Factory Direct Hobbies Reviews

Factory Direct Hobbies ReviewsSee store reviews

Customer photo review of Central Valley Models 1904 72' Plate Girder Bridge (Double Track), HO Scale
Leonard B.
I love these bridges, and once I’ve finished building them I’m a totally happy camper. But they don’t come without their irritations. I don’t mind a difficult project but I really don’t want the instructions and/or the diagrams to be the cause of the difficulty. This being said, they are very reasonably priced for the quality of the finished product and well worth the muttering I engage in while putting them together.
Central Valley Models 1904 72’ Plate Girder Bridge (Double Track), HO Scale
Customer photo review of BLI 7337 2-8-0 Consolidation, TH&B 103, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, Smoke, HO
Jeff N.
This engine is very well suited to a small layout with small radius curves. That doesn't mean it is a lightweight. It has great sound and lighting effects and it is a strong puller too. I love that is is available in TH&B, which was a key reason for purchase. The service I received from Factory Direct was great too. Highly recommend both the engine and the hobby shop.
BLI 7337 2-8-0 Consolidation, TH&B 103, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, Smoke, HO
Customer photo review of BLI 7342 2-8-0 Consolidation, Unlettered, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, Smoke, HO
Curtis B.
This is a reissue of Broadway Limited's 2-8-0, this time with Paragon 4 Rolling Thunder sound technology. I chose the undecorated version as I plan to make a few modifications to the tender body and add a couple of details to the engine so it will better represent a Norfolk Southern class E-3. The model runs very smoothly especially at low speeds necessary for switching. As a test, I hooked 30 freight cars plus a caboose and it pulled the train without any sign of strain or slipping. The engine ...
BLI 7342 2-8-0 Consolidation, Unlettered, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, Smoke, HO
Customer photo review of Rapido HO AutoFlood III RD Coal Hopper: BNSF Wedge scheme, Detail Variations: 6-pack includes the following numbers, all individually packaged: #652830 #652855 #652884 #652900 #652921 #652954
Derek F.
These Rapido cars are incredible. The six-car set is a bit expensive, and I was very thankful to find them at a pretty decent sale price at Factory Direct Hobbies. The cars have incredible detail and blow away all other coal cars I have in my fleet. I bought the six-car set and also one individual car that FDH had. Hoping to find another set in the future (Rapido makes 3 versions of the six-car set).
Rapido HO AutoFlood III RD Coal Hopper: BNSF Wedge scheme, Detail Variations: 6-pack includes the following numbers, all individually packaged: #652830 #652855 #652884 #652900 #652921 #652954
Customer photo review of Rapido HO AutoFlood III RD Coal Hopper: BNSF Wedge scheme, Detail Variations: Single Car - random car #
Derek F.
Excellent work from Rapido. And a good price from Factory Direct Hobbies. This car has incredible detail. The removable coal load must have a little steel insert inside it. Rapido provides a wand with a magnet which allows you to easily lift out the load without picking up the car and shaking it out upside down. Excellent contraption. I'll be buying more if I can find them from Factory Direct Hobbies!
Rapido HO AutoFlood III RD Coal Hopper: BNSF Wedge scheme, Detail Variations: Single Car - random car #
Customer photo review of WalthersMainline 910-1261  Trinity 25,000-Gallon Tank Car - Ready to Run -- PBF Holding Co. DPRX #255989 (black, white, yellow conspicuity stripes), HO
Richard C.
Well protected packaging, high quality & detail for the price. I have bought many products from Factory Direct Hobbies and have been happy with all transactions and customer service. Walthers "Mainline" products are top notch, quality and trouble free. Buy it and run it, that's it. FUN!
WalthersMainline 910-1261 Trinity 25,000-Gallon Tank Car - Ready to Run -- PBF Holding Co. DPRX #255989 (black, white, yellow conspicuity stripes), HO
Customer photo review of BLI 8473 40' Wood Stock Car, Halloween Season Theme, Spooky Sounds, N+1
Gregg L.
I can’t get enough of these cars with sounds. I create holiday train videos and this boxcar is going to be a blast! Please keep them coming! They really bring out the little kid in me! Check out the video clip. You won’t be disappointed!
BLI 8473 40’ Wood Stock Car, Halloween Season Theme, Spooky Sounds, N
Customer photo review of (Brass Hybrid) BLI 6184 PRR S2 6-8-6 Turbine #6200, as-built version, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, Smoke, HO
Chris J.
I have done a few pre orders through factory direct Hobbies. I have never had an issue and shipping is fast and communication is good. Prices are also fair compared to competitors. I’ll continue to pre order from here.
(Brass Hybrid) BLI 6184 PRR S2 6-8-6 Turbine #6200, as-built version, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, Smoke, HO
Customer photo review of Rapido 171051A SP B-50-16 Boxcar: 1931 to 1946 scheme - As Built w/ Viking Roof: Single Car, HO
Matthew C.
I absolutely love the single car that I got it rolls without a problem I had just barely put it on the track at my club layout and it started rolling without me even touching it or without putting oil on the wheels so I’d give these Rapido cars a five out of five stars. PS the store credit that factory direct gives you as part of the purchase it’s just the icing on the cake so that’s a win for me to
Rapido 171051A SP B-50-16 Boxcar: 1931 to 1946 scheme - As Built w/ Viking Roof: Single Car, HO
Customer video review of Athearn ATH71589 HO RTR SD39 w/DCC & Sound, CBRY #303
Mark H.
I liked the option to change the railing to black pieces. It run well. Lighting is basic, sound flexibility is ok. But the sound quality is high, & it runs perfectly, smooth, quiet without sound in, great when slow at half-velocity. No jerking. Detailing is above expectations. Access to the decoder it amazingly easy. Looks great on my beginning layout when running beside other trains.
Athearn ATH71589 HO RTR SD39 w/DCC & Sound, CBRY #303
Customer video review of BLI 7232 UP Big Boy, Unlettered, 1941, As-Delivered Aftercooler, 25-C-100 Coal Tender, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, Smoke, N
Al D.
I have always loved BIG STEAM engines. This model is wonderfully detailed and runs really well even on 11 inch curves, though it looks much better on wider curves. It handles #6 switches and will take #4 switches at slower speeds. With a rerailer (e.g. Kato) it is really easy to get on the tracks. I've had it pull 30 cars on flat ground. The sounds are mesmerizing. The smoke is a steady stream rather than a chug and it takes some practice to get the reservoir full but it is worth the effort. Th...
BLI 7232 UP Big Boy, Unlettered, 1941, As-Delivered Aftercooler, 25-C-100 Coal Tender, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, Smoke, N
Customer photo review of WalthersTrack 948-83104 Code 83 or 100 Insulated Rail Joiners -- pkg(24),  HO
Kent C.
I have become convinced that isolating rail sections is important to flawless DCC operation. In accordance with that principle, I am subdividing my DCC sections into individual blocks, similar to DC control. One of the big advantages of using the system is that I can put an engine on a siding and turn off the electricity. That way, I don't have too many locomotives making noises. Also, short prevention is a side benefit.
WalthersTrack 948-83104 Code 83 or 100 Insulated Rail Joiners -- pkg(24), HO
Customer photo review of WalthersTrack 948-83103 Code 83 or 100 Nickel Silver Terminal Joiners pkg(2) -- Includes Black 22-Gauge Wire,  HO
Kent C.
Walther terminal rail joiners are tinned on the wire end. When soldering the wires to anything else the tinning saves time. Also, due to the necessity of providing multiple feeds of DCC, electricity, and control messaging, it is important to have as many electrical feeds to your track as possible. I am relaying a section of track to upgrade it to DCC standards. Part of that upgrading program includes putting terminal rail joiners at every point of connection. It is worth the expense. The new se...
WalthersTrack 948-83103 Code 83 or 100 Nickel Silver Terminal Joiners pkg(2) -- Includes Black 22-Gauge Wire, HO
Customer video review of Athearn HO G2 SD90MAC, INRD #9025
Douglas P.
I bought this beautiful engine from Factory Direct Hobbies. They were fast to get it to me once it came in. I ordered the DCC ready version because I wanted to put my own decoder in it. It runs great. It sounds great. I have it pulling 30 cars by itself with ease. Factory Direct Hobbies always seems to get the best of selection from suppliers. This engine complements my Indiana custom built SD40-2's. I had also purchased the undecorated version of them from Factory Direct Hobbies. Thanks,...
Athearn HO G2 SD90MAC, INRD #9025
Customer photo review of WalthersMainline 910-3965 57' Mechanical Reefer - Ready to Run -- Southern Pacific(TM) SPFE #456349, HO
Lynn S.
I'm very impressed with the detail and authentic models Walthers has in their product line. This car goes very well with other similar cars I have in my collection of rolling stock.
WalthersMainline 910-3965 57’ Mechanical Reefer - Ready to Run -- Southern Pacific(TM) SPFE #456349, HO
Customer photo review of WalthersMainline 910-3950 57' Mechanical Reefer - Ready to Run -- Union Pacific(R) American Refrigerator Transit(TM) ARMN #756065, HO
Lynn S.
This car along with other Walthers cars I have is very detailed and is an excellent model. It compliments my other cars and is a wonderful addition to my rolling stock.
WalthersMainline 910-3950 57’ Mechanical Reefer - Ready to Run -- Union Pacific(R) American Refrigerator Transit(TM) ARMN #756065, HO
Customer photo review of Athearn ATHG71817 HO Genesis GP38-2 w/DCC & Sound, HLCX #3812
Edmund N.
I have wanted a HLCX Helm Leasing Company GP38-2 for a long time. When checking with Factory Direct the subject model appeared and it is now working in my fleet. Delivery was almost next day.
Athearn ATHG71817 HO Genesis GP38-2 w/DCC & Sound, HLCX #3812
Customer photo review of BLI 2510 Baldwin Centipede A-A Set, UP #1600A/1601A Set, Yellow & Gray, both units w/ Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, HO
David R.
Greatest gift of my adult life? Quite possibly yes! Smooth running and really the best sounding engine(s) I’ve owned. The quality and precision expected from BLI kicked up a couple notches.
BLI 2510 Baldwin Centipede A-A Set, UP #1600A/1601A Set, Yellow & Gray, both units w/ Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, HO
Customer photo review of BLI 3938 EMD SW7, MEC 332, Maroon/Yellow/Black, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, N
Al D.
This is an excellent running model. It is a work horse for sure. I also use it for branch line passenger service and looks great pulling a couple of MEC Green passenger cars. The sound is very good for this type of engine. It sounds like a Harley! Cheers
BLI 3938 EMD SW7, MEC 332, Maroon/Yellow/Black, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, N
Customer photo review of Walthers 910-20363 EMD SD50 - ESU(R) Sound and DCC -- Chessie System - Chesapeake & Ohio #8561, HO
David H.
I just purchased this Walther's EDM SD50 and I am very pleased with it. It has great detail and has sufficient weight to pull a generous number of cars. Shipping was prompt and it was well packed. All in all a great value.
Walthers 910-20363 EMD SD50 - ESU(R) Sound and DCC -- Chessie System - Chesapeake & Ohio #8561, HO
Customer photo review of Trumpeter North American P-51D Mustang 02401 1:24
Michael K.
The Trumpeter 1/24 Mustang is a superb build at a bargain price point! It has around the same level of detail as the Tamiya 1/32 offering but the larger scale makes for an easier build with a more impressive result due to its size! I have built three of them and each has been a joy! Heartily recommended!
Trumpeter North American P-51D Mustang 02401 1:24
Customer video review of BLI 6784 EMD SD40-2, Family Lines System, L&N 8037, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, HO
G.t. A.
I love the sd40-2 and I ran what seems like a million of them when we were Conrail. We ran several trains over CSX and I used to see these Seaboard units enough that they "grew" on me. I decided to get one snd it looked so good that I bought a 2nd. My layout isn't even near completion so I can only test run things along 2 wall lengths..bare with me
BLI 6784 EMD SD40-2, Family Lines System, L&N 8037, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, HO
Customer video review of WalthersProto 920-41155 EMD SD45 - LokSound 5 Sound & DCC -- Norfolk & Western #1758, HO
G.t. A.
Bought 3 BLI sd45s with different intentions in mind. This unit will be paired with a Southern unit (occasional NS as well) to fill out that section of the layout. Being an admirer of the WM coincides also as NW were constantly seen in WM consists. My layout is under construction and nowhere near any sort of completion so pay no attention to the scenery
WalthersProto 920-41155 EMD SD45 - LokSound 5 Sound & DCC -- Norfolk & Western #1758, HO
Customer photo review of BLI 7421 ARA 70-Ton Quad Hopper, B&O W2b, 40s/50s w/ Capital Dome, 4-pack B, N Scale
Tim L.
These hoppers look absolutely fantastic. The detail and graphics are beautiful. There may not be a specific B&O prototype for these, but that doesn't matter to me. I model B&O, C&O, Chessie System 1940's to the 1970's, and I think they fit in very well. The wheels are all within tolerance, the couplers are all to correct height, and operate well. They weigh about 1 ounce (according to my old "manual" scale), are heavier than most of my other hoppers, which will mean better operation. Great doin...
BLI 7421 ARA 70-Ton Quad Hopper, B&O W2b, 40s/50s w/ Capital Dome, 4-pack B, N Scale
Customer photo review of Athearn N FP45, SF/Red & Silver/Small Lettering #108
David C.
Beautiful Engine!! Wonderful Detail and Paint. Runs perfect with my Kato's. I added an A/C Unit to it and did some fine(r) detail work to it.. Very pleased!!
Athearn N FP45, SF/Red & Silver/Small Lettering #108
Customer photo review of Athearn ATHG65181 HO GP40-2L w/DCC & Sound, CN #9433
Joseph B.
I picked this one up to pair up with the one I already own, as I was impressed enough with it to grab another. Lots of great detail, runs and sounds great, and at a very good price through this site! Highly recommended.
Athearn ATHG65181 HO GP40-2L w/DCC & Sound, CN #9433
Customer photo review of Athearn RND06811 HO 40' Wood Reefer, UTRX (4)
Derek F.
Nice 40' wood refrigerated cars from Athearn. I like that these come in a 4-pack. I bought both packs, for a total of 8 cars all with individual numbers. They'll look great being hauled around the layout behind some steam. Nice details, free-rolling trucks and wheels, good couplers. Going to weather up the trucks and wheels, and maybe some pan pastels on the cars themselves and they'll be ready to go.
Athearn RND06811 HO 40’ Wood Reefer, UTRX (4)
Customer photo review of BLI 6700 PRR E6 4-4-2, #460, 1927 Lindberg Special, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, Smoke, HO Scale
Ronald D.
Beautiful train. Love the attention to detail. An outstanding representation to the real thing down to the driver details. BLI is an outstanding company known for their museum quality products. Train runs great and looks good on the layout. Sound is great. New sounds so it's not like the paragon 3 typical sounds. Factory Direct Hobbies service is top notch and outstanding. Customer service is excellent. I am extremely satisfied with my purchase and able to do business with them. I will continue...
BLI 6700 PRR E6 4-4-2, #460, 1927 Lindberg Special, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, Smoke, HO Scale
Customer photo review of BLI 7245 T&P 2-10-4, #610, American Freedom Train, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, HO
Paul V.
Beautiful Locomotive. Great detail. I bought the Freedom Train Version because I actually watched the real 610 being restored in '75 at the Ft. Worth Texas Stockyards for use on the '76 Freedom Train Run. The T&P 610 still lives on at the Texas State RR in Palestine Texas. I purchased it for nostalgia only because my DCC HO trackage is too compact for a locomotive of this size.
BLI 7245 T&P 2-10-4, #610, American Freedom Train, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, HO
Customer video review of BLI 7231 UP Big Boy #4012, 1941, As-Delivered Aftercooler, 25-C-100 Coal Tender, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, Smoke, N
Frank W.
Factory Direct is great I have been a customer in the past and will be in the future. The BLI Big Boy is a great addition to my collection and right now is doing time under the tree. Just wish they were more accessible for questions
BLI 7231 UP Big Boy #4012, 1941, As-Delivered Aftercooler, 25-C-100 Coal Tender, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, Smoke, N
Customer video review of WalthersMainline 910-30012 85' Budd Large-Window Coach - Ready to Run -- Southern Railway (silver), HO
Chris H.
The walthers coach's go quite well with my Rapido E-8's, also from Factory Direct Hobbies. Very good quality cars with superb paint and lettering and very nice, well tracking trucks. Extremely pleased with not only the cars and locos, but also with the top quality customer service I receive from Factory Direct Hobbies.
WalthersMainline 910-30012 85’ Budd Large-Window Coach - Ready to Run -- Southern Railway (silver), HO
Customer photo review of Athearn ATHG71825 HO Genesis GP38-2 w/DCC & Sound, MKT #320
Crawford B.
My reason for giving such a high review is not so much that the locomotive works well and has all the bells, whistles and so forth as my other DCC locomotives, but it's personal. My grandfather was a U.S Postman on the MKT line out of Denison, Texas in the 1930s-early 60s, one of the best jobs, along with pullman porter, that a black man could have during that time. I remember meeting him at the Denison station as the MKT steam locomotive and its cars pulled in. It was then that my love for tra...
Athearn ATHG71825 HO Genesis GP38-2 w/DCC & Sound, MKT #320
Customer video review of BLI 7360 Union Pacific 4-8-4, Class FEF-3 #844, Black & Graphite, 1989 - 2013 Excursion w/ Mars Light, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, Smoke, HO
Richard M.
The 844 is everything I expected. The look of this Locomotive is unmistakable and all of the effects are impressIve. From the highly detailed lighting to the twin smoking stacks this is an amazing model. The sound package is excellent and that whistle is outstanding! Just like my other BLI Locomotives, The 844 has no problems in pulling consists of 40 or more cars. Really enjoy showing this beautiful FEF off at my Train Club!
BLI 7360 Union Pacific 4-8-4, Class FEF-3 #844, Black & Graphite, 1989 - 2013 Excursion w/ Mars Light, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, Smoke, HO
Customer photo review of Rapido 19511 HO Scale F59PH - Metra #98 (DCC/Sound)
Robert S.
The Rapido Metra F59PH I purchased from Factory Direct Hobbies is awesome! Great sound and many lighting effects make this a realistic locomotive that goes great with my Metra Kato coaches and cab car. The paint is very crisp and there are many fine details that just enhance this locomotive, way to go Rapido!!!
Rapido 19511 HO Scale F59PH - Metra #98 (DCC/Sound)
Customer photo review of BLI 6531 NYC 80' Passenger Coach, Two-tone Gray, 2-pack B, N (Fantasy Paint Scheme)
James M.
Well detailed, great looking P-70s in NYC fantasy scheme from BLI. Both shades of gray, however, are somewhat darker than those on MTL heavyweights that make up the bulk of my NYC standard fleet, but they do blend in rather well and the factory lighting, while very bright, is a plus. Wish, though, that BLI would include an on/off switch (magnetic reed?) for the lighting.
BLI 6531 NYC 80’ Passenger Coach, Two-tone Gray, 2-pack B, N (Fantasy Paint Scheme)
Customer video review of BLI 6677 EMD F7 A/B Set Set, NP 6008A/6008B, Pine Tree Scheme, A-unit Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, Unpowered B, HO
Robert M.
I just purchased an F7 A to complete my F7 A-B-B-A set. I love them all, and can’t wait to consist the set. For now they’re in my display case for me to enjoy. Factory Direct is the best. Thanks Joe!!
BLI 6677 EMD F7 A/B Set Set, NP 6008A/6008B, Pine Tree Scheme, A-unit Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, Unpowered B, HO
Customer video review of Athearn HO G2 SD70ACe w/DCC & Sound, UP/MP/Heritage #1984
Derek F.
I've always loved the original MKT line so I was excited to get this UP Heritage model from Athearn. It's an excellent model. There is a bit of light bleed from the cab (when looking from above the cab). Otherwise I am very pleased with this locomotive. Sound is great and movement is excellent. Quite strong and fairly heavy. I look forward to the DRGW model if they release once of those in coming years. Well done Athearn.
Athearn HO G2 SD70ACe w/DCC & Sound, UP/MP/Heritage #1984
Customer photo review of BLI 6948 Light Pacific 4-6-2, NYC 6467, "Battleship Gray", Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, N
Geoff L.
Very smooth running loco - it didn't disappoint. This is my third Pacific - Liked the first two so much, couldn't resist the battleship grey. Would be good if the sound wasn't factory set so load. If you get a few of these running together it doesn't take long for the wife to complain. Would save me time having to make the inevitable adjustment.
BLI 6948 Light Pacific 4-6-2, NYC 6467, "Battleship Gray", Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, N
Customer photo review of Bachmann BAC23303 GE P42 Genesis - 3-Rail w/True Blast Plus Prime Mover, Horn & Bell - Williams -- Connecticut Dept. of Transportation #228 (New Haven, red, white, black), O Scale
Frank C.
The package arrived on time, new in box and we'll packaged and protected from weather. Factory Direct Hobbies is a very professional company. I personally love Williams products since they are well made and Williams answers the phone with US customer service. I love the GE Genesis in the New Haven paint. Thank you Factory Direct Hobbies.
Bachmann BAC23303 GE P42 Genesis - 3-Rail w/True Blast Plus Prime Mover, Horn & Bell - Williams -- Connecticut Dept. of Transportation #228 (New Haven, red, white, black), O Scale
Customer photo review of BLI 7057 UP Big Boy #4014, "The Big Boy Tour" Excursion, Standard Finish, Challenger Excursion Tender, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, Smoke, HO Scale
Dan B.
As always another wonderfull model from BLI. Besides it 's already known properties I want to praise the packaging as very reliable and sturdy, having the loco flown by a friend to me in Romania. As for the functions and detail I think it's a highlight of my collection keeping it's head with Brass limited series models. I can't wait to get my Blue Goose....Thank you FDT .... and regards from Romania
BLI 7057 UP Big Boy #4014, "The Big Boy Tour" Excursion, Standard Finish, Challenger Excursion Tender, Paragon4 Sound/DC/DCC, Smoke, HO Scale
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