Why HO Scale Model Trains Remain Popular

Not every model train hobbyist likes exactly the same kind of trains or layouts. There are enthusiasts who prefer outdoor layouts with large scale garden trains, model train lovers who dedicate their entire attic or basement to their model railroads and build large and intricately detailed layouts. Then there is the rest of us – train lovers who want to enjoy model trains, but do not have the kind of space needed to make these bigger indoor or outdoor layouts while still hoping to be able to make some creative layouts for our trains. Thankfully, there are many choices for model train lovers, with trains and tracks being available in any size you could want.

O scale trains are one of the most popular sizes. These trains offer a lot of detail, being in a size ratio of 1:48 to real life trains and running on 1 ¼” gauge track. While these are one of the larger sizes, they are smaller than the G scale model trains often used for outdoor layouts – O scale are a smaller alternative to these trains which is suitable for indoor or outdoor use, but do take up a significant amount of space.

If you’d like something a little smaller, but still nicely detailed, you’re after an Ho Model Train. About half the size of O scale trains, at about 1:87 of a real one, HO stands for half O. These use standard gauge train tracks, and are very easy to find. They’re a very popular choice for floor layouts, and are suitable for creative ones that use plenty of track, but they don’t take up too much space. They’re still big enough to be durable, too.

These trains offer a good balance of the detail of the larger scales of train and the smaller space requirement of the tiny models such as N scale trains. Because of this, they have managed to remain the most popular scale. This scale did not become popular overnight; when they were first introduced to hobbyists in the UK in the 1930s, they failed to catch on due to the popularity of OO scale trains.

Once they were introduced to the US market in the 1950s, they quickly became a favorite. As of now, this is the scale of choice for around 65% of model train hobbyists.

As the most popular model train scale, HO scale trains are the easiest to find in shops. There are also a wider range of tracks and accessories as well as kits and layouts available for these trains, since just about every model train manufacturer makes trains and accessories in this size.

If you would like to enjoy model railroading without taking up a lot of space in your home, but want the fine detail or larger model trains and the ability to make your own creative layouts, HO scale trains are more than likely the best choice for you. *If you want great tips on model railroading CLICK HERE !*