The 2025 O Scale Trains Annual celebrates the art of 1:48 model railroading! Inside you’ll find visits to beautiful layouts, helpful how-to articles on kitbashing and scratchbuilding, a look back at vintage two-rail models, and a showcase of new products for your layout! Our cover story explores the Bay State Model Railroad Museum, established in 1968 in the Roslindale neighborhood of Boston, featuring steam, diesel, and electric operation. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s inside this year’s edition…
Product Showcase — Our listing of exciting products for your O scale model railroad empire, including locomotives, freight cars, structures, decals, scenery items, detail parts, and more.
Accurate O Scale Models from 3-Rail Diesels
by JOHN SETHIAN — Ready-to-run 3-rail diesels from Lionel and MTH can be easily converted into realistic 2-rail models with simple modifications and additional details.
Easy Fall Fence Row
by MATT WOODS — By using a three-layer approach, consisting of readily available commercial products, you can create a realistic fall scene quickly and easily.
Simple Boxcar Weathering
by GEORGE DUTKA — No train stays clean forever, and even a little light weathering can improve the look of our models. This method will help you create realistic effects without breaking the bank.
A Visit to Bay State Model Railroad Museum
by JAY MORRIS — In its current location since 1979, this expansive club layout features extensive railroad and electric traction operations in both urban and suburban settings.
Building a Shay From Brass
by MICHAEL GEORGE — Entirely scratchbuilt from brass sheet, the prototype for this three-truck Shay geared steam locomotive served various owners across North Carolina and Tennessee.