Model Trains are often synonymous with the terms, model railroading; which is a hobby regarding rail transport systems that are modeled to a reduced scale.
At the present time “HO” (1:87) scale is the without doubt the most popular model railroad scale; as a result of such popularity, manufacturers have responded and are constantly creating a huge amount of accessories and rolling stock for HO scale models. This popularity has developed because HO scale is considered by most RR enthusiasts to be just the right size; it allows most people to appreciate the detail, the incredibly good running performance, and the comparative low price to other scale models. Children too, will find it easier to operate and control the bigger scales, beginning with HO scale and above.
You should also be aware that it is rather difficult to create an authentic looking layout in a large scale. For this reason and more, HO scale has become very popular because it is considered a “middle-of-the-road” scale and is easier to construct realistic displays.
Keep in mind that HO scale (1:87) with a continuous loop model railroad system will need at least a 3.5 foot x 4 foot table. So a layout space of 6 feet x 4 feet will be enough to design an interesting HO scale layout with a continuous loop. If you don’t have that much room available, then you might consider an “N” (1: 160) scale layout which can be built in less than 1/3 of the area required by a similar HO scale model train layout but obviously much smaller. There is even a smaller scale: “Z” (1: 220) and there’s the “S” Scale (1: 64). If the opposite is the case in hand (more space than you will ever use) then you should probably think about an “O” scale which is (1:48 in the US or 1:43 in the UK
If you’re not confused or frustrated yet regarding model train scales, then have a look at “G” scale model train below. It has been argued that this scale is the best all around train size for beginners and experts alike. (I still like the HO scale versions best.)
These G model trains are bigger than most, at a 1:22 scale, that’s one twenty-second the size of a real train. The most obvious benefit of a G scale model is that they are so easy to set up, since the tracks are larger and therefore easier to handle. But, with all things considered, because of the size, it takes up a lot of room; therefore even a very simple layout can fill up a large dining room table. G scale model trains are large; actually big enough to setup outdoors and will blend in quite well in flower garden settings or with the landscaping in general.
If you require visual aid like me, then this simple image may assist with regard to the model train scales referenced above:
Model Trains / model railroading are not only terms that are synonymous to each other but for some time now they have been first and foremost when the topic of “Man Toys” are mentioned. A man toy in the form of a model train can be purchased by all (not just men) in most hobby stores… from HO scale models trains to scaled model scenery.
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