| Before choosing model train track for your railroading, | | | | sure that the track is grounded to avoid creating a |
| you'll have to decide on the scale of train you want to | | | | hazard. There are many premade tracks available |
| use; the size of your train determines the gauge of | | | | which you can assemble to create the layouts you like, |
| track you can use. Tracks which are the wrong gauge | | | | so hobbyists don't have to reinvent the wheel unless |
| for your trains will mean that your train will not be able | | | | they choose. |
| to run on the track, since it will be too narrow or too | | | | Before you start creating your layouts, you should think |
| wide. You can choose from several different gauges | | | | about the amount of track needed; a lot of starter train |
| and styles of track, including tracks which come | | | | sets come with a small amount of track, often just as |
| complete with a base, a style which is preferred by | | | | much as you need to make a basic layout for your |
| many. | | | | trains. There are sets which include more track and |
| Model train tracks are pretty easy to assemble for the | | | | allow you to create more complex layouts, though if |
| most part; most styles can just be snapped together | | | | you choose these sets, you do need to make sure |
| to connect them and come with a plastic base which | | | | that they include a list of all of the things you'll need |
| is grounded so as to be safe for use with electric | | | | such as switchbacks, power tracks, curves and |
| model trains. Some of these tracks include artificial | | | | lengths. When you find layout designs in books or on |
| gravel, a realistic touch which most hobbyists prefer. | | | | the web, you should also look for a list of materials so |
| However, the downside to these prefab tracks is that | | | | that you can easily shop for the supplies you need. |
| you have to use them as is, meaning that your layouts | | | | There are plenty of online resources available which |
| are largely determined by the tracks' curves. One | | | | you can use to learn about different model train tracks |
| option which offers you more flexibility is Flexitrack, | | | | and layouts as well as a large number of books. You |
| which is track which as the name implies, can be bent | | | | might want to start with a book to familiarize yourself |
| into the turns you'd like to incorporate into your layout | | | | with track design. Your local hobby shops are also an |
| while still having a realistic look. | | | | excellent place to get information and advice as well |
| Laying your own track manually is a possibility, but is | | | | as purchase the supplies you need; there will usually be |
| one which is not recommended for novice model train | | | | someone handy who has expertise with model |
| hobbyists. When you lay your own track, you need to | | | | railroading to answer your questions. |
| make many very careful measurements and make | | | | |