Things You Have Never Known About Model Trains



Posted: Tuesday, September 30, 2008

by
modeltrainpro.com

Have you ever wondered what the terms "scale" and  "gauge"  mean to model trains?  What the letters mean on a model train set?  Which size of model trains is right for you?  In the following paragraphs, we will answer for these questions relating to model trains.  So sit back and enjoy the ride of your favorite model train!

"Scale" as defined in terms of model trains is the comparative ratio of measurements between a model train and its full size prototype.  Large scale model trains are the largest model trains.

In the language of model trains, "gauge" refers to the space between the rails of track.  "O" gauge model trains are the largest gauge of model trains followed by "S gauge model trains.  About half the size of "O" gauge model trains are "HO" gauge model trains.  After "HO" comes "N" gauge model trains followed by the smallest, the "Z" gauge model trains.

So which of the wide variety of model trains is right for you?  A big determining factor for most model railroaders is available space,  I believe this is what makes "HO" model trains the most popular form of model railroading.  "HO" model trains are small enough to be in a small space, but yet are big enough to allow you to work with easily and people can see what they have created.  "HO" model trains are over sixty percent of the model trains market.  If you don't have much space to work with, "N" model trains might be right for you.  For the really adventurous model trains enthusiast, the large scale garden model trains are probably the one for you.  You can use your backyard for the landscape of your model trains.  What a great deal for you!

Model trains of every different scale and gauge will be perfect for someone.  Choose the model train that is right for you and happy railroading.     

 


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Top-level comments on this article: (1 total)
» left by Susan Thom
 3 years 106 days ago.
174 fans.
hi david,
 
this was a well written, interesting article, and watching trains zip around the track is a favorite pleasure for most people. thanks for sharing, and i hope you continue writing,
 
best regards,
 
sue thom
» left by Anonymous 3 years 104 days ago.
Sue

Thank you for the kind words.  I have always enjoyed model railroading.

David
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