| One of the first things new model railroad enthusiasts | | | | popular scale since there are so many accessories |
| learn is the terminology. Things like scale and gauge | | | | available that are life like and have working parts. |
| become everyday lingo. We've outlined some of the | | | | S Scale - 1:64 - It's been said the S scale isn't quite as |
| most popular scales used for these popular model | | | | popular as many of the others; however, many of us |
| toys. Keep reading and before long, you'll be an old | | | | are sentimental and are drawn to this particular scale |
| hand with all things model toys. | | | | since it's what we're most familiar with from our |
| First things first, let's define scale as it's used in | | | | childhoods. |
| reference to model railroads: Scale is the proportion to | | | | HO Scale - 1:87 - Another popular scale, the HO is 1 |
| an actual size train or its prototype; the smaller the | | | | 87th in terms of comparison to the real thing. Its size is |
| scale, the more you can fit into your allocated model | | | | considered ideal and easily works on standard |
| train area. | | | | plywood sizes. This is another scale that offers a lot in |
| G Scale - 1:22.5 - G scale is most often used in garden | | | | accessories. |
| layouts and is sometimes referred to as an LGB scale. | | | | TT Scale - 1:120 - Many tend to avoid this scale simply |
| It's ideal for those who appreciate gardening and | | | | because suppliers of accessories aren't plentiful. |
| landscaping. | | | | N Scale - 1:160 - Not the smallest scale, but very close. |
| O Scale - 1:48 - Although similar to the O27 scale, | | | | That said, it's a popular scale for model toys since it's |
| there are a few differences which we'll outline below. If | | | | perfect for those with limited space. Its size is half of |
| your goal is to keep the proportions as realistic as | | | | what the HO offers. Like long curves and a lot of |
| possible, you should consider a large area to build | | | | scenery? This might be your best option. |
| around this scale. The trains are bigger than all other | | | | Z Scale - 1:120 - This is the smallest sized trains, but |
| scales except for G scale, and incorporate DC | | | | ideal for really tight spaces or smaller bedrooms. |
| currents. | | | | Another strong point the Z scale brings to the table is |
| O27 Scale - 1:48 - Similar to O scale, O27 is | | | | its ease of transportation. |
| differentiated by the curves in the tracks. The O 27's | | | | With just a little consideration and thought about how |
| area is a 27" arc or circle while the standard O Scale | | | | you intend to incorporate your model railroad into the |
| will encompass 31". Another significant difference is the | | | | available space, you can easily choose the best scale |
| 27's shorter and thinner rails. This is a particularly | | | | for your needs. |