Choosing the Right Model Train Scale
The first decision a model railroader will want to make before buying a model train is "scale". Scale is sometimes referred to as "guage" although the terms actually mean different things. Gauge is typically the distance between the rails of the tracks while scale is the ratio of the train's size in relation to a real-life train.
One of the most popular size scales is HO. HO Scale's ratio is 1:87, which means a real train is 87 times larger. Or, another way to look at it is the model train is 1/87th the size of the real train. Therefore, the larger the second number is, the smaller the train is. This is important since the scale of model train you choose will be determined by the amount of space available to build your layout. Now that you have a basic understanding of scale, here's a listing of the most popular model railroad scales from smallest to largest to help you choose which is right for you.
Z Scale is one of the smallest sizes. These trains have a ratio of 1:220 and are excellent choices for anyone with very limited space. To visualize how small this scale is, a 75-foot real-life locomotive would measure only 4 inches in length as a model. However, as with any size train, you can expand your model railroad layout to fill the entire amount of space you have available.
N Scale is another small scale but slightly larger than Z Scale. At a ratio of 1:160 this is another good choice for building your layout in small spaces. Just because it's another small scale, don't feel you're limited to small spaces. This scale is also ideal for very large layouts with vast amounts of scenery, mountains, tunnels, or a large city scene.
HO Scale is probably the most popular of all model train scales. This size is perfect for almost any space you have available from simple table top layouts to filling every available square foot of your basement. You can find an almost unlimited supply of engines, rolling stock, scenery, buildings, parts and accessories for your HO Train. Another big advantage to HO is the vast range of affordable all-in-one kits for getting started with your first model railroad.
S Scale comes in slightly larger than HO. At a modern day ratio of 1:64, this size train was marketed with three rails by American Flyer and Lionel. However, by the 1950's, Lionel outsold American Flyer almost 2 to 1 and eventually purchased the brand in 1967 after American Flyer's parent company went out of business.
O Scale, at a ratio of 1:48, has been a popular size model train for several decades. Made popular by Lionel, these are the trains often pictured under the christmas tree as an excited child's first train. But, don't let that fool you. The O scale trains have been a favorite of modelers of all ages.
OO Scale, at 1:76.2 is one of the most popular model train scales in the UK. Like it's US counterpart HO scale, OO Scale is available with a large supply of trains, kits and accessories.
G Scale trains are the largest of the current popular scales. At 1:22.5, these trains are typically used in outdoor "garden" layouts to create a backyard railway. These ruggedly built trains are built for outdoors. One advantage of building a railroad with this scale is the ability to use natural outdoor items such as gravel, dirt, plants, twigs, etc. for a real-world effect. Although one of the largest scales available, G Scale trains can also be run indoors if you have enough available space.
So, which one should you choose? Each scale has its own advantages and disadvantages. Your available space should be one of the first considerations in deciding which scale is right for your long-term growth and enjoyment. Then, you're limited only by your imagination and your budget once you've selected the correct scale for your situation. For every scale you will find everything from inexpensive starter sets to expensive and rare collectible trains.
Be sure to check out our online store. You're sure to find a model train to fit your space, budget, and imagination.
