September 16, 2025 - M.T.H. Electric Trains will be releasing the Premier O Scale Steel Caboose in SEVEN different roadnames next Spring. Each item will be limited in production, available in two car numbers, and expected to begin shipping to M.T.H. Authorized Retailers in April 2026.
Check out each of the offerings in the scrolling list at the bottom of the page.
PROTOTYPE HISTORY
The offset steel caboose, with its distinctive off-center cupola, was born out of necessity and innovation. As railroads transitioned from wood to all-steel construction in the mid-20th century, cabooses needed to keep up. The traditional cupola, centered on the car roof, was often too low for the crew to see over the taller freight cars of the era.
Engineers at major railroads like the Baltimore & Ohio (B&O) solved this problem by shifting the cupola to one side of the car. This clever design provided the crew with a clear, unobstructed view of the entire train, improving safety and operational efficiency. The offset steel caboose became a common sight across the American rail network for decades, a testament to practical design and the relentless evolution of the railroad industry.
MTH Premier O Scale freight cars are the perfect complement to any manufacturer’s scale proportioned O Gauge locomotives. Whether you prefer to purchase cars separately or assemble a unit train, MTH Premier Rolling Stock has the cars for you in a variety of car types and paint schemes.
Virtually every sturdy car is offered in two car numbers which makes it even easier than ever to combine them into a multi-car consist. Many of MTH’s Premier Rolling Stock offerings can also operate on the tightest O Gauge curves giving them even more added versatility to your layout.
Check out each of the offerings in the scrolling list at the bottom of the page.
