The question is puzzling as to why we continue to be enthralled with this hobby, even as we grow into adulthood. It is possible that it is because we like to be in control of a machine, even though it is a fraction of the original size. Maybe we have memories of the trains running out the window of the car on family vacations, or the sound of a model train in your living room around the Christmas tree. What ever your reason for enjoying the hobby of model train railroading, one thing is certain – it is no longer a toy but has somehow transitioned into something much more profound then that. It is now a machine, perfect for the boy inside all of us.

When most people think of toy trains, they picture the small plastic variety that are popular around the toy stores and big chain stores. These are generally not very good quality and are made from plastic, not steel. But they do offer a wonderful introduction to young boys to the wonderful hobby of model train railroading. As young boys grow into men, so to do their toys. They eventually transition into locomotives and are made to last for generations. They are made of a much higher quality and construction, with many features and functionalities that are not available on toys. They are built to have solid contact with the track and get the best electrical current possible to insure the smoothest track. They give a very real life experience and have a stronger engine, which means greater pulling capacity. They are heavier and allow for the most real life experience for all those involved.

There are many different types of toy model trains, just as there are many types of real life trains. The most common type of model train is the electric variety. But, many people do not realize that there are also those of the steam engine type available for purchase. There is almost nothing better then the smell and sight of real steam surrounding the landscape and scenery.

Many young boys to grow up and be a real life train conductor, but only a few are able to follow that dream. With certainty, most conductors today simply look at what they do as a job rather then the dream of a little boy. Ws can still have the experience of controlling a train through the wonderful hobby of model train railroading.

The question is puzzling as to why we continue to be enthralled with this hobby, even as we grow into adulthood. It is possible that it is because we like to be in control of a machine, even though it is a fraction of the original size. Maybe we have memories of the trains running out the window of the car on family vacations, or the sound of a model train in your living room around the Christmas tree. What ever your reason for enjoying the hobby of model train railroading, one thing is certain – it is no longer a toy but has somehow transitioned into something much more profound then that. It is now a machine, perfect for the boy inside all of us.

When most people think of toy trains, they picture the small plastic variety that are popular around the toy stores and big chain stores. These are generally not very good quality and are made from plastic, not steel. But they do offer a wonderful introduction to young boys to the wonderful hobby of model train railroading. As young boys grow into men, so to do their toys. They eventually transition into locomotives and are made to last for generations. They are made of a much higher quality and construction, with many features and functionalities that are not available on toys. They are built to have solid contact with the track and get the best electrical current possible to insure the smoothest track. They give a very real life experience and have a stronger engine, which means greater pulling capacity. They are heavier and allow for the most real life experience for all those involved.

There are many different types of toy model trains, just as there are many types of real life trains. The most common type of model train is the electric variety. But, many people do not realize that there are also those of the steam engine type available for purchase. There is almost nothing better then the smell and sight of real steam surrounding the landscape and scenery.

Many young boys to grow up and be a real life train conductor, but only a few are able to follow that dream. With certainty, most conductors today simply look at what they do as a job rather then the dream of a little boy. Ws can still have the experience of controlling a train through the wonderful hobby of model train railroading.

The first thing to consider is the space you have available for the model train. There are many different sizes and scales of model trains to choose from. As you talk with other hobbyists and they begin talking about scale and gauge, they are simply referring to the size of the train. The scale is exactly that, a sized down model of an original train.

There are basically four different sizes, or scales, that are most popular. Of those four, the N scale is the smallest and the ratio is basically 1:160 or in other words a scale N train is one sixtieth the size of a real train.  It is about half the size of the HO scale, which is about 1/87 scale. As you are looking and planning your space and realize that you do not have a lot of room to build, then the N scale is the choice for you. Another advantage is that it is much easier to make the scenery appear more realistic because the train is small compared to the surrounding trees and mountains.

Of the four different popular sizes, the N is much younger then any of the other scales, only coming into prominence in the 1960’s. Most of the other types have been around for over a century so it is pretty young in comparison. The N stands for nine millimeter because of the 9 mm gauge between the rails.

As you are deciding on the scale of the train to build, there are many different choices that you can make and the N scale is not the only choice of train. That decision is up to you, the owner and creator of your very own model train railroad. No matter what scale you ultimately decide upon. The thrill and joy of the hobby is the same.

When folks are out to set up their vision of the perfect landscape with the perfect train running through it, they have to consider size.  Model trains and train tracks are made by many different people and used for many different things.  Luckily, with so many choices, you can find the one that is right for you.  In order to ensure any brand of train fitting on any brand of tracks, train makers make trains and tracks according to scale and gauge.  When the model train hobbyists are talking about the scale of the train, they are talking about the size.  Scale is exactly that, a scaled down replica of the life-size or the prototype train.  It is the ratio and the different letters assigned to the scales reflect the natural differences in ratio.

An N scale train is on the smaller side in comparison to other scale models.  In fact, it is the smallest of the four most popular scales.  The ratio is 1:160.  In other words a scale N train is one sixtieth the size of a real train.  N scale is a little over half the size of HO.  HO scale is 1/87.  This scale is preferred by individuals who don’t have a lot of room for their layouts or those who love expansive scenery.  While the n scale trains are intended to take up less space in model layouts they also have more detail then some smaller sizes.  Rail cars and supplies that are smaller will contribute to a layout size that is easier to maintain and easier to add onto later on.  Another advantage of using N scale trains is that the smaller the rail car and tracks, the larger and more beautiful the scenery will appear around them.

Unlike O scale, HO scale, and standard scale, some of which have been around for a full century, the N scale trains only came into prominence in the 1960s.  The name N scale stands for nine millimeter because it has a gauge of 9 mm between the rails.  Gauge refers to the size of the track on which the model trains operate.  It is a measure of the distance between the rails of the train tracks.  Code on the other hand refers to the height of the rail.

N scale model trains are just one of the many different aspects of building model trains and scenery.  It is entirely up to the train building to use whatever train size is best for them.  No matter what the size of the train is, the thrill is all the same.

The most important aspect in planning out your railroad is the benchwork that will support the scenary and track. There are a few different ways that you can approach the planning and implementation of your foundation. You have basically two options, to build one on your own, or buy a pre-made kit. There are many advantages of buying your own kit. The holes are already pre-drilled and everything is precut, which will save you time and energy. I would recommend this if it’s your first experience with building a model train railroad. You can add to and embellish them to your own desires and it saves on the initial planning of the benchwork. Another advantage is that it is generally much sturdier then you might be able to create on your own.

The advantages to building your own benchwork is the fact that you can design, plan and create it to fit the location where it will be displayed. As you begin construction, keep in mind to make the plywood small so that you can move it in the future if the occasion arises. Typically the legs are around 28 inches tall, but can vary based on your design. The main thing to think about when you are building your own benchwork is that it is strong enough to hold up under the weight of the track and scenery.

Enhancing the scenery is the next step whether you have built your own or purchased a precut kit. There are many things that you can do to make it as realistic as possible. From positioning the larger trees in front and smaller ones in the back and on mountains, to creative placement of lighting. Also, the train that you run should match the surrounding scenery. For example, if you are running a logging train on your line, it should be running through a rugged mountainous area filled with a ton of trees.  You can also place a sawmill or lumberyard close by.

Some of the small things you add to your landscape are the most important pieces to making it realistic. You should look to add any type of building’s, people, animals and livestock. Rocks, bodies of water including rivers, lakes, ponds, or even waterfalls add a tremendous amount to the look and feel of the scenery. You can also add any type of mountain, tunnel, flowers, brush, power lines or roads. The possibilities are endless.

The main thing to remember when creating your model train railroad is that it is your chance to show of your artistic creativity. Take your time and plan carefully and you will really amaze your friends and families.

The benchwork is the foundation of your railroad.  Train hobbyists have the option of buying an already made benchwork or building one for themselves.  Buying a benchwork kit has several advantages.  Benchwork kits are precut and predrilled.  Plus they are sturdier then a piece of plywood on two sawhorses.  Also, with a kit, you can take it apart to move it to a different location in the house or to bring it to shows.

Of course building your own benchwork is more complicated and takes more time but, you have the opportunity to achieve your perfect vision for your trains.  The first thing you will have to do is to create a design for your layout.  You’ll have to figure out how large you want your benchwork to be.  Consider if you will be adding on to it later on down the road.  How much room in your house do you have to place a train layout?  What shape are you planning for the top or your benchwork?  It can be square, rectangle, oval, or circular.  Typically the legs of the table are 28 inches but they can be altered to meet your designs specifications.  The most important thing in benchworking is making sure that your benchwork is solid and can withstand a certain amount of weight.  A good platform is a 3/8 inch or ½ inch thick piece of plywood.  If you would like your benchwork to remain portable, you can cut the plywood into several pieces before you assemble your benchwork.

Keep perspective in mind when you are building the actual model railroad scenery.  The goal is to make your layout appear larger than it is.  You can try using different levels of scenery to help with this.  Placing larger trees in the foreground and smaller trees in the background or on the tops of mountains helps with this illusion as well.  Your scenery should also reflect the theme your have chosen for your landscape.  For instance, if you are running a logging train on your line, it should be running through a rugged mountainous area filled with a ton of trees.  You can also place a sawmill or lumberyard close by.

Other aspects that you can have in your landscape are tunnels, grassy meadows, fields, rock formations, roads, and bridges.  You can also incorporate towns or villages filled with houses and buildings.  Plus, you should also add fine detail to your scenery.  Fine detail includes signs, telephone poles, fences, underbrush, bushes, flowers, hedges, people, and animals. A really nice touch is including bodies of water like ponds, rivers, streams or even waterfalls.

After all, isn’t one of the reasons we get into model trains is to be able to show off our artistic talent by building dramatic and lifelike landscapes?  So get to work and amaze your friends with your amazing talent.

The question is puzzling as to why we continue to be enthralled with this hobby, even as we grow into adulthood. It is possible that it is because we like to be in control of a machine, even though it is a fraction of the original size. Maybe we have memories of the trains running out the window of the car on family vacations, or the sound of a model train in your living room around the Christmas tree. What ever your reason for enjoying the hobby of model train railroading, one thing is certain – it is no longer a toy but has somehow transitioned into something much more profound then that. It is now a machine, perfect for the boy inside all of us.

When most people think of toy trains, they picture the small plastic variety that are popular around the toy stores and big chain stores. These are generally not very good quality and are made from plastic, not steel. But they do offer a wonderful introduction to young boys to the wonderful hobby of model train railroading. As young boys grow into men, so to do their toys. They eventually transition into locomotives and are made to last for generations. They are made of a much higher quality and construction, with many features and functionalities that are not available on toys. They are built to have solid contact with the track and get the best electrical current possible to insure the smoothest track. They give a very real life experience and have a stronger engine, which means greater pulling capacity. They are heavier and allow for the most real life experience for all those involved.

There are many different types of toy model trains, just as there are many types of real life trains. The most common type of model train is the electric variety. But, many people do not realize that there are also those of the steam engine type available for purchase. There is almost nothing better then the smell and sight of real steam surrounding the landscape and scenery.

Many young boys to grow up and be a real life train conductor, but only a few are able to follow that dream. With certainty, most conductors today simply look at what they do as a job rather then the dream of a little boy. Ws can still have the experience of controlling a train through the wonderful hobby of model train railroading.

What is it that drives men to play with “toys”?  It might be that they are enthralled by the thought of controlling something so powerful even though it is 1/87 of its size.  Maybe it is the puzzle of how trains work; the electricity running through the lines to make it run.  Perhaps it is because trains are so organized; only able to run on its track.  Or maybe it is the memories of seeing the train whistling around the Christmas tree every year that makes us want to relive it through our “toy” trains.  But the word toy is not accurate any longer when talking about model trains.  These toys have grown up into machines and are ready to play with the big boys.

Toy trains are usually the plastic ones that you find on sale while you are Christmas shopping.  They are low quality and priced as a great way to introduce kids to the hobby.  When boys grow up they are called men.  And when toy trains grow up, they are called locomotives.  Locomotives are made to last.  They are higher quality and many lack the “push it slightly to get it to move” feature like lower quality trains have.  Their wheels are made to make greater contact with the track in order to get a better connection to the electricity which will help to get it going.  They are the things that make model railroaders smile.  Plus, locomotives have stronger engines.  A stronger engine means greater pulling power.  A quality locomotive is also made out of metal rather then plastic like toy trains.  The weight of the train has a large effect on how well it works.  The heavier the train, the better it will make contact with the track and therefore, a better running train.

And if electricity wasn’t good enough, the wonderful makers of the model train industry offer steam engines for the little boys inside grown men.  Of course there are a lot of different quality trains on the market that offer steam but, there is nothing better then enjoying these trains with lifelike steam filling their scenery.

Very few boys get to grow up to be able to actually drive a train.  I’m sure that a lot of train drivers look at the work they do as a job rather then a little boy’s life long dream.  But, we don’t have to all grow up to be train drivers to fulfill our dreams.  We can indulge ourselves in the hobby that so many of us love; model trains.

As you plan and think about the size of your model train, the first step is deciding on a scale size that you are interested in. There are many different sizes to choose from, but four of them stand out as generally the most popular, namely G, O, HO and N. The larger scale models are G and O size. G sizes are at a ratio of 1:22, while the O comes in slightly smaller at 1:48. These two models run on what is known as a No. 1 track. HO scale models have a ratio of 1:87, while OT is half the size smaller then the O scale. HO literally means half an O. The next size is the N scale, which has a ratio of 1:160 and is half a size smaller then the HO scale. There are several smaller scales, but again these four are the most popular and easiest to find.

When thinking about the gauge in your model train, this simply refers to the size of the track between the two rails. There are many different manufacturers, so they had to come to a consensus on the standard size so that the trains and track were interchangeable.

Another very important and enjoyable part of the success of your model train display is in the scenery. Hobbyists typically like to customize their scenery and run their trains through unique and different layouts. Some ideas on what you can include in these layouts are mountains, bridges, valleys rock formations, fields or meadows. If you want to provide a “wow” factor to your design, try implementing a water feature like a river, lake, pond or waterfall. Another thing to think about is the track design that you will use. It could be something as simple as a circle, or oval. Or if you are feeling a little ambitious, you could design a figure eight or dogbone type shape. It is very wise to give your track plenty of room on the turns so as not to derail.

As you begin this journey of the model train hobbyist remember to enjoy the experience. One of the best reasons that you could begin a hobby as a model train enthusiast is for the time that it will allow you to spend with your kids or grandchildren.

The scale of a model train refers to the size of a model train to the large real prototype.  The four most popular scales of model trains are G, O, HO, and N.  G scale which has a ratio of 1:22 and the O scale which has a ratio of 1:48 are grouped together into the larger-scale trains category.  They run on a No. 1 track.  HO scale has a ratio of 1:87 and ot is half the size smaller then the O scale.  HO literally stands for half an O.  The N scale has a ratio of 1:160 and is a half a size smaller then the HO scale.  They all have their purposes and good points. Other less popular scales are the S scale, the TT scale and the Z scale.  The S scale has a ratio of 1:64.  TT scale has a ratio of 1:120 which is slightly larger the N scale.  And the Z scale has a ratio of 1:220 which is even smaller the n the N scale.

When model train enthusiasts talk about gauge, they are referring to the size of the track between the two rails of track.  With so many different manufacturers making trains and tracks, they all had to agree upon certain sizes that would make so that trains and tracks were interchangeable.  A standard gauge is usually four feet and eight and a half inches.  A narrow gauge is a term used for rails that are closer together than the standard gauge.  It is usually around three feet to three and a half feet.

Another large aspect of model trains is the sceneries.  Train hobbyist place and run their trains through landscape layouts.  These layouts can be designed and created to fit the vision of the hobbyist.  They are free to include mountains, trees, rock formations, valleys hills or fields and meadows.  A dramatic effect can include bodies of water like ponds, lakes, rivers, streams or even waterfalls.  Figuring out where to pay your track with in your landscape is fun as well as creative.  Your track can be laid in a way that enables your train to be continuously running in a loop.  It can be laid in a basic oval shape, a figure eight, twice around which is two loops or in a dogbone shape.  It is a good idea to lay your track in a wide curve so that the train does not derail.

Building model trains is such a large part of the world of hobbies.  People young and old have gotten caught up in its thrill and excitement.  One of the most exciting parts of building model trains is being able to share the experience with your kids or your grand kids.