Factory Direct Hobbies Reviews

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Arend G.
I obviously liked the models. I was happy to receive them. I was "NOT" so happy with the packing of them. These are fragile and extremely vulnerable pieces. The lack of packing material jeopardized the one model damaging it. This created another delivery in which I was charged duty again. Not a very nice transaction. I did receive the replacement though un damaged. Thank you. In future especially for my locomotive purchase I hope Factory Direct packages it with extreme care and attention as it i...
Accurail 3983 Milwaukee Road Rib-Side Boxcars, Billboard Milwaukee Road Lettering 1958-1967, HO
Beverley D.
I showed them to my wife on arrival, and her comment was: "Oh, they're beautiful". Overall I am very pleased with them. Although I have run them briefly, these models will spend their life as static shelf display models. I do have a small layout, but primarily I am a 'collector'.
WalthersProto 920-49915 EMD E8 A-A - Standard DC -- Chicago, Burlington & Quincy #9990 & 9993 (plated sides), HO
Paul R.
I have waited a long time for this unit to come out. I have 3 of them which I installed DCC in. Now I have one with excellent sound in it . It sounds as good as it looks. Tsunami 2 is excellent sound wise . Very pleased with this model
Athearn ATH28776 HO RTR RS-3 w/DCC & Sound, D&RGW #5200
Robert H.
Was easy to assemble. Did the whole thing in flat black and will look great alongside the railroad tugboat. Will add cars on it when on my layout. Very nice.
Walthers Cornerstone 933-3152 Railroad Car Float -- Kit - 39 x 5-1/2 x 1" 99.1 x 14 x 2.5cm, HO Scale
Customer video review of (Brass Hybrid) BLI 6716 Great Northern S-2 4-8-4, #2582, Vestibule Cab, Glacier Green, "Great Northern" Logo, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, Smoke, HO Scale
Nattha P.
Love the look of this loco. The smoke does not operates when tested.. I bought the vestibule version, and noticed that there are two mounting holes on the tender side. I'm not sure if there's supposed to be screws there or not. Otherwise it's a great loco.
(Brass Hybrid) BLI 6716 Great Northern S-2 4-8-4, #2582, Vestibule Cab, Glacier Green, "Great Northern" Logo, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, Smoke, HO Scale
Eugene H.
Very nice models! These 6,000 gallon insulated high pressure tank cars fill a void in every ones tank car fleet. Good detail, beautifully painted. Can't wait to see what freight car comes next!
BLI 6470 6000 Gallon Tank, Variety Set A, 1940’s 2-pack, HO (Monsanto #1021, Columbia Alkali #322)
Stephen S.
This Broadway steam engine is the ultimate B6sb HO scale model. This has been done in the past by others, but never to the level of this detail or accuracy. I also love all of the lighting effects, the DCC sound and keep alive capacitor lets the model run for at least 5 seconds or more after it’s turned off, and the addition of the fan driven smoke effects which are an added bonus. Highly recommended. As always Broadway does not disappoint.
BLI 9170 PRR B6sb 0-6-0, #134, Post-War Appearance, 60S66A Tender, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, HO
Matthew B.
The 1941 Lincoln Continental Convertible is beautifully detailed and accurately represents its full-sized counterpart, including the Darian Blue paint color, which is spot on. The paint colors are accurate to the original. It fits right in with my 1940s to 1950s train layout.
Oxford Diecast 87LC41007 1941 Lincoln Continental Convertible - Assembled -- Darian Blue, Tan, HO
Dan B.
Beautiful kit. I've been lusting after it ever since I saw the finished model on display at a local hobby store. Price was right at Factory Direct Hobbies, delivered quickly. Just started building, I'll update when it's done.
Trumpeter P-40/1S12 Long Track S-band acquisition radar 09569 1:35
James B.
The PikeStuff storefront windows and door kit will provide me with the appropriately sized windows to replicate a concrete block structure I am building for my HO layout. This is a kitbashed structure for which I have prototype photos. Looking forward to getting my project underway.
PikeStuff 1106 Store Front Windows & Door, HO Scale
Gary B.
Due to factory direct hobbies pre order policy, i will like not be pre ordering any items in the future. If it were as necessary to collect the funds when the product ships all supplier’s would have this policy. I feel it is taking a financial risk on my part, it could mean your company is in poor financial shape, and need my payment to make your payment to the manufacturer. If that is the case, it will be a matter of time till a customer gets screwed. That is my take of why you would implemen...
Atlas 10003919 HO U30C PH.1 GOLD PENNSYLVANIA #6539
Michael O.
Received this product and it was without a doubt a God send, I fit it under my N scale track and it fits like a glove, Thanks for the selling of this product.
Woodland Scenics 1472 N Track-Bed Strips (Standard Pack) 2’ 12 Pack
Richard H.
One of my three favorite Pennsy diesels. Should always buy the DCC/Sound units. All of my steamers and most of my deisels are 40+ years old but hese new units are far superior in performance and detail. Thanks for resolving my previous situation.
BLI 7691 BF-16 Sharknose A, PRR 9709, 5-Stripe, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, HO
Thomas N.
The two water towers I purchased fit perfectly on my D&RGW HOn3 layout. I don't have to paint them. All I have to do is set them in place when I start on the scenery portion of my layout.
BLI 7927 Water Tower, Weathered Yellow, Unpowered, NO Sound, HO
Rick B.
The detail on the outside is incredible and the detail inside is great. The only thing missing is lights, which I will add myself. The price was so good after I got the first one I ordered another one. Delivery came faster than expected I am very satisfied.
WalthersProto 920-103204 30’ ATSF 1300-Series Wood Waycar (Caboose) - Ready to Run - Santa Fe - A. T. & S. F. #1307 Pre-1938 Scheme (Mineral Red, white), HO
Michael F.
N&W coal hoppers, what is more appropriate! Great paint and detail. nice job BLI, keep up the good work. Thanks to Factory Direct Hobbies for having stock no one else seems to have.
BLI 7144 N&W H2a Hopper, N&W, 24" Lettering w/ 1960’s Logo, 2-pack A, N
George P.
Thank you for your prompt and efficient service. Even though your staff had to face that awful Helene and had a tough time dealing with their personal lives, let alone the store, you all came through magnificently. I pray all of you are safe and well and property damage was to a minimum. With respect George Pereira Pickering, Canada
Rivarossi HR2952S Cheseapeake & Ohio, articulated steam locomotive 2-6-6-6 "Allegheny", #1653, with DCC sound decoder, HO
Chuck L.
Rapido hit this car out of the park with all its detail, inside and out. I was surprised that it has a lighted interior and is almost friction-free, it rolls like forever! I've waited for decades for anyone to produce these unique dome cars and now the wait is over. Simply amazing!
Rapido 175002 HO SP Dome-Lounge w/Fluted Sides: SP - Daylight: #3605
Joseph M.
I did buy the animated ACME Manufacturing sign that is going on a factory I'm kitbashing. This car and the other cars I preordered will fit perfectly. Always be a big fan of ACME Coyote and Roadrunner since I was a kid. I'm sure it will get a lot of attention. Love what you're doing for the hobby.
Lionel 2454040 HO 40’ Steel Boxcar - Ready to Run - Acme Dynamite #4040 (Boxcar Red, white, orange, Looney Tunes)
Phillip T.
Works reliably in conjunction with the V1 and M1 Unitrack sets. Easy enough to add to a compact layout, however the written instructions are printed in Japanese, but the pictures in said instruction manual can make it a little easier to figure things out. Word of warning, it can be cause derailments if you have a steam locomotive run backwards through the switches to the yard. If you run it forwards through the switches to the yard it's a non-issue. This was tested using a Kato N Scale GS4 So...
Kato 20862 V3 Rail Yard Switch Track Set - Unitrack, N Scale
Robert C.
As usual, a great model, good detail. I grew up alongside the west-shore line of the NYC. While "sharks" didn't frequent it, this reminds me of that old, great road. Ran the models on the club layout and was greatly impressed with the sound and the great slow speed when starting up. Thanks.
BLI 7696 RF-16 Sharknose A/B, NYC 3805/3707, Cigar Band, A-unit Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, Unpowered B, HO
Tice N L.
Excellent quality caboose. As an unlettered model I get to add my own RR name and complete an engine and caboose set for my pike. Excellent transaction, Joe always ships, fast, accurate, and safe.
Bachmann 16806 NE CABOOSE Unlettered, RED, HO
Bradford P.
I enjoy this set of figures so I can put them with one of my houses that has a swimming pool on my layout which happens to be dedicated to the great State of Florida which is purely a land of Endless Summer.
Noch Gmbh 15844 Nude Bathers/Swimmers -- Set #2 pkg(6), HO
Dan W.
The product is recommended in a 1 part Stone Gray to 16 parts water ratio to start. Slowly added more Stone Gray in 1/2 parts. We were satisfied at 2.5 parts Stone Gray to 16 parts water ratio to dye our mountain mold products on our club model train layout.
Woodland Scenics 1218 Stone Gray 4oz
Matthew B.
This HO Scale 1950 Chevrolet 3100 Panel Van gives an authentic feel to my 1940s to 1950 train layout. It is beautifully detailed and accurately represents its full-sized counterpart. The labeling adds to that authentic feel.
Oxford Diecast HO 87CV50005 1950 Chevrolet 3100 Panel Van, Railway Express Agency REA
Matthew B.
This HO Scale 1942 Chrysler Town & Country (Woody) Station Wagon is amazingly detailed and accurate to its full-sized version. Even the paint colors are accurate to the original. It fits right in with my 1940s to 1950 train layout.
Oxford Diecast 553-87CB42003 1942 Chrysler Town and Country Station Wagon - Assembled -- Catalina Tan, Brown, HO
Jai J.
Always a great experience with Factory Direct Trains. The locomotive runs great and looks great. The loco was packed very well and was shipped quickly after ordering online. Awesome place to do business with anytime.
Rapido 048012 HO GE 44 Tonner (DC/Silent): Rio Grande - Black & Yellow: #40
Darrin A.
I am very impressed with the level of detail and quality of Walthers Jordan spreader. Walthers did a Great job on the tooling of the product. I would definitely recommend this product to anyone.
Walthers 920-110129 Jordan Spreader - Ready to Run -- Milwaukee Road #X-286, HO
Charles L.
Excellent model and well detailed. My Father took photos of these units in operation on the New Haven Railroad so I had to have a couple of them as they ran in pairs.
Rapido 023058 HO PA-1 (DC/Silent): New Haven - Orange Scheme: #0760
Rustom M.
Hi, Easy ordering process, prompt response, efficient delivery. Well packed and labelled. The box was intact and in good condition. This particular caboose was chosen due to its highly detailed interior and exterior, including underbelly. The sound and lights is a new attraction, a first in a caboose. Though I have not yet had the opportunity to run it, nor taken a picture or video of it, but I believe it is super! Long gloated over it, though!!! Highly appreciate your service, please keep i...
Athearn Genesis HO G78398 Bay Window Caboose with Lights and Sound, Willamette and Pacific #2
Christian B.
Fast shipping, easy to place and pay for my order on my mobile device!! Will definitely keep on my short list, as I am just diving into my first permanent layout!!
Kato USA 24-84TC TURNOUT CABLE, HO AND N Scale
Clark O.
Had a problem with my order and these good people jumped on and took care of it right away. Replacement product arrived within two days. Would definitely do business with them again.
Plastruct 91005 SSA-106 2pk ABS SHEET .060
Charles H.
The box car is great! Too bad it took 18 months from the time I placed the order until I received it. I understand that has become the norm, and it is not your fault. It just makes me less likely to purchase new train items. (Of course, another reason is the increased cost.) I'm moving my focus now to buying old Athearn Blue Boxes cheaply and upgrading them with good wheels and couplers. The slight loss of detail compared to modern products is a non-issue for me. I may still buy a new loco...
Athearn ATH18702 HO 50’ FMC 5347 Box, MEC/Pan Am #31578
William M.
Product very well packaged. The locomotive is mounted to the shopping floor with two screws. When I put it on the track to test run it immediately moved. The throttle is normally set to illuminate led but this motor is such a low draw (and quiet) that I will need to reset the lower voltage limit so I can stop. Best running locomotive I have seen in over 65 years in the hobby. The locomotive looks as good as it runs. There are no instructions for the four parts included in the packaging. Not ...
Atlas 10004458 EMD SD35 Low Nose - Standard DC - Master(R) Silver -- Great Lakes Central #386 (blue, black), HO
Dean H.
Perfect fit for what I needed it for so glad that they found factory direct. You guys are on the top of the list for next.O scale building project on my layout
Northeastern Scale Lumber 571 Quarter Round Moulding -- 1/16 x 24" .16 x 60.96cm, All Scales
Philip C.
Heavyweight and lightweight observation cars and railroad executive business cars have not been offered for a number of years. The pre-order and limited availability of in stock items, when they finally ship has been frustrating. BLI has made a beautiful product. My New York Central Steam Transition Era passenger fleet has a welcome new addition.
BLI 8956 New York Central Business Car, #11, HO
Philip C.
Heavyweight and lightweight observation cars and railroad executive business cars have not been offered for a number of years. The pre-order and limited availability of in stock items, when they finally ship has been frustrating. BLI has made a beautiful product. My PRR Steam Transition era passenger fleet has a welcome new addition.
BLI 8972 Z74D Business Car, PRR 7510, "Pittsburgher", Late 1940’s, HO
Paul D.
Fantastic car, in fact I bought two with the intention of changing the name and number for a fictional railroad. Don’t have a layout just displays. Also, you are great company that provides exceptional service and prices. Thank you
BLI 8972 Z74D Business Car, PRR 7510, "Pittsburgher", Late 1940’s, HO
Customer photo review of ATLAS HO TM 68' BULKHEAD FLAT CAR TTX [FORWARD THINKING] #80643
Lynn S.
This is an excellent model and works well with my other equipment. It's perfect for moving loads such as tractors and various other items.
ATLAS HO TM 68’ BULKHEAD FLAT CAR TTX [FORWARD THINKING] #80643
Customer photo review of Athearn HO Bay Window Caboose, NKP #417
Warren H.
This is a beautiful caboose with great detail and it looks great bringing up the rear of an NKP train.
Athearn HO Bay Window Caboose, NKP #417
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