Blog Archives

Articles spanning my hobbies, interests, opinions and more...

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Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Wishing You a Happy New Year, Looking Ahead to an Exciting 2026

As we welcome 2026, I want to wish all my readers a Happy New Year, reflect on the past year’s highlights, thank my members for their support, and share excitement for what lies ahead.

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Researching the Tuscola & Saginaw Bay Railway

Join me on a journey through the Tuscola & Saginaw Bay Railway. From the black-and-yellow trains that captivated me as a teen to the decades-later deep dive into its history, people, operations, and lasting impact that a small Michigan railroad left on me as a avid model railroader.

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Michigan Railroad History, Overview and Commentary

Michigan’s railroad history is more than a collection of dates and milestones. This companion post explores the story behind the article "A Timeline to Michigan Railroad History" from 1825-2014 and how railroads shaped the state’s growth, declined, adapted, and continue to play a vital role in Michigan today.

Estimated reading time: 15 minutes

Designing Model Railroad Benchwork With Custom Storage

Learn how I used CAD software to design my model railroad benchwork with lots of customized storage. This in depth article details my methodology and process of maximizing and effectively utilizing space. View finalized drawings along with cut lists, materials lists and more...

Estimated reading time: 11 minutes

Model Railroad Planning, My Road Map For Success!

Let me share with you the essential ground rules I established for myself in order to build a successful model railroad layout. Learn what the rules are, how they came to be and to put them to good use.

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

How To Download FREE and LEGAL Motorola CPS

Learn how to download FREE and LEGAL Motorola CPS for your Motorola ASTRO®, APX, and MotoTRBO® two-way radios. Use my Motorola Customer Programming Software download instructions to get access to the latest software .

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Want To Learn How To Use Motorola ASTRO 25 CPS?

Want to learn how to use Motorola ASTRO 25 CPS? Watch the Beginner's Guide To Motorola ASTRO 25 CPS Video Series today!

Estimated reading time: 10 minutes

Live Steam, An Introduction To The Hobby Of Trains

What is live steam railroading? An introduction to the hobby that involves the building and operation of functional, miniature replicas of steam-locomotives powered using real steam generated by heating water.

Estimated reading time: 11 minutes

8 Considerations for Do-It-Yourself or Hire a Contractor?

Here's 8 considerations for Do-It-Yourself or Hiring a Contractor. Let me help you to make the right home remodeling choice for your project.

Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

Garden Railroading, An Introduction To The Hobby Of Trains

Do you like gardening? Do you like trains? Combine the two with my comprehensive overview of a unique hobby. I’ll explain its historical roots, essential components, design considerations and more...

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Who Is Amateur Radio Operator WA8IQO?

This article discuss who is Amateur Radio operator WA8IQO? I break down the call sign history along with the original and current holders.

Estimated reading time: 14 minutes

Model Railroading, An Introduction To The Hobby Of Trains

Model railroading is a captivating and dynamic hobby. An introduction to model railroading, its history, activities, celebrity enthusiasts, the cost involved and how you can get started in the World's Greatest Hobby!

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

A Jack Of All Trades, The Value In Being A Master Of None

Discover the benefits of being a jack of all trades. Learn how my polymath skills and self-reliance save me money on do-it-yourself projects.

Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

What Is Ham Radio? An Introduction To Amateur Radio

An introduction to the Amateur Radio Hobby and your exclusive guide to the history, activities, clubs, community service and how you can get started in Ham Radio today!

Estimated reading time: 9 minutes

Railfanning, An Introduction To The Hobby Of Trains

Have you ever asked what is a railfan? I'll provide you with an in-depth introduction to the world of railfanning. We'll explore its history, diverse individuals and activities that define this unique hobby.

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Brad Hazel – Welcome to My Blog About DIY Projects, Amateur Radio, Trains & More

I’m Brad Hazel, and Welcome to BradHazel.com, a personal website and blog where I share articles on DIY Projects, Amateur Radio experiences, Trains & Model Railroad projects, history resources and more...