3D Print Model Railroad Projects - A Deep Dive Review

by David Bradt (Author) Tom Ward (Author)

Updated at: 28/01/2025

David Bradt and Tom Ward's "3D Print Model Railroad Projects" is the ultimate guide for model railroaders seeking to bridge the gap between imagination and reality. Tired of limitations imposed by commercially available parts? This book offers a wealth of 3D printing projects, ranging from simple to incredibly complex, to customize your railroad. Learn to create unique buildings, intricate railroad cars, detailed accessories, and even electronic enclosures. Beyond the projects themselves, the authors share valuable insights gleaned from their own experiences, covering CAD software, slicer programs, and troubleshooting common challenges. Expand your model railroading horizons with this practical and inspiring guide.

3.3 / 3 ratings

Review 3D Print Model Railroad Projects

Hey folks! Let me share my thoughts on "3D Print Model Railroad Projects" by David Bradt and Tom Ward. As someone who owns several of the authors' other books, I was pretty excited to dive into this one, and overall, I wasn't disappointed. It's a fantastic addition to their existing work, really filling in some gaps and clarifying things that can often be a bit murky in the world of 3D printing for model railroads.

One thing I particularly appreciated was the book's structure. It's incredibly well-organized, guiding you through projects of varying complexity. Whether you're a complete beginner just getting started with 3D printing or a seasoned technologist looking to expand your skills, there's something here for you. I found this especially helpful, as I consider myself fairly tech-savvy, but I'm still pretty new to the world of 3D printing. This book has been instrumental in giving me a much deeper understanding of this exciting technology.

The authors do a great job of walking you through the process, explaining not only what to do, but also why you're doing it. They delve into the nitty-gritty details, covering everything from CAD software to slicer programs. This level of detail is what really sets this book apart. Many books simply present the finished product, but Bradt and Ward go the extra mile, explaining the thought processes and problem-solving involved in bringing these projects to life. They openly share their successes and, just as importantly, their failures, providing invaluable lessons learned along the way. This honest approach makes the learning process much more relatable and less intimidating.

The range of projects included is also a significant strength. From relatively simple building additions to intricate railroad cars and even electronic enclosures, the book explores the diverse possibilities of 3D printing in model railroading. The variety keeps things interesting and shows just how versatile this technology can be in addressing the unique needs of modelers. You'll find projects that challenge different skill levels, allowing you to gradually build your confidence and expertise. It's a fantastic resource for expanding your creative horizons and pushing the boundaries of what's possible.

However, I must acknowledge that I've seen some contrasting opinions online. Some reviewers found the book lacking, criticizing its focus on the authors' experiences rather than providing readily-reproducible projects. It's true that the book isn't a step-by-step instruction manual in the strictest sense; it's more of a comprehensive guide that explores the possibilities and challenges of using 3D printing in this context. It focuses on teaching you the thinking behind the process, which is invaluable in problem-solving your own unique model railroad needs. So, if you're looking for a simple, easily-followed recipe book, this might not be the perfect fit. But if you're ready to dive deeper, to understand the nuances and limitations of the technology and apply that knowledge to your own projects, then "3D Print Model Railroad Projects" is an excellent investment.