Article by Jimmy Devalk
One of the toys that has delighted children everywhere, especially at Christmas or for birthday presents, is the HO Scale Thomas the Tank Trains. This is the little blue 0-6-0 locomotive with the smiling face and his train friends. Along with all the accessories, this serves as the perfect introduction to model railroading for any child. Most of these trains are recommended for any child around 4 or 5 years, although younger ones, if they are properly supervised can enjoy the thrill of having their first train.
All of the HO Scale Thomas the Tank Trains are electric, hence the need for supervision. It is recommended that you read the "Parent's Guide to Toy Trains and Electric Trains" if you are purchasing one of these for your child. Most of these trains are scaled as HO and O gauge in North American, so if you're looking for the smaller scale N gauge, you'll have to go to Japan to find them. Just remember that even though this is a smaller scale, your child's hands are smaller and these would be easier for them to handle.
Popular models to consider
The most popular model to consider for your child is the HO Scale Thomas with Moving Eyes Train. This 4" long locomotive fascinates little ones everywhere with its smiling face and the moving eyes, and has been a popular favorite for quite some time now. HO Scale Thomas the Tank Trains feature a unique coupling system but it is compatible with most HO scale electric trains. Additionally, these are all interchangeable with other accessories in the Thomas product line.
Another recommendation should you be considering HO Scale Thomas the Tank Trains is the complete set which is a great starter pack if you are purchasing your child's first train set. The Ready-to-Run HO Scale Train Set/Fun with Freight series by Bachmann is the ideal starter set and priced under 0 in most cases. Everything you need to get your child into model railroading is all in one box. The set includes:
Thomas the Tank Engine with moving eye4 colorful freight cars featuring hook and loop couplers Snap-fit E-Z Track in a 56" by 38" oval configurationPower pack and speed controllerIllustrated instruction manual
Recommendations about shopping
Aside from the endless amounts of information available on the internet, one of the biggest benefits is the aspect of being able to shop online in the comfort and convenience of your own home. Your best bet is to track down a handful of shopping sites that carry the HO Scale Thomas the Tank Trains product line and price the items before going to a retailer and just purchasing them.
Most product reviews that you find regarding the product line also feature links to numerous online retailers, which enables you to do some comparison price shopping without all the driving around. We have found that this is the easiest way to find the best deals on these and the prices do vary considerably, depending on which shopping sites you are reviewing.