All About Model Train Scales
Choosing your scale is probably the most important decision you will make as a model train enthusiast. The scale represents the ratio of the model train and scenery elements to a real life train and scenery elements. There are six main scales to select from when making this decision:
- Z scale – 1:220 ratio
- N scale – 1:160 ratio
- HO scale – 1:87 ratio
- S scale – 1:64 ratio
- O Scale – 1:48 ratio
- G Scale – 1:22 ratio
To choose your scale, you should consider the following three factors:
1) How much space do you have for your benchwork? For small spaces (like apartments), the N scale may be best. The HO scale may also work, as long as you have enough space for at least an 8 by 4 bench-work layout.
2) How much selection do you want when choosing trains and scenery elements? The “HO” scale is probably the most popular train scale used today, and because of this there is a wide variety of scenery and trains to choose from and the competition keeps the prices fairly affordable. You may find the selection for the very large and small sizes a bit more limited. You also are more likely to find used model railroad and scenery elements for HO and N sizes for sale on eBay and in classified ads, if that is an important consideration for you.
3) Will the model train be used primarily indoors or outdoors? If you want to have your trains outdoors, you should select the G scale, as the trains and scenery elements will generally be made for outdoor use and be suitable for use in nearly all weather conditions.
Once you have selected the model train scale you are going to use for your layout, you will find there variety of clubs, shows and publications dedicated to the model you have chosen. You will find an instant community of support for that scale, whose enthusiasts are all certain their scale is the best!
For even more information and great tips on how to select your model train scale and then build beautiful model railroad layouts, checkout my reviews of the most popular model train guides.
