Req 7a — Model Railroading Projects
You must complete exactly 2 of the 8 activities listed below. Read the summaries, then choose the two that best match your interests, skills, and what you have access to.
Your Eight Activities
7a1 — Plan a Layout
Draw a layout of your own model railroad — either one you could actually build, or a dream layout for your home. Your plan must include a point-to-point track or a loop with different routings, plus at least one of these features: turnaround, terminal, yard, or siding.
Best if you: Enjoy design and planning. No building required — this is a drafting and creative exercise.
7a2 — Build a Rolling Stock Kit
Assemble one model railroad car kit or one locomotive kit. This is a hands-on construction project — you’ll read instructions, handle small parts, and produce a finished, ready-to-run (or display) model.
Best if you: Enjoy model assembly, painting, and working with your hands.
Go to Build a Rolling Stock Kit →
7a3 — Scales and Gauges
Name the scale of four popular model railroad gauges. Then identify the scale of four specific model cars or locomotives. This is a knowledge-based activity you can do with catalog research or by examining equipment in a hobby shop or club layout.
Best if you: Like research, facts, and learning the vocabulary of the hobby.
7a4 — Makers and Magazines
Locate the websites of four model railroad manufacturers or magazine publishers. Print (or save) information about their products and services, then discuss what you found with your counselor.
Best if you: Are comfortable doing web research and enjoy discussing what you learn.
7a5 — Structures and Scenery
Build one railroad structure from a kit or from scratch. Paint and weather it, mount it on a layout or diorama, and make the surrounding area scenic. This is a multi-step craft project.
Best if you: Love miniature building, painting, and creating realistic environments.
Go to Structures and Scenery →
7a6 — Build and Run a Layout
Alone or with others, build a complete model railroad or modular layout — including ballast and scenery. Wire the electrical connections and operate a train. Then describe to your counselor what you enjoyed most.
Best if you: Want the full model railroading experience, from benchwork to running trains. Can be done as a group project.
Go to Build and Run a Layout →
7a7 — Switching Contest Skills
Participate in a switching contest on a Timesaver layout and record your time. The Timesaver is a classic puzzle-like track arrangement designed to test your ability to move cars efficiently.
Best if you: Enjoy operational challenges and problem-solving. Usually done through a local club.
Go to Switching Contest Skills →
7a8 — DC and DCC Control
Explain the difference between powering and controlling a model railroad using direct current (DC) versus Digital Command Control (DCC). This is a knowledge and explanation activity — no layout required.
Best if you: Are interested in electronics, technology, and the “how it works” side of the hobby.
How to Choose Your Two
| Activity | Hands-on building | Research / discussion | Needs club access |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7a1 Plan a Layout | — | ✓ | — |
| 7a2 Build a Kit | ✓ | — | — |
| 7a3 Scales & Gauges | — | ✓ | — |
| 7a4 Makers & Magazines | — | ✓ | — |
| 7a5 Structures & Scenery | ✓ | — | — |
| 7a6 Build & Run a Layout | ✓ | — | Helpful |
| 7a7 Switching Contest | ✓ | — | ✓ |
| 7a8 DC and DCC | — | ✓ | — |