When someone says model trains, one name inevitably comes to mind, Lionel model trains. If you had a train set as a child or if your parents put one up only around the tree at Christmas time, odds are it was a Lionel. The Lionel train has been around since 1901.

Originally designed to be a store display, these trains have graced windows and homes for over a century. The earliest models did not run on electricity, as most homes did not have it yet, but acid filled batteries. Not really the best choice for a toy, but there were not many options back then.

As electricity became readily available, Lionel was right there to incorporate this power source into their collections. They released their O scale and it was an instant hit. Being the perfect size to set up on a table in the basement or around the tree, people were flocking to buy them. It was at this time that Lionel started to create the reputation that they still hold onto today.

All Lionel train sets are ready to run, right out of the box. Just put the track together, set the train on, plug in and go. Lionel model trains are all UL listed and safe for children of almost any age. Coming in a variety of shapes and sizes, they are perfect for just about any home.

One of the unique things that Lionel model trains can offer that other companies cannot is their long history. Having made trains for over a century, they have true collector’s items that no other train company can boast. If you are lucky enough to get one of the original trains, you will have to hoist a 4 pound car that is a complete contrast to what you see today.

You can never discount name recognition and Lionel definitely has that. In addition to being one of the most recognizable names in the industry, they are also one of the most reliable. Year in and year out, they put out products that satisfy collectors at every level. If you have seen a train display that had you wanting to back to the hobby store, there was a very good chance that they were Lionel model trains.

One thing that you can be sure of is that, regardless of the type of trains that you are looking to add to your collection, Lionel should have something that will you will enjoy for many years to come. Boasting one of the largest and readily available collections in the hobby, you can make no better choice that to start out your new hobby with Lionel model trains.

Dee Ross is a model railroading enthusiast. For a fun and easy introduction to model railroading, get your free subscription to the Toy Model Train Secrets Mini Course. Learn more about Lionel model trains, at Lionel Model Trains.