New Model Railroad Magazine: Trackside Model Railroading

A new model railroad magazine—there’s a sentence you don’t get to write much these days.

Called Trackside Model Railroading, the new monthly digital magazine aims to bring “the very best in layout coverage without cutting into your hobby funds.”

According to publishers Ross and Jennifer Waters, Trackside Model Railroading will feature at least two layouts each month, with a focus on photography.

Say the Waters: “The photographs will be dominant, as we believe they are vital to conveying the quality and feel of a layout.”

The magazine will also include how-to articles, current events in the world of railroading and new products.

As for cost, the Waters are charging $1.89 an issue, or $14.99 per year. They accept major credit cards and PayPal. 

Once purchased, the magazine can be read online or downloaded, and viewed on desktop computers, tablets or smartphones.

There is a bit of advertising; there were two advertisers in the first issue: Athearn and BLMA Models.

As for why they started a magazine at all, in the premier issue (available free online) the couple says that it grows out of their interest in trains and photography. 

I have to give the Waters credit for being brave enough to start this venture. Whether digital or print, publishing a magazine is not for the faint of heart.

As for the magazine itself, to me it resembles the old Rail Model Journal (in terms of production values and layout). The photography in the issue is first-rate.

But don’t take my word for it; check it out for yourself.