While browsing the Trains online store I discovered that a number of
Model Railroader back issues are on sale. I don't know if it's a limited time thing or a clearance. The back issues range from the current 2024 back to 11 of 12 2011 issues. Current issues are still $7.99, but they get cheaper as you go back. The 2011 issues are $1.80 each. Others are $2.40 apiece.
If digital isn't your thing and you want hardcopy, then those prices aren't bad.
https://shop.trains.com/collections/back-issues/Back-Issues?sort_by=created-descending&filter.p.m.custom.hobby=Model+TrainsFurther exploration reveals the same deals for
Trains and other magazines.