Putting It All Together
From Novices to Enthusiasts, Countyline Hobbies Has Something for Everyone
Writer / Mike Dikos
Photographer / Jubilee Edgell
Theres a new kid in town. Actually, the kid has been around all your life. Whether you wanted to be a fireman, an astronaut or a princess, Countyline Hobbies can help you fulfill those dreams. Conveniently located in downtown Knox, the shop has something for everyone.
If you want to shoot for the moon, the store offers one of the largest selections of model rockets in southern Michigan and northern Indiana. For the beginner looking for that first flight, a variety of rockets are available with ease of assembly in mind. Those rocket scientists who desire a path thats a little more challenging, kits are also available that require sanding, painting and some additional prep work to get your bird aerodynamically ready and off the ground.
Engines, launch pads and other necessary materials are in stock. Manufacturers such as Estes and Custom are well-represented.
Aspiring engineers and conductors should make the store their whistle stop when in town. As an authorized Lionel and Atlas dealer, one can be assured theyre on the right track. The most popular gauges, O, HO, and N, are readily available. From steam to diesel, and boxcar to caboose, engines and rolling stock are there to get your train running. Two important aspects of model railroading, structures and scenery, such as those by Woodland Scenics, are readily available. Several work-in-progress layouts are on display.
To help you get off the ground or onto the dirt track, a wide variety of RC planes and cars are available. From the beginner just starting out to the experienced person looking to upgrade, the shop can help keep your wheels turning or propellor spinning. Brands such as Redcat are well-stocked.
If you have the desire to fly the plane that your grandfather flew in the Great War, or the longing to drive that muscle car that your dad got his license in, then maybe a plastic kit is for you. With more than 200 kits in stock, and categories such as aircraft, cars, ships, military vehicles, big rigs, and fantasy, you can be sure to find a subject to occupy your interest. Supplies such as glues, paints and tools are stocked to help in assembly.
For the future Wright brothers out there, or those looking for a more challenging project, perhaps a wooden aircraft kit is for you. A huge selection of the popular brand Guillows, along with the necessary materials needed for construction, are stocked for the aeronautical engineer within.
If you are into numismatics (coin collecting, to us common folk), supplies and materials are in stock. For those seeking their own buried treasure, a variety of metal detectors are available as well.
There is something about walking into a hobby shop and being able to see and touch. The experience of browsing is something special. Online will never replace the hands-on experience, says Owner Bob Jablonski.
The business fills a void for those who want to look around and find something to enjoy in their free time. If something you prefer isnt on the shelf, just ask and they will special-order it for you. Kids of all ages are welcome.
Countyline Hobbies is located at 3 North Main Street in downtown Knox, and can be reached at 574-540-1123.
