Posts Tagged ‘model trains’

Electric Train Set Layouts

July 14th, 2011 dwalton
... First Electric Train Set

Lego 2010 Preview: Lego City Train Sets

Author: Inger Fountain

Lego have been releasing train sets for decades and it is one of their most popular non-franchise based lines. The first train Lego released had ordinary wheels and no track. That was way back in 1965 and a year later they realised the popularity of toys trains in Lego format and released another train set, this time with track and a battery powered motor.

Since that time Trains have been a standby for Lego and a significant part of any Lego city. From 4.5V battery motors came the 12 volt powered electric trains in 1969, the year of the moon landing, and Lego haven't looked back since. In 1991 the introduced a 9 volt system which lasted until 2006 when the current remote control era came into effect.

From 2006 to 2009 Lego train releases were controlled by using a wireless handheld controller which controls a motor in the engine. Using infrared communication and batteries in the engine the train was controlled around the track but the system lacked functions and power and proved unpopular with many fans.

In 2010 Lego are releasing their latest range of remote controlled trains, but this time the remote control makes use of the successful Lego Power Functions (PF) method of automation. T he first two trains to use this method are set 7938 Passenger Train and 7939 Cargo Train, furthering Lego's tradition of offering both cargo and express trains together.

Lego is also introducing flexible track, pieces of track that can be bent indifferent arcs depending on the track layout requirements. A Train Station 7937 is also set for release this year which will please many train fans as well as a level crossing, sadly missing for the last few years.

The 2010 trains from Lego will be worth hunting down and adding to any city Lego layout to transport minifigs in style.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/lego-2010-preview-lego-city-train-sets-2654123.html

About the Author

Inger loves stories and loves to write. As a librarian in a previous life she also has an insatiable thirst for general knowledge. You can visit her latest websites which take a look at energy saving home appliances including electric pizza oven and hand crank flashlight models.



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Free 00 Model Railway Layout Plans

July 10th, 2011 dwalton
Reflections from the House ...

Model Railroad Track Plans and Layout Information

Author: Steve Barnett

You can find all types of track plans that can be downloaded to your computer. Some of these track plans are free. One place to find free track plans is Atlas Railroad at http://www.atlasrr.com/. Atlas also offers a free download on their web site that allows you to create your own track plans using their track. Although the most fun way is to create your own from scratch. This way you have a one-of-a-kind layout. The first thing when preparing to build a layout is to figure out how much space you have for your model. Once you have the dimensions of your layout you probably need to sketch these on a piece of paper. Now you can start thinking about what gauge and era you want to model. The next step would be to decide if you are going to have mountains with maybe tunnels, or bridges crossing streams, or rivers. Also you may want your rail crossing over a deep valley or maybe an interstate highway. You will also, need to consider why your railroad exists. Your railroad needs a purpose like hauling raw materials to a factor or hauling coal from a mine or timber from the forest.

When you have all the information you need to start your layout you will need to start drawing this information on paper to get a rough idea of what you have. Once you have a drawing to work from you can build the bench work for your railroad making it stout and sturdy. Now you can use several different things for the foundation of your railroad. Probably the most used is plywood. You can start by covering your bench work with the plywood for a sound foundation. If you have rivers running through your layout you may want to cut the plywood where your rivers will run and remove it from your layout. You may also need to cut into some of the cross members on your bench work allowing your river to be deep enough. If you have to cut very deep into your cross members make sure you reinforce them with more boards.

Now that you have your foundation you can start building your terrain. To build mountains or hills you can build these up with Styrofoam or use screen wire covered with spackling compound either one will work well. While designing your terrain remember that the grade or rise of your train track should not be over 4o at maximum but the best is from 0o to 3o which means that for a 1% grade your track rise 1" for every 100". Another thing to keep in mind is that on your main lines you do not need sharp curves. Having sharp curves is probably one of the main reasons trains derail. The best track to use is flex track. This way you can make sweeping curves that make it easier for you locomotives to navigate around, but also give a more realistic look to you layout. No matter what never give up and always have fun with model railroading. For more information on mode railroad track plans visit http://www.trainmodelingbook.com/information-on-designing-model-railroad-track-plans/.

Thanks,

Steve Barnett

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/crafts-articles/model-railroad-track-plans-and-layout-information-2991514.html

About the Author

Steve Barnett is a model train expert. For more information on mode railroad track plans visit http://www.trainmodelingbook.com/information-on-designing-model-railroad-track-plans/.


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Small Ho Model Train Layouts

July 7th, 2011 dwalton
Go to the HO & N section of ...

N Scale Model Trains are Small but Big on Details

Author: Steve Barnett

The first N scale model were introduce in 1962 by the Arnold company.  The N scale model trains are very small compared to most other scale trains. The scale is the second largest modeled train scale in the world. The N scale is almost half the size of the HO scale trains, having a track gauge of 9 mm. Therefore the N in N scale stands for Nine millimeters from rail to rail. This means that it is only .354 of an inch between the rails of the track, which is very small. The scale ranges from 1:148 to 1:160 with the track gauge always being 9mm. The 1:160 scales is the most used and considered the correct scale for modelers in the United States.

The N scale locomotives are small, but usually have very powerful motors. Some N scale locomotive can pull trains with up to a hundred cars. The manufacturers of N scale produce locomotives for almost any era or prototype you would like to model. You can find locomotive portraying real locomotive from the first train, through the steam era, and all the way to the modern diesel electric locomotives. You can also find N scale rolling stock to match whatever era you decided to model in. The locomotives and rolling stock can be found in almost any road name, or undercoated where you can put whatever name on them you would like.

Modeling scenery in N scale is very rewarding. You are able to model fairly large town on your layouts without taking up so much space. Another great thing about N scale is the being able to model mountain ranges, valleys, rivers, fields, farms, and many other things into a small layout without it looking so crowded. When looking for building and structures for your layout the possibilities are almost endless. You can find tall buildings to small farm houses, and small girder bridges to large tussle bridges. You can find people, animals, signs, light poles, telephone poles, and road and sidewalk kits for you N scale model train layouts.

When it comes to the track your trains run on you are able to model any track layout you can think of. You can find N scale track in sections of straight and preset curves in a variety of radiuses. You can also find long straight track that can be bent into any shape your layout needs. Furthermore; when it comes to track you can find almost any type of switch, (manually or electric) enabling you to switch your trains from one track to another. Also, you can find crossing track in many different angles. Another way type of track is scratch built, where you lay the ties one by one and then fasten the rail to these ties. This type of track requires a lot more time and patients to install, but makes a layout look more realistic than using sectional track. When building your layout never get discouraged or give up, always keep in mind that the reason you are modeling trains is that it is fun to do and gets your mind off depressing things. So start having lots of fun building you model layout. For more great information on N scale model trains visit,  http://www.trainmodelingbook.com/n-scale-model-trains/.

Your, modeling friend,

Steve Barnett

 

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/crafts-articles/n-scale-model-trains-are-small-but-big-on-details-3103425.html

About the Author

Steve Barnett is a model train expert. For more great information on N scale model trains visit,  http://www.trainmodelingbook.com/n-scale-model-trains/.



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Model Railway Shops Online

June 27th, 2011 dwalton
... Terraced Shops in Stone

The Top 10 Model Train Shops in Illinois

Author: Larry Truett

For the past year I've been compiling a list of model train stores for my model railroading website.  These shops all look like a lof of fun to visit, but what are the most popular?   Here is a list for the great state of Illinois.

The most popular model railroading shops (based on online chatter) in the state of Illinois are:

10. Ace Hobby Place in Chicago

9. Hammers Hobbies in Springfield

8. Woodstock Hobbies in Woodstock

7. B and G Train World in Elgin

6. Denny's Trains and Things in Oswego

5. America’s Best Train Toy and Hobby Shop in Itasca

4. Prospect Bikes and Trains in Mount Prospect

3. Spring Hill Northern Train Supply in Richmond

2. Chicagoland Hobby in Chicago

...and the most popular shop for model trains in Illinois is...

1. First Hobby in Decatur

Hobby shops not quite making my top 10 were Al's Hobby Shop in Elmhurst, Atomic Toy Company in Galena, Berywn's Toy Trains and Models in Berwyn, Choo Choo Connection in Schaumburg, Des Plaines Hobbies in Des Plaines, Ed's Hobby Warehouse in Palos Hills, Golden Spike Train Shop in Burbank, Grayslake Hobby World in Grayslake, Hands To Work Railroading in Alsip, Hauff Hobbies and Train Repair in Glenview, Hill's Hobby & Collectors' Shop in Buffalo Grove, Hobbies R 4 U in Bradley, Hobby City in Berwyn, K-10's Model Trains in Maryville, LaGrange Hobby Center in La Grange, Leisure Hours Hobbies in Joliet, Mike's Scale Rails in Peoria, Oakridge Hobbies and Toys in Downers Grove, Past-Time Hobbies in Brookfield, Pat's Hobbies Oak Lawn, Pizza Express LGB Train Shop in Carterville, Rossville Depot Railroad Museum in Rossville, Royal Hobby Shop in Rockford, Sweetname Hardware and Model Train in Peoria, Thunder Road Hobbies in Moline, Tom Thumb Hobby and Crafts in Evanston, Trains and Toys of Yesterday in in Morton Grove, Venture Hobbies Wheeling, Wabash Junction in Springfield, and Walt's Hobby Shop in Joliet.

Also in Illinois be sure to visit some of the great railroading museums including Chatham Railroad Museum in Chatham, Chicago Great Western Railway Depot Museum in Elizabeth, Illinois Railway Museum in Union, Kankakee Railroad Museum in Kankakee, Monticello Railway Museum in Monticello, Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, and Union Depot Railroad Museum in Mendota.

I compiled this list by searching for the hobby shops listed on a number of search engines and ranking them by the number of web pages, discussion forums, photos, videos, etc that are available online.  I further screened this list to include only pages that mentioned model railroading.

Check out my complete list of Model Train Shops in Illinois at www.ModelTrainsWithLarry.com which has complete contact information for each shop including an address, phone number, and map to the store.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/the-top-10-model-train-shops-in-illinois-1392715.html

About the Author

I'm a freelance PHP and MySQL programmer living in the San Carlos neighborhood of San Diego with my wife and our 3 cats. I enjoy hiking, reading, gardening, watching too much television, and other nerdy activites.



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Pre Built N Gauge Model Railway Layouts

June 16th, 2011 dwalton
MODEL RAILWAY LAYOUTS MODEL ...

Creating A Realistic Layout For The N Model Railroad

Author: David Blackburn

Creating a realistic layout for the N Model Railroad starts with taking the time to carefully plan out the desired scenery for your railroad setting. You may want to start by taking a pen and notepad with you when you are attending model train expos or shows. Jot down any of the ideas you see which inspire you to create your own layout.

After have gone over the ideas you have taken notes on, start making rough sketches of how you want your layout to look. From here you will get a better idea of what you can and cannot do in the space you have for you N Model Railroad layout. You will find some ideas will have to be eliminated while others take their place.

One of the first hands on projects you can do in an effort to have a realistic layout is to “weather” your N Model Railroad train. When you first obtained the train it came out of the packaging looking fresh and new. Real trains rarely look this way. It takes very little time before a train becomes quite dirty. You can use paint, dirt, motor oil and automotive grease to dirty up you train and give it a more realistic look.

One you have decided on the types and amounts of buildings you want to have in your lay out it is time to do a little research. If possible take photos of the types of buildings you are going to have in your layout. If this is not possible, try obtaining some photos online. The reason for this is you need a visual reference to guide you as to how best decorate these building for more realism. Plus, these photos can assist you if you are purchasing buildings from stores offering N model Railroad layout supplies or hobby stores, which carry model, sized buildings.

You may not find the right building you want for your layout in train accessory stores. If pre-made buildings in hobby store do not meet your needs you may want make your own buildings. This can be done with simple light wood kits or Styrofoam kits available in hobby stores. There are also more elaborate building kits you can use which come with epoxy molds. These might be more suited your needs if there are specific building you are looking to have replicas of in your layout.

The time of year your layout will be set in is another factor you will want to consider when creating a realistic layout. You can purchase trees and other landscaping replicas from model train store, hobby stores, and even dollhouse stores. Paints can be purchased in small containers from a hobby store so you can mix colors to paint the trees and other scenery the appropriate colors for your layout. Purchase items such as aerosol snow to spray on the landscaping if you are going for a winter layout.

No matter what scenery or season you choose for your layout the most important thing is that you have fun and enjoy creating this world for your train and imagination to travel through.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/creating-a-realistic-layout-for-the-n-model-railroad-1468971.html

About the Author

David Blackburn has had a passion for Model Trains for over 20 years. His enthusiasm and knowledge on the subject of model trains can be found in his writing and his new book. For more great information on n model railroad visit his site at: http://www.modeltrainsadvice.com While you are there make sure you sign up for his FREE "Secrets To Successful Model Railroading" Mini Course.


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Free N Gauge Model Railway Layouts

June 16th, 2011 dwalton
South Florida Railway Museum ...

The O Model Railroad

Author: iris bell

The model railroading hobby has a rich history, and every type of train has it's very own story. Take the O model railroad for example. The O gauge is actually the 0 (zero) gauge and was created to be smaller than Gauge 1. This gauge was created by the train manufacturers due to the fact the smaller scale trains were selling better than the large scale models.

The reason for this was generally space. Many modelers were doing much more than just watching the train go around in circles. They were in fact creating elaborate scenery, and they simply could not do that quite as effectively with the larger trains. In 1929 it became clear that a depression was in the air and as a result the market for larger scale trains went down the drain.

Before the second world war, the sizes of the O model railroad trains varied greatly, but they were all capable of running on the same track. This made them highly compatible and even interchangeable for hobbysists. The O scale was truly setting a standard that many people never expected to see in their lifetime.

Following the second world war when materials were more plentiful these trains suddenly became more realistic than ever before. For the first time they were becoming larger and resembling real world trains. Hobbyists were becoming truly interested now and could create a real landscape in which their train could navigate.

Though they were quite realistic in their time, they only improved their aesthetic appearance through the seventies, eighties, and nineties. One thing to note though is that the O scale is nowhere near as popular as the H0 or N scale which are a bit smaller and more convenient. The one advantage that the O scale can claim is a more detailed exterior. Smaller models simply could not do that, though they can be fairly close to real-world trains.

The O model railroad is a choice, and it is one that you will have to make as the modeler. Make sure that you weigh your options and of course determine whether or not you really have the room for an O scale train in your home or building. It can be more difficult to build scenery for a larger train if you do not have an adequately sized house, and that may further you need for smaller trains. If you have the room however, or simply wish to enjoy a basic train without the scenery, the O model railroad might be your best bet.

Just remember to assess your needs and make sure you are doing the right thing. Choosing the right model train and accessories is never easy, and the true choice will come from within. So long as you remember that you will do great, and you might even find that the O model railroad is for you, especially if you're interested in using a piece of model train history that simply never gets old.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/art-and-entertainment-articles/the-o-model-railroad-3075120.html

About the Author

Want more valuable tips on setting up your own O Model Railroads. Grab your copy of our free mini-course on model railway train secrets today at http://modelrailroadtraintips.com right now.



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Lgb Christmas Train Sets

June 3rd, 2011 dwalton
, Garden Train Sets ...

Build Your Own Model Train Display Case

Author: Stuart James Smith

Anyone who has spent the significant amount of time it takes to be a railroad hobbyist knows the importance of using model train display cases to keep their investment safe. There are far too many factors that can hinder the functioning of a model train not to take precautions against them. If you find the right one, not only will your investment and hobby be safe, but you'll still be able to view and enjoy it as much as when it's running.

You have two options when it comes to model train display cases, you can hire someone to build one for you, or you can take on the project and build it yourself. Of course hiring someone would be far easier, but much more expensive. If you're like most of us, you'll want to save some money and decide to build it yourself. I hope that these tips will give you some assistance in the process.

Instead of starting from scratch, you can buy some pre-fabricated cabinets - i.e. medicine cabinet-in which to store your model trains. Be sure to purchase the cabinets with glass front doors in order for your train pieces to be viewed. From here, you will design the set-up of the display case around the dimensions of your train pieces. This is inexpensive, fast, and easy to accomplish. These cabinets make the perfect model train display cases.

If starting from scratch, purchase enough wood to construct a similar structure as the cabinets above. The open-ended box you create will serve as the frame of your display case. It should be shallow and have dimensions to fit your model train pieces. When installing the shelving, you want to be sure that they are adjustable to different heights. By simply drilling different holes and inserting dowels you allow yourself the ability to adjust the shelving around to accommodate the different sizes of your pieces.

The shelving you decide upon should be either wood or glass. If you choose to go with the glass shelving, your model pieces should be displayed on the track pieces themselves, separated by stoppers on both ends. If you choose to go with wooden shelving, the pieces can simply be placed on mini dowels you have drilled into place to hold your model pieces in place.

When constructing the backing for your model train display case, many folks tend to go for a mirrored effect. Mirrored backing is much harder to work with than a simple wooden backing. However, if you wish your case to encompass a bit of class, then you may want to steer towards a mirrored backing. The doors once again need to be glass or some form of clear acrylic sheets in order for your model to be displayed and viewed. Be sure the hinges are strong and mounted correctly.

While hiring someone to construct your model train display case may be the easier way to go, you'll be very pleased with your finished product considering you built it by hand and you saved yourself a load of money. Take your time and do it right, and you'll be enjoying your model train set for years to come.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/art-and-entertainment-articles/build-your-own-model-train-display-case-848052.html

About the Author
For more information on model trains and model train layouts visit Model Trains Today.



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British Model Railway Layouts

May 23rd, 2011 dwalton
British Railways modelled ...

Are G Scale Model Trains The Beauty Or The Beast?

Author: David Blackburn

The G scale model trains are one of the larger sizes of trains that are commercially produced. If you want a train any larger than the G scale, chances are you will have to build it yourself. Those who do not want to build their own train can have it commissioned to be built for them at a very high price.  The G scale can be found at most any model train retailer already assembled and ready to go on the tracks right out of the box. This makes it very popular to those who want a large train, but do not want to have to build it themselves, or spend a lot of money.

A very common misconception is G scale model trains are named after the fact most are found in gardens. In fact, most people refer to G scale trains simply as garden trains instead. What many people do not know is the G scale was created by the Germans and is called that because the German word for big is gros. The Germans had a very big influence in the creation of the model train industry as it is known today. This is why you will find many different German names in the models you can buy.

There are some who believe G scale model trains are simply too large to be attractive in their homes. These are usually the people who have smaller homes or apartments they live in. The only way they would be able to enjoy this kind of train is if they enjoyed the train by itself or has a track, which went around the perimeter of the home. This has put the G scale out of the reach of most people who are looking to get started as a model railroader. They instead opt for the smaller sizes of N scale or Z scale.

Detail is something, which most model railroaders prize above all else. G scale model trains allow the manufacturer to be able to include many details not afforded on smaller models. Even those who prefer to build their own model trains are able to include far more detail than would be possible on a smaller model. This makes the G scale very popular for those looking for a realistic train that they can show off. Having a larger train allows the landscape to be real grass, which is why they are called garden trains to begin with.

Another great thing about G scale model trains is they are large enough to be waterproof. This means they can run outside in most any weather. As long as the track is clear from debris, there is almost no reason you cannot enjoy your train year round. Those looking for an outside hobby feel this a great way to enjoy something like a train while still being able to get outside for some fresh air. Having your train outside makes it a more inviting arena for friends to enjoy it as well.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/are-g-scale-model-trains-the-beauty-or-the-beast-1299435.html

About the Author

David Blackburn has had a passion for Model Trains for over 20 years. His enthusiasm and knowledge on the subject of model trains can be found in his writing and his new book. For more great information on G Scale Model Trains visit his site at: http://www.modeltrainsadvice.com. While you are there don’t forget to sign up for his FREE "Secrets To Successful Model Railroading" Mini Course.



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Z Gauge Model Railway Layouts

May 22nd, 2011 dwalton
... layout by richard turner

A Newbie Guide to Model Railroads

Author: Clint Spille

This is a general outline of what the model railroad hobby is and what it entails. In an attempt not to discourage new beginners to this ever growing pastime, this article will not be too technical yet designed to catch your interest. The chief thing that any model train enthusiast should know is about scale and gauge.

Scale refers to the actual size of the railroad engine, cars, and accessories. They can be little enough to easily fit on an office desk top, or large enough for a garden railway. Scale is also referred to in letter form. For instance, 'G' scale train models are 1:24 scale, which means it's just 1/24th the size of an actual train.

These are frequently found with train hobbyists who lay out their model trains in a back yard setting, such as interwoven throughout gardens, and other landscaping. The 'Z' scale is a mere 1:220, meaning it's two-hundred and twenty times smaller than an actual railroad. As mentioned previously, this size is perfect for a desk top lay out, but it's so little in size that they are tricky to work with, and aren't in wide use.

The next part regarding model railroads is gauge. Although this is frequently confused with scale by many beginners, it is NOT the same as scale, and mixing up the two will certainly irritate experienced railroad hobbyists. What gauge measures is the distance between the train track rails. For instance, if you have a nine gauge railroad track, this means that there is 9 millimeters of space between the inside of the rails. In this case, the larger the gauge, the larger the space.

Now despite the fact that this may seem a little confusing, do not worry. HO scale is 1:87, and is ideal for lots of new beginners, as well as many other enthusiasts. it is little enough to fit well with lots of various layouts, yet big enough for the average individual to handle, and they show well. This is the most commonly used scale in the model railroad world not only because of its versatility, but also because parts and accessories are easy to obtain.

This brings us to layouts and accessories. Having model railroads would be very boring if all it entailed was a train engine moving along a track. That's why a model train can include numerous various train cars, passenger cars, hoppers, and tank containers, just to name a few. Then there are all the layout accessories, trestles, miniature people and vehicles, as well as buildings and scenery.

The potential is really only limited to your imagination. You can even construct your own landscaping ideas, with artificial plants torn apart for trees, shrubs, and other plants. You could even use old cleaned out tin cans, painted, for things such as grain silos, or oil refinery tanks.

There are a lot of basic sets a beginner can buy, with all things to start your hobby. You can find many of these on websites, or you could also start at your local hobby shop. A retailer can not only offer a lot of various ideas, but can also answer lots of if not all of your questions. Hopefully you will want to know more information about model railroads, and you can find numerous example layouts online for creative ideas.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/a-newbie-guide-to-model-railroads-1354134.html

About the Author
For more information on model trains be sure to sign up for my free "Secrets to Successful Model Railroading!" mini-course. This mini-course covers many important aspects of model railroading including model train layouts, how to properly setup your track to avoid future problems, and much more.



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Wooden Train Sets

May 13th, 2011 dwalton
... wooden train sets he

Basic Things You Should Know About Model Trains

Author: Kevin Smalley

Model Trains has become a leisure pursuit by many for years. It is a good way to engage your time and polish your artistic talent.  There is so much involved in this hobby other than just collecting locomotive. It also entails building sceneries and enriching your skill on scales and gauges. Gauge refers to the distance between the rails. Models of certain scale run on standard-gauge track.

Discover Model Trains

Manufacturers have the goal of creating accurate and realistic model trains. The first model trains were powered by wind-up clockwork, or steam engines, with the first electric model trains appearing in the late 19th century.

The German manufacturer Marklin produced detailed trains as well as signals, stations, houses, and other scenery and destinations. Other German companies made ride-on-top live steam trains.

In 1906, Joshua Cowen invented Lionel trains, which soon became to dominate the American toy train market. More recently, LGB popularized garden trains in the United States.

Toy trains look less realistic than model trains, but often appeal to collectors. The first toy trains were made of cast =iron or were pull toys. In the early 20th century, Lionel started making toy trains for standard gauge and O gauge. Other companies, such as American Flyer, Ives, and Marx made similar trains.

The interactive aspect of trains make toy trains perfect for young children. Some adults’ first memory of a toy was that of a Lionel train. Children between the ages of 4 and 6 may be introduced to wooden train sets that spark the imagination. Children 8 years of age and older may be introduced to S scale electric trains, HO scale electric trains, or G scale electric trains under the guidance of an adult. Make sure that you carefully read all safety instructions that come with any train set before allowing children of any age to use it.

Four Most Common Scales

  • Z scale (1:220) model railroad trains: Z scale trains make a good choice for anyone with limited space. These trains are not only tiny but highly detailed.    
  • N scale (1:160) model railroad trains: N scale is a popular scale and the second smallest after Z scale. N scale trains are perfect for hobbyists who want to run long trains or keep the focus on the scenery. The price of N equipment is slightly higher than HO scale. Micro-Trains, or MTL, is a well-known brand that makes scale trains.    
  • HO scale (1:87) model railroad trains: HO scale trains, one of the most popular scales with modelers, come in countless types of trains and have = large selection of scenery available as well. HO trains are generally highly detailed and a good value. An HO layout requires a moderate amount of space.    
  • S scale (1:64) model railroad trains: S scale trains—the scale of American Flyer trains—also =ave a strong following among narrow-gauge model railroaders. This larger scale makes the train dominate any set. S scale does not have the massive following of HO or N scale.    
  • O scale (1:48) model railroad trains: O scale trains are very popular toy =rains. Lionel continues to make trains for =his scale. O scale trains are easily handled by children. MTH makes tinplate lines of model trains in O and standard gauges.    
  • G scale (1:22.5) model railroad trains: G scale trains are for indoor use, but =re especially suited for garden trains. L.G.B. made the scale popular in the United States and makes detailed, sturdy trains that stand up to =he elements. Other manufacturers in this scale include Bachmann and Aristo-Craft.

 

 

 

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/collecting-articles/basic-things-you-should-know-about-model-trains-1337744.html

About the Author

Kevin Smalley is a Model Train enthusiast and expert. For more great tips on model trains visit http://www. modeltrainshome.com. Learn the basics by signing up to our FREE Model Trains Home Mini-Course now!


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