All about the community of model railroading and rail enthusiasm
COWCATCHER MAGAZINE
Cowcatcher Complete Sets
From the 2023 set, the May/June issue features Mike Armstrong’s Rock Island HO model railroad. The issue also takes an inside look at how Ross Custom Switches has become a premier O-gauge track builder.BUY THIS ISSUE ONLY
Pay by credit card or PayPal and start shopping here! Orders will be shipped USPS Priority Mail within 5-7 business days. Price includes shipping in U.S. (International orders please email at cowcatcher@verizon.net for rate).
Prior to 2011, the magazine was known as Cowcatcher Round Up.
2004 Cowcatcher Round Up
SOLD OUT
2005 Cowcatcher Round Up $14.95
2006 Cowcatcher Round Up
SOLD OUT (some single issues available)
2007 Cowcatcher Round Up $14.95
2008 Cowcatcher Round Up $14.95
2009 Cowcatcher Round Up $14.95
2010 Cowcatcher Round Up $14.95
2011 Cowcatcher Magazine $24.95
2012 Cowcatcher Magazine $24.95
2013 Cowcatcher Magazine $24.95
SOLD OUT! Some individual issues of this set may be available HERE
2015 Cowcatcher Magazine $24.95
2016 Cowcatcher Magazine
SOLD OUT! Some individual issues of this set may be available HERE
2025 Cowcatcher Magazine $29.95
Current Issue: May/June2026
$6.95 (U.S. Orders Only)
O Triad
The O-scale Reader & Caney Creek, the Virginian Railway and the Cheapskate & Ohio are distinctly different. Well-known among Southwest O-scalers, the protolance 2-rail Virginian is spectacularly scenicked and spans over 1,200 square feet. Same with the freelance Cheapskate & Ohio, still mostly under construction. It showcases fine-scale 2-rail modeling integrated with hi-rail AC toy trains. The around-the-walls Reader & Caney Creek is proof that 2-rail doesn’t require a ballroom. While they share a size more associated with nostalgia and collecting than fine-scale model railroading, the layouts embody a very individual spirit. And the goal isn't necessarily running trains.
Craftsman Courtyard
Laser-cut craftsman kit makers on the East Coast are working together to change the dynamic of a model railroad segment traditionally reserved for elite modelers because of its reputation for complex kits requiring extensive handwork. Through affordable, easy-to-assemble wood kits, the companies are attracting the experienced and beginners alike.
Mail on the Rails
For a century, “these couriers” included the railroads and what was known for most if its life as the Railway Mail Service. In 1950 more than 14,000 clerks toiled away sorting mail in Railway Post Offices on 3,000 moving trains.
Plus
The Northeast Outdoor Railway Festival is adding a new touch by creating a citywide large-scale experience in Palmer, MA; OminTRAX buys three Arkansas short lines to expand into a new growing market; a recent release of a Denver & Rio Grande Western caboose fills a niche with classic paint; InterMountain Railway's HO 5161 Trinity hoppers feature BNSF's Heritage roads; and an ex-Canadian National Railway F7A finds a home. And more!
