Michael Weston questioned:


Collecting model railroad trains is a very well loved leisure activity for men, women and children. Due to the cost associated with collecting model trains it is vital to educate oneself on the technicalities associated with the proper scale and gauge and other fascists of the leisure activity before making a substantial investment in both time and money.

First and foremost what you must learn about is the scale system associated with the various sizes of model trains. Basically the term scale is used to denote the size of the model train, which is the ratio of the model train to the actual full size train used for human purposes.

The smallest of these scale spectrums is 1:220 known as the Z scale. The G scale is the largest and its ratio is 1:8. Model train collectors will be able to find a plethora of scales to choose from with the most well loved being the HO scale. The G, N and Z are also among the most well loved ones, also.

Many people will want to collect the larger scales since the perception is that you can place more detail into the locomotive, cars and bench work layout. I tend to disagree! I believe that all the scales deserve their rightful place and that the detail depends more on the manufacturer than on the size of the scale. I like the HO scale because it lends itself into allowing me to build the layout that I like with the limited amount of space that I have available.

Those with extremely limited space may want to consider the Z scale since it is the smallest. Some people consider the Z to be a poor value for collecting because they feel the details are to small to appreciate. I believe the beauty is in the eyes of the beholder and that the scale that best fits your taste as well as space should be a factor in determining which type you will choose.

I will say that the G looks fantastic at all the model train shows. Because of it’s size it seems to look so realistic. Unfortunately it is also like trying to park a bus in your garage. For most of us it just overwhelms the space we have available and it really limits the multi-track, multi-train concept. Some people will set them up in their garden due to the size. This can be very risky.

Many new collectors get caught up in terminology especially the difference between scale and gauge. So, lets keep it simple. Scale deals with the size of the model train to the actual size of a working train. Gauge deals with the size of the track. The size of the scale will help you determine the gauge. Check with your local store to get more information.

Collecting the model train and all of the various cars is fun, but the real fun is getting the perfect layout for your bench work and setting up an ascetically pleasing track and topography. Getting the perfect train station, cities, countryside, mountains and tunnels is what will make your collection of model trains really sing. The model railroad you build is truly a piece of functioning art.

Your layout will help you determine what types of locomotive and cars to collect. The topography of your layout will look even better with a collection that is accentuated with the effects of weather that coincides with your bench work.

Check out a local model train show to determine the best scale and gauge for you and your budget. Do a small research and get started straight away because this leisure activity is a lifetime of enjoyment and something of pride that you can leave for generations to come. Welcome to the club of collecting and building model trains and model railroads.