If you want a good beginning model train, the O model railroad is probably the one you should start with. It is a larger scale, 1:48, and is ideal for people who have arthritis, or poor eyesight, and it well suited for children. One of the things you will want to consider when choosing this scale is that it will take up more space and so you will need enough room, no matter where you are planning to set it up. Many may remember toy trains chugging around a track under the Christmas tree, and many of them were the O model.
The O model railroad is very highly detailed, and the engines and cars are really durable. You can find just as many parts and accessories for this scale as you would with the other popular HO scale, and you can even create your own scenery if you plan it right. For example, you can use recycled cans to create water towers, and use cardboard boxes for buildings. Even some small toys around the house can be incorporated into many layouts, and if you have kids, this is a great way for them to be able to contribute to the hobby.
There are different kinds of O model railroad trains available, depending on how in depth you want to go. You can find engines and cars that you have to assemble yourself. With basic skills and tools, and the ability to follow instructions, you can create wonderful trains. There are also ready to run models, which all you have to do is set up the track, plug in the transformer and you are ready to go.
If you are just beginning, or have the family involved, this may be where to start. If you still want to feel that you have made something yourself, there are many accessory kits that have buildings that are prefabricated, and all you have to do is put them together. Many of these will include E-Z track, which has the track and base as one easy to snap together piece and the base is usually very realistic, which adds to the look of the layout.
There are many different places that you can find good basic O model railroad sets. You can look in your local hobby stores; there are some good basic sets at many mass-marketing retailers, as well as an abundance online. As with any hobby, you are looking at some investment, but it is well worth it.
For example, the Lionel O-Gauge B&O Ready To Run train set is an Heirloom quality set that comes with a 4-4-2 die cast metal locomotive, with realistic looking puffing smoke, and a real working headlight. It also includes one boxcar, a gondola car, and a red caboose, as well as enough track for a 40?x60? oval track. You also get a Sentinel boxcar, a bridge, and ten telephone poles. You can purchase this set for just under $200, at many outlets.