Model Train Scale - How To Choose The Right One

People who are new to model trains are often unsure about which scale to use - terms such as "scale" and "gauge" regularly cause confusion and there are lots of different scales, measurements, and other considerations that need to be made when starting out.

Just to clarify - the term "scale" refers to the ratio of the model train in relation to the real sized train - for instance, and N scale train is 1:160 of the real size equivalent. On the other hand, "gauge" relates to the distance between the rails - for example, the N gauge has a distance of 9mm.

There are several different scales to choose from - the main ones are the following (this can vary slightly depending on the country you're based in):

• O Scale: 1:48
• S Scale: 1:64
• OO Scale: 1:76
• HO Scale: 1:87
• N scale: 1:160
• Z Scale: 1:220

As can be seen, the O scale is the largest at 1:48 with the Z scale the smallest at 1:220.

With all these different scales to choose from, the obvious question becomes which is the most suitable for you. This depends on a number of factors - for instance, you need to consider how much space you have - the O scale will clearly take up considerably more room than the HO scale. The rails, tunnels, and accessories such as trees, bushes, animals, people, and anything else you wish to add will also be bigger.

With the smaller scales it's easier to hide any mistakes or anything that isn't quite perfect - this isn't so easy with the larger scales. Mistakes are amplified and more work has to be done to cover them up.

It's also harder to create realistic layouts with the larger scales - the HO scale is a "trade-off" between the different scales as it's not too small or large. As a result, it's become much more popular than the other scales and easier to make realistic designs.

Other factors may also be an issue - for example, if you have particularly large hands and fingers you may find it frustrating working with the smaller scales. Also, if you have poor eyesight that may influence which scale you use and may force you to use one of the larger scales.

It should also be noted that many women prefer the smaller scales, whilst men typically go for the larger ones such as HO and larger.

Many people who are interested in model trains also like to involve their children - again, this could influence the scale you wish to use. If your children are young you may be concerned about them dealing wih the smaller scales due to the risks of small parts coming loose. A larger scale may be more appropriate for children.

The scale you choose will also likely depend on the type of display you want to build - the HO scale is far and away the most popular scale and as a result there are many more accessories available for this scale.

The other scales are not quite as popular and thus do not have the same range of trains and accessories available.

The key when choosing your model scale is to ensure that you do your research - consider how much space you have, and the other factors discussed in this article, and make a decision based on that.

It may also be worth approaching a local model train shop to discuss which scale they think may be best suited to your needs.