Rail Tales

Incredibly helpful and knowledgeable staff that clearly love what they do. showed up just before close and was still taken around the store to see the best materials for Gundam and given detailed explanations on anything I asked. Never felt like a burden despite asking a lot of dumb questions so soon before closing. Possibly the best hobby store I've ever had the pleasure to shop in. Couldn't possibly recommend it enough

I just went here for the first time, and I was pleasantly surprised. I I heard some inconsistent things about this place, but from my experience they were all wrong. I thought the employees were very friendly and knowledgeable, but the owner (?) was blunt which could come off as rude to some. I thought they had a great selection of all different types of model kits, and it was much cheaper than I thought it would be. Like, I got two pretty beefy Gundam for less than $30. Also, there were some friendly regulars there that were nice to talk to. I heard that they were utilitarian about masks and that sort of thing, but I didn't wear one and none of the employees were wearing any and no one said anything (no proof of vaccination or temperature or anything like that either). Overall I recommend for the crafty folks!

Super! Professional caring staff. If it exists, Rail Tales will get it for you. Excellent prices. All in all, a top positive experience. I will go back

This shop is a tucked away gem. Up-to-date inventory, tools and knowledgeable staff. I walked away with the Takom M1070 gun truck and several Master Box figure sets. Looked like there was plenty of scale train, Gundam and aviation stuff from which to choose. I'm happy to patronize a solid local operation when my travels bring me again to Charlottesville!

Bret and his Rail Tales team are absolutely remarkable! Can't exaggerate their expertise, professionalism and courteous service. I have found it more than worth the about two-hour drive from my home in Williamsburg. Sincerely, Arch

It's always great to stop by and see what's there. We never seem to leave empty-handed.

These dudes. Ok listen. Look and listen! Are you listening? These dudes are the best. Whatever your hobby need they'll put you straight. They helped me craft a beautiful waterfall for a Warhammer maw Krusha I was working on. They're great!

You can tell the owner and staff really are passionate about what they are doing. Went in looking for something for my son and they were super helpful. My only complaint is the prices seem high to me, but I don't have much to compare it to other than online stores.

Great store HO N other scales like Z and O Marklin and Kato authorized dealer also many smaller know accessory makers kit like Rix. Staff knowledgeable to assist the beginner at any any age. Check out the Marklin HO sets for younger railroaders!

I love the attention that I receive without over doing it. Given great advise from owner about how to steps from airbrushing to weathering my models. Sending my wife tomorrow to pick up 105 Badger airbrush. Slightly cheaper online but Rail Tails service is absolutely worth the extra few bucks. These guys seem to be amongst the best in the business and definitely the best in area. Looking forward to next visit. 5 stars!

I was in town visiting family and I was told this was a good place to find Gundam models. I did find some good models, but even better customer service. The staff was friendly and answered questions I had about model paints and airbrushing. I even got a demo on "weathering" techniques. Will visit again when I come back to visit.

Drove an hour specifically for Gunpla and was blown away by the selection and price, especially considering how tough it is lately to find affordable Bandai kits locally. Tons of Vallejo products as well (my preferred paint), although they also carry plenty of stuff from Mr. Hobby, Tamiya, etc. Very well-stocked and very friendly and 100% worth the trip.

Wonderful local business that is incredibly passionate about model railroads. Incredible service (like stepping back in time) paired with the most up to date selection trains from all over the world. Worth the visit from afar.

One of those exceedingly rare things, a local hobby shop. They are mostly trains but also carries plastic kits, model rockets and lots of supplies. Worth the stop if you are in the area. The staff are knowledgable about Trains and Scale Models.

A nice little store that sells mainly trains and models, as well as accessories such as paints, rails, etc. Also has a small stock of games as well. The location is a little hard to find, and the store is a bit small, but is worth going to if you are into plastic models and trains.

Great place!! Very good selection of models and hobbies. Special ordered a kit for me and called as soon as it arrived. Discount for cash!

Had multiple problems with an old Lionel engine. On very short notice, the employees diagnosed problems, cleaned and repaired while I waited. Learned a lot from them that should help me in the future. Very professional and serious group!

I came all the way down from Richmond, They are so helpful, Just the other day I had a problem with the setup on one of my controllers and they walked me through it and we got it working. I support them as much as I can I don't buy anything online or at other hobby shops,

Very helpful and informative. Will return every time I'm in town. If they can order it for you they will. A good hobby shop is a rare thing these days. Cherish every single 1.

Amazing paint selection! Amazing staff! They are very kind and knowledgeable.