Micro Layout

     I came across an interesting item in my toy shop inventory and just had to share it with everyone. For all you micro-layout enthusiasts, I give you the ultimate in micro model railroads.

     It's a 6" x 9" modular layout with scenery encompassing an urban center, rural farmland, lakefront, and mountains. The track plan is a double-twisted single track mainline, with lots of tight curves. Minimum turn radius is approximately 3/4", but the little 0-4-0T navigates them handily. 

     No DCC to worry about here, as the engine is powered by a clockwork that pushes the little engine around at breakneck speeds. Track detail is a little understated, having no rails, ties, nor ballast, but the little barnyard details are quite realistic. The water effect on the lake is nice also, shining like the clearest of plastic.

     The engine boasts working side rods, excellent rivet detail, working rear coupler, and room to add an engineer and fireman. Available colors are red, yellow, and blue, but the only roadname is "Western Express" and all engines are numbered 108, so forget your dreams of building a basement empire with these little critters. 

     Slow speed operation is a little jumpy, going from a standstill to about 60mph instantaneously, yet still the little engine holds fast in the turns and derailments are rare! And with a retail price under $9.00(US) model railroading has never been more affordable =)