The Strength of Atlas Model Trains is HO And N Gauge
The Atlas Railroad Co INC. Produces model railway trains and accessories. The product range is limited to HO and N gauge Model trains, rolling stock and accessories. The product range at first sight seems a bit limited when compared with others but that is not important if the range of HO and N products stand up well to close scrutiny.
Their range of N gauge is very good and as it is concentrated on diesel and diesel electric units it is unpretentious. The overall modelling seems to be accurate and well assembled and It must be said also that they look terrific, well made and the livery is spot-on. The published specifications of Atlas trains are impressive and some of the track specs are outstanding. The exceptional quality of Atlas flexible track makes it a firm favourite with many, many modellers.
At this stage the HO locomotive range appears little thin although of high quality. When modellers find a favourite they tend to be loyal and so it would be nice to see a few steam models in there somewhere. Steam locomotives are missing from the N gauge range as well.
What they do have is a very good range of modern locomotives. Take a look at one of the products on their website and check out the specification of the Atlas; HM GP40-2 PH1 ATLANTA & WEST POINT 733
The quality looks to be good right across the rang and together with the relatively low volume one might expect that prices will be high but actually the most astonishing attribute has to be the price. Atlas products are priced very competitively and this has to be an incentive for the first time modeller.
This is a very good specification of one of their standard products. Modellers will recognise this and those new to the railroading hobby can make comparisons easily enough from the internet or their local hobby shop. The published price for this model is $240 bucks and the spec as stated online if it all works is brilliant. There is no reason to believe they will not be reliable as Atlas locomotives are accurately made which means they will cross onto any other makers layout as is often the case.
Is the narrow product range a bit of a let-down? It has to be said that any manufacturer making products within a broad market and choosing a very specific sector in which to specialise has to be confident of their position. So let