There are several unique and unusual model railroad magazines available for enthusiasts that offer a different perspective on this beloved hobby. Let’s take a look at some of the most interesting options:
1. Narrow Gauge & Short Line Gazette
The Narrow Gauge & Short Line Gazette is a niche magazine that focuses on smaller scales and unconventional modeling techniques. This magazine caters to enthusiasts who are interested in narrow gauge railroads and short line operations, offering in-depth articles and stunning photography of these unique layouts.
2. Garden Railways
Garden Railways is a magazine that combines two popular hobbies – model railroading and gardening. This publication showcases how model railroads can be integrated into outdoor spaces, featuring layouts that run through lush gardens and natural landscapes. Garden Railways offers inspiration for creating a harmonious blend of trains and greenery in your backyard.
3. O Scale Trains Magazine
O Scale Trains Magazine caters specifically to enthusiasts of O scale model railroading, which is less common compared to HO or N scale. This publication covers a wide range of topics related to O scale modeling, including layout design, detailing techniques, and product reviews. O Scale Trains Magazine is a valuable resource for those passionate about this scale.
4. Continental Modeller
Continental Modeller is a UK-based magazine that focuses on European prototype modeling, offering a unique perspective for enthusiasts who are interested in recreating railways from across the pond. This publication covers a variety of European railway topics, including layout construction, rolling stock, and historical articles about different regions.
5. Narrow Lines
Narrow Lines is a magazine dedicated to narrow gauge model railroading, catering to those who have a specific interest in this specialized area of the hobby. This publication features layouts, product reviews, and prototype information related to narrow gauge railways, providing insight and inspiration for enthusiasts looking to delve into this unique aspect of model railroading.
6. Light Iron Digest
Light Iron Digest is a magazine that focuses on modeling industrial and narrow gauge railways, with an emphasis on the historical and operational aspects of these unique prototypes. This publication offers a different perspective on model railroading, delving into the intricacies of industrial railroads and showcasing layouts inspired by these lesser-known operations.
7. The Journal of the Irish Railway Record Society
The Journal of the Irish Railway Record Society is a publication that caters to enthusiasts interested in Irish railway history and modeling. This magazine offers articles on Irish railways past and present, as well as modeling projects that recreate the unique charm of Irish railroads. The Journal of the Irish Railway Record Society is a valuable resource for those with a specific interest in Irish railroading.
8. Railfan & Railroad
Railfan & Railroad is a magazine that covers both full-size railroads and model railroading, offering a diverse range of content for enthusiasts who are interested in both aspects of the hobby. This publication features articles on real-life railroads, as well as modeling tips, layout tours, and product reviews for the model railroading community. Railfan & Railroad provides a comprehensive look at the world of trains, both large and small.
9. Narrow Gauge Downunder
Narrow Gauge Downunder is an Australian publication that focuses on modeling narrow gauge railways from around the world, with a particular emphasis on Australian prototypes. This magazine offers a unique perspective on narrow gauge modeling, showcasing layouts, kit building projects, and historical articles related to narrow gauge railways. Narrow Gauge Downunder is a great resource for enthusiasts looking to explore the world of narrow gauge railroading.
10. Diesel Era
While not exclusively focused on model railroading, Diesel Era is a magazine that covers diesel locomotives from the 1930s to the present day, offering valuable historical and technical information for modelers interested in diesel-era railroads. This publication features articles on diesel locomotive models, prototype developments, and modeling techniques for recreating the diesel era on model railroad layouts.