|
Model Trains come in a many scales. From largest to smallest they are G, O, S, HO, TT, N & Z scales. Model trains are available in standard and narrow gauge. European scales also in OO gauge which has the same track gauge as HO gauge but is a larger scale.
G gauge is made up of many scales but they all use the same track gauge. 1:20.5, 1:22.5, 1:29 & 1:32 all run on the same track. The size and rugged design makes this size of model train popular for garden railroads. Popular brands are LGB, Aristo-craft, USA Trains, Bachmann though there are other brands as well.
O gauge is one of the oldest sizes around. The tracks can have 2 or 3 rails. The trains are large and a large space is required to set up a reasonable layout. The old companies like Lionel and Marx made model railroading popular and fun with all their cool operating accessories. Today Lionel, K-Line, MTH, and many other manufacturers keep this a popular size.
S gauge is about 1/64 scale and runs on 2 rails it was made popular by American Flyer. There are a few suppliers but it is very limited in availability.
HO scale model trains are the most popular of all model train scale. HO is 1:87 scale Athearn, Atlas, Kato, Roundhouse, Life-Like, Bachmann, Model Power and many other manufacturers ensure there are always new products to meet modeler demand.
TT scale is 1:120 scale. TT model trains are not very plentiful nor is availability very good.
N scale Model trains are 1:160 and about 1/4 the physical size of HO model trains. They are great for small layouts as well as large layouts with dramatic scenery being made possible. Kato, Atlas, Bachmann, Life-Like, Model Power and Micro-trains are constantly bringing out new models.
Z scale is 1:220 and about 1/2 the size of N scale. They are tiny but very well detailed. Z scale modelers are growing in number as more products become available. Marklin and Micro-trains are the major manufacturers of Z scale.
|
