Show Train Expert We just had the SAMRA train show here in San Antonio. As we dismantled everything, I saw one of our very knowledgable members taking down a test track. Our show policy is that any items sold at the show can be tested on this track before purchase. The test track is very elaborate with all scales and both DC and DCC. I asked if he was busy and he said that mostly used items were brought for testing. New-in-the-box items are rarely tested before leaving the show. I thought that was a nice service. I didn't even know it existed until last weekend.
I've come across some pretty terrific bargains at the local yearly show here in Roseville. I don't necessarily go to BUY things, just to browse, but there have been times where I've come across some amazing bargains. This year at the Roseville show, a lady was selling off her late husband's brass SP steam locomotive collection. It was HUGE! And the table was packed with browsers. I joined in and found a terrific bargain on a used Westside SP F-series 2-10-2. I wouldn't have been able to touch the price on consignment. And it runs like a dream. Three years ago, someone was selling an Akane Missabe Yellowstone as a 'junker'. Real bargain-basement price. It was all there, just in parts. I took it home, spent a month giving it a rebuild and some TLC and it's very busy working on my railroad. Runs really nice for a 50+ year old brass hunker, LOL! So yes, I've found some awfully good bargains at train shows. I like going to them, you NEVER know what you'll find. Tom
Deals! The best deals usually come from local shows with small LHS dealers. At bigger train shows the deals usually come from dealers who sell new and used. That's how I find my bargains:tb-biggrin:
I've heard about these "mini-meets" in rooms. Some great stuff has surfaced, with excellent deals being found. Boxcab E50
This may be somewhat off topic, but in looking for good deals don't forget auctions. There are specialized train auctions where I doubt you'd find a great bargin. However estate auctions where trains are part of a hundred other things being sold can be a source of some wonderful finds. Try using Auctionzip.com in looking for an auction in your area.
The poll is missing a middle choice, "I make minor purchases." I can usually find a good deal on used rolling stock. At the show that was just in Long Beach, I got some Atlas cars in great condition, 3 for $10. I got a Roundhouse boxcar with MT trucks/couplers for $6 and a MT car for $6. After shopping on ebay for 3 months, I know those were really good deals. All the locomotives I saw were way over priced, IMO. Even the used ones. You can get much better deals on Ebay or at N Scale Supply.
