Model Train Layouts

Choosing The Right Scale For Your Model Train Layouts

When you start a scale railway you really have to think in terms of how big your set will be in comparison to the real thing. The constraint to the size of the layouts that you can build for your model trains will be the amount of space that you have available for the project.

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In the United Kingdom the most popular scale for model train layouts is ‘OO’ which is built at 1/76th of actual size. Almost all of the starter sets that are available from suppliers such as Hornby are built to ‘OO’. This scale is the equivalent of 4mm of track equates to 1 foot in a decimal/imperial conversion. In the USA the most common scale is ‘HO’ which gives slightly smaller model train layouts than the ‘OO’. The ‘HO’ is built to a scale of 1:87 of actual size. You can get details of all the available scales in the book Model Train Help.

It is generally accepted that a set up of 4’ by 4’ is the minimum size that you operate layouts that incorporate a loop for your model trains if you are using either ‘OO’ or ‘HO’. That said a layout of 6’ by 4’ would offer a significant increase in scope for the enhancement of your model train layouts. If you do not have a space equivalent to 24 square foot available then you may consider going for an N scale set up. N scale is made at 1/160th of actual size and only requires half the space of an ‘OO’ to get the same setup. The problem of course of having model train layouts this small is that they can get very fiddly and may become too difficult to work with for some people to work with.

A good place to get ideas for your model train layouts is at your local or regional model railway exhibitions. There will often be a number of model train layouts on display and typically these will be operated by the builder which gives you the perfect opportunity to quiz them about specific details if you think something they have done could enhance your railway. Another research opportunity exists from other train enthusiats blogs. You can get a weekly dose of the best blog posts via our newsletter. Click here for free sign up.

After you have completed your research into the model train layouts and decided on your key features then you should map the proposed railway plan and establish what scale of railway is appropriate to accommodate your model train layouts. Once you have decided upon which size you are going to use for your set then you should look at constructing a table on which to house the set. Typically a series of softwood legs will be used with plywood backboards that are designed to fit the track plan. The height and general depth of track is often decided by the enthusiast depending on who is going to make use of the set. Clearly a set that has a large depth to it may not be appropriate if it is intended that children would make use of the set.

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As you can see there are a lot of factors to take into account when designing your model train layouts. If cost is a factor then ‘OO’ or ‘HO’ should be considered as these are the most popular scales in their respective countries and consequently accessories will be cheaper than other scales. If, however, you are looking to maximise your space and give an excellent experience to users then taking into account the tips above should help you to continuously construct excellent model train layouts. You can find further information on building your own model train layouts in the book Model Train Help.

7 Model Train Mistakes To Avoid

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