Bigger Model Trains Easier to Track Down

About 12 years ago, a new trendy size of model railroading train swept the country. These large-size models, commonly called “G-scale” or “garden railroad trains,” were primarily made in Europe and were high in both quality and price.

A less expensive source at that time was a subsidiary of an aircraft company (owner Al Krameris is a train buff) called San-Val Discount.

Today, the G-scale market has turned around 180 degrees. Although the European companies continue to produce fine products, it is the American manufacturers that supply the market with the highest quality model trains.

There is an immense selection available to the G-scale enthusiast at a far more wallet-friendly price. Where the European manufacturer once produced a locomotive that San-Val priced at $600 (retail was $1,000), the American-made trains have a diesel locomotive with more power and details--tagged here at $200 (retail $350).

But it’s not just the G-scale that San-Val carries.

It also has O-scale or HO trains at discounted prices. I encourage you to visit this store and have some fun watching the 10 model trains set up and running . . . sometimes all at once.

The basics and all the trimmings are here for the kid in all of us, and San-Val guarantees the lowest prices in the state.

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SAN-VAL DISCOUNT, 7456 Valjean Ave., Van Nuys, (818) 786-8274. Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays (only between Thanksgiving and Christmas).

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Weekend Super Sale: Angel’s Custom Mattress has a special going on Maxwell adjustable electric beds with dual motors, dual massage, wireless remote and, of course, Angel’s firm or extra-firm mattresses. Ordinarily, Angel’s price on the twin that retails for $1,499 is $1,099, but from now until Christmas, it’s $849. On the queen size (retail $2,200), the special price is $1,049.

Angel’s is at 4147 Redondo Beach Blvd., Lawndale. (310) 793-1799.