RMC Extra Board

Welcome to Craftsman Extra Board! This section is updated periodically with short features contributed by our readers, as well as some recent favorites straight from the pages of Railroad Model Craftsman. Check back as we continue to add new articles!

Mike Rose’s Conrail Lehigh Line in HO Scale

March 14, 2026

Mike Rose’s Conrail Lehigh Line in HO Scale

This expansive HO scale model railroad captures the essence of classic Conrail operations in eastern Pennsylvania.

A Modeler’s Guide to Conrail Eras

March 14, 2026

A Modeler’s Guide to Conrail Eras

Covering the various eras of Conrail from the early “rainbow” years to the post-split era of CSX and Norfolk Southern.

Isn’t That Special?

February 15, 2026

Isn’t That Special?

From work extras to passenger specials and dimensional loads, restrictions and special cargo moves add operational interest to your layout.

New England Style: the HO Scale South River & Millville Railroad

February 15, 2026

New England Style: the HO Scale South River & Millville Railroad

This tribute to New England railroading is a showcase for detailed HO structures and beautiful Northeastern scenery.

Denver & Rio Grande Western Gunnison Division in HO

January 20, 2026

Denver & Rio Grande Western Gunnison Division in HO

Art Lort’s detailed HO layout combines standard and narrow gauge operations on the Denver & Rio Grande Western set in 1928.

Rebuilding Classic Brass ‘Red Cars’

January 20, 2026

Rebuilding Classic Brass ‘Red Cars’

Upgrading details and drivetrains of older brass models of Pacific Electric freight motors imported by Suydam.

BNSF on Marias Pass

December 15, 2025

BNSF on Marias Pass

Modern main line action in HO scale along Montana’s Glacier National Park, with a focus on manned helper operations.

Scratchbuild a Coaling Trestle in HO

December 15, 2025

Scratchbuild a Coaling Trestle in HO

Scratchbuild a realistic alternative to tall coaling towers for engine facilities, based on a Colorado Midland prototype once located in Basalt.

Delaware & Susquehanna

November 18, 2025

Delaware & Susquehanna

This proto-freelanced HO layout based on operations in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Gorge region employs a multi-level design for maximum main line running.

Model Mecca: New London, Connecticut

November 17, 2025

Model Mecca: New London, Connecticut

This Connecticut shoreline city was once served by New Haven and Central Vermont, and is the perfect setting for a model railroad.