it still doesn't help much. I'm hoping to keep it under a couple of hundred dollars. Under $150 would be preferable.

Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

[HopeHoops]

1. Look for a PM.

[virginia mountainman]

2. Lionel is farly expensive..I would most likely bust your budget if it is $150

That won't even purchase more than a car or two, much less locomotives, track and a power pack..But you can find "O" gauge on sale for less....(O gauge, is the traditional Lionel gauge)

How old is he?? If he is around 9 or older, and as you say "very meticulous" I would recommend HO scale it is the best "bang for your buck" in the modal train world. With loads of relativity inexpensive cars, and locomotives. You can get decent complete starter sets for under $200 new.

If space is tight, you can go N Scale, but it is a little more expensive.

Here is a place where someone could order online!

http://www.trainworldonline.com/catalog/starter-sets/

I would recommend that you stay away from Ebay, most of the scale trains on their are older, and believe it or not, over the past 10 years the inexpensive sets of today, are far better than the better sets of a decade ago (in HO and N scales anyway) Ebay is good for people that know exactly what their looking for, not someone just trying to start out with a child.

BTW, I was into Model Railroading in a big way for many many years! I have a HO scale "empire" all tucked away in boxes..

[RiffRandell]

3. My father has a great collection.

He had a specific room where he built a train table, used to subscribe to Model Railroader magazine and took me to many train shows.

How old is he? My son was fine with the Thomas sets and every week I would get him a new train or set piece and used the 40% off coupon at Michael's so they were pretty cheap.

I think my son will inherit my Dad's set eventually but we have a Lionel caboose he gave him that is displayed in his room.

If he's too old for Thomas, just keep doing research. I'm sure he would love to go to train shows that came to your area. Good luck!

[ThoughtCriminal]

4. There's lots of good used models out there

Especially HO scale.

Watch for local train shows... and estate sales.

One of the sad truths about model railroading is that the population of model train enthusiasts is rapidly aging. The hobby is not in danger of dying off entirely, but it is definitely shrinking from it's peak.

[BlueCollar]

5. Check out Tuesday Morning

before you actually make a purchase. They have some pretty good prices from time-to-time