jhz563 posted:Mason,
Welcome to the OGR forum. As you can see there are many very helpful folks on this site that enjoy encouraging younger members of the hobby. A few things come to mind after reading the posts above.
1. If you can make it to Scranton, you are within striking distance of Allentown. Look up the "First Frost Meet." Its a large meet in the Allentown area that has a dedicated following on the forum.
2. There is nothing wrong with collapsible tables. Carpentry is a big part of the hobby, but at your age I wouldn't worry about it. Just make sure they are level. If you don't have access to a level, buy a small one next time you tag along to Walmart or a hardware store.
3. Noise. In an old house noise travels. If you can get some heavy felt or some outdoor carpet and put it on the tables before the track it really help reduce the roar. This should engender a little extra goodwill between you and the rest of the family
4. Funding is tough. At your age I shoveled a lot of snow and cut a lot of grass to buy trains. I still have them all and enjoy running them next to my larger equipment. In time you will too.
Good luck and I will continue to check in on your posts.
Jhz
A video of the inside of the loco
