RMC Perspective

Welcome to RMC Perspective, where we explore the hobby and philospohy of model railroading from a variety of points of view.

The Power of Community

January 17, 2024

The Power of Community

The greatest value imparted by this hobby lies in the community of friends gained by attending events and sharing skills with one another.

Just Another Small Coaling Tower

December 15, 2023

Just Another Small Coaling Tower

A simple Soo Line coal tower took on a life of its own as a contest winner, mass-produced kit, and even a real-life installation.

Suspension of Disbelief

November 16, 2023

Suspension of Disbelief

The hobby of model railroading is much like theater, and there are many simple things you can do to improve the experience of visiting your layout.

A Case for HO Narrow Gauge

October 18, 2023

A Case for HO Narrow Gauge

With so many interesting prototypes from coast to coast, perhaps hobbyists can convince manufacturers to produce more HO narrow gauge models.

Recruiting Operators

September 15, 2023

Recruiting Operators

For as much fun as operating can be, finding operating crews for your model railroad can be a challenge.

One-Town Layouts

August 16, 2023

One-Town Layouts

You don’t need a spacious basement to build a layout! One-town layouts work well if you like operating with a few friends or just by yourself.

Compact and Colorful: Modeling the 1800s

July 23, 2023

Compact and Colorful: Modeling the 1800s

Modeling railroads of the 19th century can be a fun and rewarding experience for those looking for a challenge.

New Uses for Old Parts

June 16, 2023

New Uses for Old Parts

Learning to see new possibilities for pre-made details has saved a lot of frustrating efforts trying to precisely fabricate things.

Souvenirs From the Past

June 6, 2023

Souvenirs From the Past

How many of us “experienced” modelers can remember the special thrill we felt when we started out in this vast, creative hobby we call model railroading?

Modeling The “Bad Old Days”

April 17, 2023

Modeling The “Bad Old Days”

The 1960s were a tough time in American railroading, but a colorful and interesting time to consider as modeling inspiration.