N Gauge Model Trains

There are a lot of different model train scales which hobbyists have to choose from. If you’re interested in model trains but don’t have a lot of space to devote to this pursuit, then N gauge trains are a size you may want to have a closer look at. N Scale Model Trains are significantly smaller than the O and HO scale trains which usually come to mind when you think about model trains; this scale is designed for hobbyists who don’t have a lot of room to spare and because of their smaller size, elaborate layouts can be built in a very small space. A fairly extensive N scale layout can be made on a work bench which is 8 feet by four feet and even smaller. The N in N scale stands for nine, which is the number of millimeters between the rails on the tracks these trains run on. Constructed in a ratio of 1:160 to the real trains they
represent, N scale trains are about half the size of the popular HO scale (1:87).

Even though they’re somewhat less popular than the larger O and HO scales, N scale trains are the most popular of the smaller scales and the cars, tracks and other accessories are widely available.  While the trains may be small, the size does not mean sacrificing detail; many of these trains are actually more detailed than are their larger counterparts. You may choose N scale trains even if space is not at a premium for you; the smaller size of these trains allows you to build very elaborate layouts in the same space a larger scale would require for a very basic setup.

N gauge trains are also ideal for people who like to run long trains with many cars. N trains are much lighter than bigger models, both for engines as well as the cars themselves, so you can run a really long line of cars if you want, without loosing power as you would with larger scales. Many also choose this scale because of its small size and portability. There are portable workbenches that fit can be taken apart and moved around, and the light weight of this size train make moving it from place to place a lot easier.

You can find trains and accessories in this scale from many different manufacturers, with Bachmann and Lionel being the most popular. There are some excellent starter kits from Bachmann you may want to try, such as Bachmann’s Prairie Flyer Set. This set includes coach cars, an old fashioned combine, a 4-4-0 steam locomotive with tender and enough EZ track to build a 34″ by 24″ oval; and it’s available for under 0 from many online and brick and mortar retailers, despite its list price of 7.

There are many scenery packages as well as many more styles and sets to choose from when it comes to N gauge trains. These include trees and other plants, plus many buildings, vehicles, and little figurines. You can find an abundance of websites that sell this gauge and many others, and you can also check with your local hobby shop. If you want to see what kinds of layouts can be created, there are many examples online to help give you plenty of ideas. There are even books available to help you create some of the best layouts imaginable. These include all the list of parts you will need, as well as great advice.