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!

Canadian National Caramat Sub in HO Scale

April 16, 2026

Canadian National Caramat Sub in HO Scale

This well-designed HO layout recreates 1990s CN and VIA Rail main line railroading in Northwestern Ontario.

Build St. Johnsbury’s Purina Complex

April 16, 2026

Build St. Johnsbury’s Purina Complex

This kitbashed HO model is inspired by a large rail-served feed mill located in Vermont, but it typical of facilities across the country.

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.