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This along with Laser-Art by Branchline Trains becoming unavailable really takes the wind out of my sails for discovering all kinds of different architectural styles that can be readily built in N.
The Branchline Laser-Art kits were the antithesis of AMB Laser-Kits. Terrible design, execution, and fitment in N scale.
Looking at the big picture I really don't think there are *THAT* many model railroaders who own and use laser cutters, or skills needed to produce viable projects. Same goes for 3D printers Actually I think more modelers own 3D printers than laser cutters. I suspect that these kits were still selling well - it is just that owners aged and wanted to retire (or passed away). Not sure why the business aren't passed or sold to others. Maybe nobody wants to run a business.
A viable small format laser cutter is about $400.One more closely resembling a commercial machine, but still a Chinese knock-off in the 12" x 20" work area range is about $1200-$1500. They work well enough, I have one, but I'm not sure if it would last for long production runs. However, you can pretty easily replace the laser (which would be the first failing point of the machine), sot it's not a bad investment.Coupled with a few 3D printers, a motivated person with some entrepreneurial spirit, could make a go of it.The skills to operate a laser aren't terribly more involved than a 3D printer and most especially a 3D router.Jeff
It is not just the cost of the machine or how to operate it. It's the actual design of the items you want to print that's the hindrance for many modelers. The hobby seems to be heading to more modelers not wanting to do anything more than buy super-detailed ready-to run loco and rolling stock models, and while they are still willing to put together some structure kits, the will likely not want the extra hassle to learning 2D drawing, and then get and utilize a laser cutter. Let's face it - you and many of TRW members who are willing to get into more advance modeling are exception to the rule. Probably 90% of model railroaders are nothing like the here. I have the skills to design artwork for laser cut structures, but I have so many other projects that I'm not interested in diving into it. I rather buy a good kit someone else produced (liek AMB).Then even if someone dives into design, how good will their models will be? Like AMB's or Branchline kits? As I see it, I'm just being realistic (not simply negative).
You're not wrong and I don't think you're being negative Peteski... From a topic of another recent discussion, the hobby is not dying so much as it's evolving. I'm in the narrow gauge world, in an obscure scale/gauge combo, so it's only natural that I gravitate to a nearly wholly DIY mindset/skillset. It's also a natural fit due to ~30yrs in the engineering/manufacturing field. I've acquired most of the skills I need to produce most of what I want (though I still wish I could get custom gear stock from NWSL, WTF??!!).As a matter of fact... Looking to get into 3D printed resin to cast brass production in the near future. Have some 3D printed resin locomotive parts that I'd really like in brass instead. Thanks to YouTube and a recent small inheritance, it's within reach.Jeff
I agree with your assessment of the hobby. There is also nothing wrong with being in the minority (of the modelers with your wide range of skills). Actually it a huge bonus to be able to design and make what you want. Sounds like you are looking into lost-wax brass casting. That yields some really fine and sturdy parts. IIRC, our Bob Gilmore has done some of that (before the advent of 3-D printing the wax parts).
Yeah, in this case "lost resin" instead of wax (well, there is some wax involved)...
And from what I hear from friends and others, when you retire you might not have as much extra hobby time as you were hoping for. I have few more years to get there myself.
True... There's always a significant amount of time spent working around the house and occupying your wife so she doesn't get bored! I've heard from a few retired modelers that have told me that other than home chores and travel, another major time hog is placating their wives so they don't complain constantly about being "hobby widows". My father in law is one of them... But in his case, my mother in law would still be a pain in the a$$ if he was doing anything other than entertaining her!There's also visiting the grandchildren, but we're at least 5yrs away from that, if not more. Jeff
The wife as a burden to be placated is definitely something I can't relate to. As recent empty-nesters, we've been really enjoying our time together. Dating again and traveling, skiing, camping, hiking... I would much rather spend time with my amazing wife than playing with trains. Thankfully, she doesn't make me choose because she also understands how important this hobby is to me. And while it's not her thing, she enjoys seeing me accomplish things in the hobby. She has her own hobbies too. But lately, our mutual hobby has been each other...
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Topic: American Model Builders (laserkit.com) Is Shutting Down (Read 3906 times)
