Notes on Designing, Building, and Operating Model Railroads

RPM Valley Forge summary

Wow, what a weekend! The 2026 RPM Valley Forge event in Malvern, Pennsylvania was great fun. It had been about six months since the last railroad prototype modeler (RPM) meet I attended. I needed to recharge my hobby inspiration.

3D printed freight cars

Zenith Model Works PRR X24 automobile box car

A number of small companies and consortiums have been producing 3D printed freight cars over the last several years. Many of the models have reflected post-WW2 prototypes but that has started to change.

The Minster Branch – Update 4

Another installment on the Minster Branch project has arrived from Dave Campbell. Here’s his report.

With the benchwork in place, it was time to get serious about developing the first scene on my new layout. It’s the section of Saint Marys, Ohio, up to the wye that marks the beginning of the Minster Branch. The lead photo above was how this section appeared in the last update.

2026 RPM season

Another RPM season is beginning! A couple of railroad prototype modeler (RPM) events have already occurred this year. The calendar ahead is chock full of more.

Motorized drills

I am frequently asked how I drill all the holes in my freight car kits. I’ve made mention in past posts that I use motorized drills to make easy work of the tasks. I guess it’s time to feature those tools.