Wooden train tracks - build or buy?

[Alex Franke]

I ran across this site and got to wondering if I should be building these train tracks instead of buying them...

Anyone have an opinion on this?

[Uncle Cracker]

Seems easy enough, although the amount of track you are going to need is probably going to determine whether it's worth the effort to build the jigs and do the setups.

[cabinetman]

Here is an interesting router bit set up for train tracks.
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[pierhogunn]

yes if you

1. have a good 1/2" collet router
2. a router table
3. plenty of good clear wood
4. a table saw
5. a drum or spindle sander
6. patience
7. no little ones to play with instead of doing this
8. patience

no if you lack any of the above, look up Mellisa & Doug, they make dirt cheap track that works okay

[ejs1097]

Looks like fun. perhaps I'll get a chance when I have grandchildren, after my little kids have grown and grown. This and all the lincoln logs I want to build but will never get too.

[jking]

I guess it depends on how much track you need & the amount of time you have. I've found there's several things I've bought that I could figure out how to build, but, my son would rather I play with him & a store bought toy than build a toy while he has to play on his own.

[Alex Franke]

Actually this one looks pretty promising...
100 Piece Bulk Wooden Train Track Compatible with Thomas & Friends Wooden Railway System

That's about 50 cents per piece... can't make them for that price, that's for sure.

[LCHIEN]

Actually this one looks pretty promising...
100 Piece Bulk Wooden Train Track Compatible with Thomas & Friends Wooden Railway System

That's about 50 cents per piece... can't make them for that price, that's for sure.

heck, that's cheaper than the router bits required to make them.

Hey, who's going to be playing railroad builder, you or your son?

[Alex Franke]

Hey, who's going to be playing railroad builder, you or your son?

lol -- you got me pretty much figured out. It's for both of us! Oh, the benefits of having a son!