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Guide to Model Railroad Toys Size and Scale from G to Z
One of the first things new model railroad enthusiasts learn is the terminology. Things like scale and gauge become everyday lingo. We’ve outlined some of the most popular scales used for these popular model toys. Keep reading and before long, you’ll be an old hand with all things model toys.
First things first, let’s define scale as it’s used in reference to model railroads: Scale is the proportion to an actual size train or its prototype; the smaller the scale, the more you can fit into your allocated model train area.
G Scale – 1:22.5 – G scale is most often used in garden layouts and is sometimes referred to as an LGB scale. It’s ideal for those who appreciate gardening and landscaping.
O Scale – 1:48 – Although similar to the O27 scale, there are a few differences which we’ll outline below. If your goal is to keep the proportions as realistic as possible, you should consider a large area to build around this scale. The trains are bigger than all other scales except for G scale, and incorporate DC currents.
O27 Scale – 1:48 – Similar to O scale, O27 is differentiated by the curves in the tracks. The O 27’s area is a 27″ arc or circle while the standard O Scale will encompass 31″. Another significant difference is the 27’s shorter and thinner rails. This is a particularly popular scale since there are so many accessories available that are life like and have working parts.
S Scale – 1:64 – It’s been said the S scale isn’t quite as popular as many of the others; however, many of us are sentimental and are drawn to this particular scale since it’s what we’re most familiar with from our childhoods.
HO Scale – 1:87 – Another popular scale, the HO is 1/87th in terms of comparison to the real thing. Its size is considered ideal and easily works on standard plywood sizes. This is another scale that offers a lot in accessories.
TT Scale – 1:120 – Many tend to avoid this scale simply because suppliers of accessories aren’t plentiful.
N Scale – 1:160 – Not the smallest scale, but very close. That said, it’s a popular scale for model toys since it’s perfect for those with limited space. Its size is half of what the HO offers. Like long curves and a lot of scenery? This might be your best option.
Z Scale – 1:120 – This is the smallest sized trains, but ideal for really tight spaces or smaller bedrooms. Another strong point the Z scale brings to the table is its ease of transportation.
With just a little consideration and thought about how you intend to incorporate your model railroad into the available space, you can easily choose the best scale for your needs.
Joe Kanooga is a father of two kids, a successful business owner and the author of numerous articles about model railroad toys. Click here to download a free railroad model toys guidebook filled with hobby tips, ideas and information.
Model Railroading from A to Z
A is for Atlas Model Railroad Company, the New Jersey based manufacturer of N, HO, and O scale trains, track, and accessories.
B is for Bachman, the Philadelphia based manufacturer of N, HO, and On30 scale trains, track, and accessories including the Plasticville® line.
C is for Caboose, which any good freight train needs at the end.
D is for Diesel, which some of the real locomotives use for fuel.
E is for Electricity, which most model trains use for power.
F is for Freight Train, which have boxcars and other rolling stock to carry goods.
G is for G Scale, (1:22.5) which are the huge (or Gross) model trains that can even be run in the Garden.
H is for H0 Scale, (1:87) which stands for “Half of O” and is the most popular scale for model railroaders.
I is for Impossible, which is what having too many trains is.
J is for Junction, where two things meet and is in many great names for model railway towns.
K is for Kit, which most scenery buildings come disassembled in.
L is for Lionel, the iconic maker of O scale trains.
M is for Model Railroading, which is building replica of a real life railroad system in reduced size.
N is for N Scale, (1:148 to 1:160) which are very small trains that allow for a big layout in a small space.
O is for O Scale, (1/48) which are big trains made popular in the USA by Lionel.
P is for Passenger Train, which carry people and ideally have sleek cars with big windows.
Q is for Quandry, which Q provides for this list.
R is for Roundhouse, where the locomotives sleep.
S is for Switch, which make the trains take different paths around the tracks.
T is for Track, which no model railroader can have enough of.
U is for Union Pacific, which is the largest and oldest railroad network in the USA.
V is for Vision, which all great layouts start out as.
W is for Weathering, where you take a brand new model and make it look older.
X is for X, which crossing tracks resemble.
Y is for Y, which most switch tracks resemble.
Z is for Z Scale, (1:220) which are tiny trains that allow for a big layout in a small space.
Check out my Model Railroading Site with listings of local hobby shops, model railroading clubs, railraoding museums, and more.
I’m a freelance PHP and MySQL programmer living in the San Carlos neighborhood of San Diego with my wife and our 3 cats. I enjoy hiking, reading, gardening, watching too much television, and other nerdy activites.
