| Model train hobbyists have a lot of choices as to | | | | If you prefer long trains with a lot of cars, N scale |
| scales. If you're a model train enthusiast who has | | | | trains may also be a good choice. They are |
| a small amount of space to work with, then you | | | | lightweight enough that you can run a long train |
| may want to have a look at the smaller scales | | | | without worrying about losing power, something |
| such as N gauge trains. These model trains are | | | | which is a common problem for hobbyists |
| far smaller than the more common HO and O | | | | working with larger trains. There is also the factor |
| scale trains; N scale trains are designed with small | | | | of portability; you can find portable workbenches |
| spaces in mind - you can make entire layouts for | | | | for your N scale layouts, making moving these |
| these trains on a work bench as small as 8' by 4' | | | | trains a snap. |
| or even smaller. The name of the scale refers to | | | | N gauge trains are made by a variety of different |
| the size of the tracks these trains run on: N is | | | | companies, though Lionel and Bachmann are the |
| short for nine, which is the space between the | | | | most popular brands. Bachmann in particular |
| rails. N scale trains are in a ratio of 1:160 to real | | | | makes some high quality and affordable starter |
| trains, which is approximately half the size of HO | | | | kits such as the Prairie Flyer Set, which includes a |
| trains (which are made in a 1:87 ratio). However, | | | | 4-4-0 steam locomotive with tender, coach cars |
| the exact size of the trains may vary depending | | | | and a combine as well as plenty of EZ track; |
| on the manufacturer. | | | | enough to make an oval of 34" by 24". This kit is |
| Even though they're somewhat less popular than | | | | available for less than $100 from many retailers. |
| the larger O and HO scales, N scale trains are the | | | | You can also find plenty of scenery packages for |
| most popular of the smaller scales and the cars, | | | | N gauge trains, including buildings, plants, people |
| tracks and other accessories are widely available. | | | | and more. There are many online retailers who |
| While the trains may be small, the size does not | | | | carry N scale accessories and of course, your |
| mean sacrificing detail; many of these trains are | | | | local hobby shops more than likely carry plenty to |
| actually more detailed than are their larger | | | | choose from as well. If you're wondering what |
| counterparts. You may choose N scale trains | | | | sort of layouts you can put together for your N |
| even if space is not at a premium for you; the | | | | scale trains, you can look at many different |
| smaller size of these trains allows you to build | | | | layouts online and in books to give you some |
| very elaborate layouts in the same space a larger | | | | inspiration. |
| scale would require for a very basic setup. | | | | |