The HO Scale Model Train provides an optimal balance between size and detail.  Key to a successful layout is the benchwork and track planning.  Benchwork refers to the structure or foundation of the model railroad.  Two popular types of benchwork for model trains include L girder and open grid.  Track planning refers to the drawing or map of the train layout, showing tracks and how they are connected.  It may also include the scenery and terrain

Why emphasize these concepts up front?  For many HO scale model train hobbyists, the model railroad is used to simulate as many operations of a real railroad within the limitations of a model environment.  Effective benchwork and track planning contribute to a successful model train setup.

Benchwork

This foundation for the railroad is often found as variations on 4’ by 8’ sections, the dimensions of a standard sheet of plywood.  But creating benchwork in 30” x 60” modules screwed together allows these sections to be easily moved and fit through standard doorways.  This also allows for easy reach from the front of the benchwork.

Connect modules or sections together using screws accessible from below rather than nails and glue.  This will provide flexibility in changing or moving your layout.  There’s nothing more disappointing than the realization that one must destroy an entire layout rather than move it.  Avoid particle board, homasote, or OSB (oriented-stranded board) for benchtops.  The wood is dense, heavy, and difficult to work with.  Seasoned wood will help avoid warping or bending.  And a coat of paint will help protect the surface.

To add realism to your model railroad layout, consider setting the height at chest or shoulder level unless you want it to be easily visible to children.  You may wish to install sections with slightly different elevations unless the scene dictates a single level.  But keep grades under 3%, preferably 2%.  The grade is the rise divided by the run (a 3 inch rise over 100 inches is 3%).

Track Planning

For many HO scale model train hobbyists, track planning is about realism balanced with available space.  Some modelers prefer to work with table style layouts, others prefer an around the walls style for long straight-aways and broad curve.  And others create double-deck layouts to maximize space.

Design the track plan before nailing track in-place.  Remember to position yards and sidings near the front of the benchwork for easy access and better viewing.  But leave some space in front and behind the track for scenery.  Too much track in too little of a space squeezes out the realism of scenery and structures.  If the track plan leaves little margin for error, it might be best to layout the track in advance before attaching it to the landscape.

When planning track, prioritize and consider some of the key features of the layout.  Multiple turnouts with different types of siding, passing, facing-point, and stub-end, should be considered.  Consider at least one stub-end siding near the edge of the table for parking and manually moving equipment to storage. Don’t feel try to have enough track to store all cars and locomotives.  Excess equipment can be stored nearby on shelves.

Consider arranging at least one layout for continuous train operation.  While real railroads don’t run in circles, continuous operation in a limited space is a plus.  But for additional realism, you may choose to arrange some sidings in a point-to-point configuration.

In summary, effective planning goes a long way in adding realism to the HO scale model train.  For best results with any scale model trains, identify your priorities, consider the alternatives, and create a plan before construction.  You’ll be pleased with the results.

Tip 1 – Learn From Others.  The best advice I’ve been given for getting started in any new activity is to learn from others.  Spend your time and money wisely by first learning from the successes and failures of others.  How many of us know someone who jumped into something new, spent a lot of money, and then had disappointing result because they jumped right in without looking?

With model trains, there are lots of opportunities to learn.  To start quickly, consider an online eBook.  eBooks can be immediately purchased online and best of all, they can be easily searched.  The library offers numerous resources on model trains, ho scale, o scale, or whichever scale you choose. Another great resource is your local hobby club or hobby store.  And finally, don’t forget magazines and books.

Tip 2 – Get Started.  Taking tip 1 too far results in never getting started.  The challenge is to balance our need to understand the basics with the need to learn from experience.  Each of us has a unique point in our learning where we’re comfortable getting started.  This leads us to tips 3 and 4.

Tip 3 – Start Inexpensive.  One of the great characteristics of model trains is that your options range from inexpensive to expensive.  Starting inexpensive minimizes your risk as you explore your new hobby.   HO scale starter kits from a hobby store or mass market retailer are a great way to try out the hobby with a complete configuration but without breaking the bank.  For example, you may find that you particularly enjoy the operations angle or collector’s perspective on model trains.  As a result, you’ll want to slightly change your focus from your original plans.

Tip 4 – Start Small and Grow.  Model train starter sets are a great way to get started.  They provide a complete kit to which you can easily start to add rolling stock, track, and other equipment.

Tip 5 – Visit a Hobby Store.  Why visit a model train hobby store if you’re not ready to buy?  You’ll find that well stocked hobby stores will give you lots of ideas, not just to get started but to grow your hobby over time.  Hobby stores stock model trains, HO scale, N scale, and other equipment that may spark an idea.  Spend time at a hobby store and imagine where the hobby will take you.  And hobby shops are a natural gathering place for enthusiasts, helping you learn from others.

Tip 6 – Move off the Floor.  While it’s easy to start on the floor, you’ll quickly find that moving onto a table is a big improvement.  The floor is fraught with danger for model trains, HO scale, from accidental damage to debris.  It’s easier to try track arrangements on a bench.  Plus, you’ll quickly find that it’s more comfortable for your set to be on a table so you can use a chair or stool.

Tip 7 – Start and Finish a Project.  How many of us have started projects never to finish?  Or we have too many projects going and nothing gets done.  Start your project, whether it’s a building, a car kit, or some scenery, and continue until it’s complete without worrying about perfection.  If the finished project is not quite what you expected, try again.

Tip 8 – Start With a Published Track Plan. For most of us, it just makes more sense to build our first layout from a plan.  And start simple.  Customize and add complexity as you gain experience and knowledge.

Tip 9 – Enjoy.  Sometimes we forget that model trains, ho scale or any other scale, is a hobby.  Have fun!  Smile if something doesn’t quite end up as you planned. And remember that there is no right or wrong to model trains.

Scale indicates the size of model trains in relation to the size of the actual train. G, O, HO, and N are the most typical designations of scales for model trains. The bigger model railroads are generally classified as G scale which has a 1:22 ratio, and O scale which has a 1:48 ratio. A number 1 track is required for these model railroads. With a ratio of 1:87, the HO scale trains are 50% the size of O scale trains. HO is an acronym meaning “half an O”. The smallest of the popular scales is the N scale, which is 1:160 and 50% tinier than the HO scale trains. Each scale of train is useful in its own way. Some other train scales like the Z, TT and S scales, are not as prevalent. S Scale trains have a 1:65 ratio. Marginally bigger than N scale model trains are the TT scale model railroads at a 1:120 ratio. The smallest scale of all, at a ratio of 1:220, are Z scale trains, even tinier than the N scales.

Gauge, on the other had, is used to indicate the track size located in the middle of the two rails. Since a multitude of companies make tracks and trains, a common gauge had to be agreed upon in order for the tracks and trains to work with all makes and models. The typical gauge for trains is fifty-six and 1/2 inches. The term “narrow gauge” indicates rails nearer each other than in typical gauge railroad systems. Generally, they are approximately 36 to 42 inches wide. N/A

Backdrops for model trains are an additional component. People who collect trains enjoy creating scenes through which their trains travel. Nearly all individual interests of train collectors can be recreated in the backdrops. Some popular scenes employ flat lands, trees, rocks, mountainous terrain, valleys, peaks, and other natural items. Some people like to put water scenes in their layouts to create a diverse landscape. Deciding where to lay out your train set around your scene takes imagination and is fun. You can set your train up so that it runs in a continuous circuit throughout the layout. You can employ a traditional oval set-up, a set-up that uses a double-loop that crosses in the middle, or in an irregular shaped set-up. You will want to put your rails in an expanded curve in order to keep the train on the track.

Construction of model trains is a huge area of interest in all populations. Kids and adults both have been known to enjoy model railroads. A great benefit to constructing model trains is mutually enjoying the fascinating and entertaining hobby alongside the future generations in your family.

Why Outdoor Garden Railroading?

• Outdoor LGB G scale trains add a dramatic enhancement to your backyard landscaping. The layout isn’t hidden in a basement.

• Garden railroading such as LGB model trains can be much more than laying track at ground level. One has many more landscaping and scenery options than an indoor layout. Add exciting and real features such as water, landscaping, rock, and gardens.

• The larger 1:22.5 scale of garden model trains requires more space than smaller scale trains for intriguing layouts.

Why LGB Model Trains?

• Larger scale equipment is often easier to work with. G scale trains are 1:22.5 scale, versus HO scale model trains which are 1:87 scale.
• LGB equipment is recognized as a leader in overall quality. LGB often provides more proven quality and reliable operation.
• LGB G scale trains are designed for the rougher conditions of outdoor layouts.
• LGB locomotives can include sound, smoke, and lights for greater realism.

Indoors Versus Outdoors

• While LGB and garden G scale trains may be designed for the outdoors, most people bring their trains indoors when not running. Weather, particularly the sun’s ultraviolet light, contributes to wear on the equipment. Of course the infrastructure, including track and buildings, are intended to remain outdoors.

• Snow in Northern latitudes adds to the realism of an LGB G Scale Trains. Remove snow from the tracks by hand, or consider using the train with a plow or wedge.

• Consider running LGB model trains through an opening so they can be parked indoors when not in use.

Landscaping and Scenery

• Raise the roadbed above ground level to simplify maintenance and make your layout more pleasing to view.

• A popular way to raise the roadbed is to use retaining wall blocks and backfill with dirt and gravel. Or instead of blocks, consider pressure treated landscape timbers.

• Low maintenance plastic lumber as commonly used for decks is ideal for outdoor layouts. It’s strong, flexible, weather resistant, and safer than chemically treated wood. Yet you can cut it and build structures such as ramps and bridges.

• Don’t forget to plan the garden around your layout.

• Consider using a rock garden for a portion of your scenery.

• Use crushed gravel instead of round pea gravel to minimize shifting of roadbed.

• Use landscape fabric under the gravel or dirt to block weeds.

• There are lots of options for creating inexpensive scenery. For example, consider converting birdfeeders to model buildings.

• Add lighting to the layout with solar garden lights or a string of outdoor lights for a great evening effect.

• Use dwarf or miniature plant species to complement the railroad scale.

LGB G scale trains offer a compelling option for outdoor, garden trains. Instead of hiding the layout in a basement, LGB model trains add a considerable attraction to one’s backyard space.

While the original company was founded in 1833 in Philadelphia, Bachmann started producing model trains only in the late 1960’s. The company first introduced N scale train products in 1968, gradually adding support for the popular HO, On30, OO, HOn30, and G model train scales. Today, Bachmann Trains are part of the Chinese owned Kader Group which produces the Bachmann product line in China.

Earlier versions of Bachmann Trains prior the early 1990’s tended to appeal more as toys then collectors items for the serious hobbyist. Care must be taken when purchasing older Bachmann trains as many of the earlier trains didn’t have the durability a hobbyist may expect. However, newer, more modern Bachmann trains have improved and are recognized as high quality. For example, in 1988 Bachmann introduced the Spectrum line of trains with improved motors, more realistic paint, and more defined detail. This line of trains for HO scale, N scale, On30 scale, and G scale is considered to be of high quality.

Bachmann Trains® has grown in part through acquisition of brands and as such has a diverse product line of trains and accessories as follows:

Bachmann Trains®: The primary collection of locomotives, rolling stock, accessories, and train sets for a range of popular model train scales.

Bachmann Big Haulers®: A full collection of G scale (also known as LGB scale) model train equipment. Bachmann G scale trains are typically sturdy trains that can stand up to outdoor elements. G scale model trains are typically designed for either indoor or outdoor use. Bachmann is the second largest maker of G scale model trains.

Plasticville® U.S.A.: A collection of accessories for model train scenery, including buildings, train stations, and bridges, available in both HO and O scale.

Williams®: Now owned by Bachmann Trains, Williams Trains includes a diverse line of locomotives, sets, and track designed for O scale on 3-rail track.

Spectrum®: A collection of locomotives, tenders, and sets across several train scales.

E-Z Command®: Digital Command Control (DCC) controllers, decoders, and accessories. DCC systems are used to independently control one or more locomotives on the same section of track. Bachmann DCC systems are National Model Railroad Association (NMRA) compliant.

E-Z Track System®: A track and roadbed system for HO and N scale model trains. The track includes roadbed and is available in nickel silver or steel alloy metals. Note that nickel silver track is more expensive, but has high conductivity plus is rust and corrosion resistant for better performance. Bachmann manufacturers one of the widest variety of track pieces available.

SceneScapes®: A collection of trees, miniature figures, and landscape materials for many train scales.

Bachmann model trains have evolved from toy trains in the late 1960’s to the largest volume manufacturer of model trains today. The company has a worldwide presence with a full line of products ranging from starter sets to high quality stock. As a result, Bachmann model trains can be found at diverse retail and hobby stores.

The size O is the most popular choice for large-scale trains. The O scale is 1/48th. This means the model is 1/48th the size of an actual train. The gauge used for the O model train is 1 1/4 inches. These bigger model trains are often used in outdoor settings, such as gardens. Of course, train enthusiasts have endless preferences for their individual train layouts.

Another popular size model is built on the HO gauge, which is half the size of the O scale. HO literally stands for “Half of O.” The scale of the HO model train is 1/87, model size to actual size. The standard track gauge of 16.5mm is used for HO trains. Many model train layouts are designed for the popular HO model train. The designs of these layouts are small enough to combine imaginative scenery pieces with well-placed track in a convenient amount of space. Though not overly large, they are big enough to allow for plenty of fine detail on the pieces, especially the higher-quality models. The HO model train is big enough for children to handle without risking the loss or damage of any small train parts. As the HO scale bridges the gap between the detail of larger scales and the limited space requirements of smaller scales, it is an especially prized railroad line in the view of many train lovers.

HO scale models were created in the United Kingdom in the 1930s. They were developed for train lovers seeking an alternative to the OO scale. But the OO scale had found a special niche in the UK, so it was difficult for the HO model trains to gain commercial traction. Fortunately, during the late 1950s American train hobbyists were seeking more realistic model trains, which lead to high sales of the HO model train throughout the 1960s and on through to the present day. The HO is the most popular scale in model trains.

Due to its popularity, the HO model train scale comes complete with a wide variety of locomotives, set pieces, accessories and rolling stock, all manufactured by many different companies. HO model train sets come complete with ready-to-run trains and modular track, high-quality kits for craftsmen, model building supplies, and even highly detailed limited-edition brass locomotives. Devoted hobbyists will search the global markets as well as domestic companies for supplies, in order to get the exact piece they are looking for to finish off a train layout.

So if your imagination allows you to create a broad landscape with rolling hills or a small town with all the necessary attractions for the toy townspeople, HO scale model trains may be the best choice for you. Your friends will be amazed when they see your stunning locomotive winding along the track, through scenic tunnels and hills. In many respects, the HO scale model train is the ideal scale for your model train layout.

Today, the world of model railway trains has grown into an enormously popular hobby, with a long list of clubs, hobbyists, special interests, providers, and equipment. In fact, given all of the choices, the challenge for many new to the hobby is getting started. And the hobby has a terminology all its own. Terms such as benchwork, gauge, reverse loop, scale, and mainline all take a little time to become familiar.

But the wide spectrum of model railway trains allows hobbyists to specialize in an area of interest. Model railroading is a hobby that includes a wide range of interests and specialties. Some hobbyists prefer to focus more as “collectors”, acquiring equipment of a specific type, railway, operation, or other characteristic. Many hobbyists seek to acquire and build a railway layout of interest. And on the far end of the spectrum are hobbyists that seek to take their model layouts to the full extreme of realism. These hobbyists seek to recreate specific railway operations, that is purposefully moving trains and cars to emulate actual railroad jobs.

So what are some of the key terms of model railway trains and what do they indicate? Let’s start with choices in the scale. Scale is most simply defined as the size of the model train as compared to actual size. For example, the very popular HO scale is 1:87 or 1 / 87th of actual size. So 1 inch of HO scale track is equivalent to 7 feet 4 inches of actual size track. Larger scale sizes, such as the G or garden scale models are easier to work with but require more space. Smaller scale sizes, such as the N scale model railway trains are more difficult to work with due to their small size, but allow for more sophisticated track layouts within a smaller space.

The gauge of the track corresponds to the scale. Gauge refers to the distance between the track rails. Smaller scale models have smaller gauge track. Another common term is benchwork, referring to the structure supporting the model train layout. Most beginners start with a flat layout. However, railroads aren’t flat in the real world, and thus the benchwork may allow for more complex terrain and railroad grades. For many, much of their interest in model railroading is creating the benchwork, track layouts, and scenery to create a realistic representation of a real railroad operation.

Model railway trains have evolved dramatically from their humble origins with Marklin in the late 1800’s to a very complex and sophisticated hobby accessible to a wide variety of hobbyists. There is a wide variety of choices in the hobby to suit the interests of numerous hobbyists. So where does one start? There are numerous resources to get started. One can read articles or books, visit hobby shops, attend shows, meet with enthusiasts to learn about the exciting world of model railway trains.

Hornby enjoys a lengthy and popular history. Meccano Ltd, the predecessor to the modern day “Hornby Hobbies” company, was founded in 1908 by Frank Hornby to manufacture model toys. Mr. Hornby had received a patent for ‘Improvements in Toy or Educational Devices for Children and Young People’ in 1901. Meccano began with an educational set Hornby created for schools. Meccano then released their first train, branded as Hornby, in 1920.

For many, Hornby model trains are synonymous with their popular product line of OO gauge trains called ‘Hornby Dublo’. This 1:76.2 scale collection (4 mm to 1 foot) of locomotives, carriages, and wagons was produced from 1938 to 1963. It ran on 12 vdc utilizing a 3-rail track. While the OO gauge of the Honby Dublo remained popular in England, much of the rest of the world adopted HO gauge. In addition, Hornby is associated with another popular line of model trains called Tri-ang Hornby. Both lines of Hornby model trains remain popular with collectors and enthusiasts.

Today, Hornby Hobbies of Kent, UK produces a wide range of models for OO and N gauge trains, including a full line of OO gauge locomotives, rolling stock and controllers. Complementing these models are their Skaledale line of buildings, autos, scenics, and track accessories. Hornby also produces a line of buildings for N scale called Lyddle End.

The history of Hornby and the OO scale also includes controversy. Both the OO scale and HO scale use the same gauge track. However, this 16.5 mm gauge track is accurate for the HO scale of 1:87. Thus for OO scale, the models are scaled at 1:76 while the track is scaled for 1:87. This inconsistency in scale has generated controversy among some enthusiasts, claiming that OO gauge trains are inherently out of scale. Regardless, for many the satisfaction of working with OO gauge far outweighs any debate over inaccuracies in scale.

While prized by both collectors and enthusiasts, Hornby model trains and the OO scale are just one small part of the diverse world of model trains. While Hornby Dublo and Tri-ang trains are popular with collectors, Hornby continues to change with the times. Today, Hornby provides a wide range of OO and N gauge kits, trains, and accessories. For example, the Hornby Flying Scotsman with live steam is a popular feature of the product line. Hornby model trains and its associated OO scale continues to appeal to many model train hobbyists.

O scale was invented around 1900 by the German toy manufacturer Marklin. These early toy model trains were centered more on play value than realism. The O scale quickly became a popular scale in model railroading. In fact, after the Great Depression in the United States, O scale model trains became the default model train standard. Early O scale track consisted of three rails. However, today the O scale is available in both two and three track configurations (the third, inside rail, is used for power). Over time, as hobbyists focused on realism and operations, HO scale and N scale model trains have surpassed the O scale in popularity. Yet the O scale remains a popular and widely used scale, particularly with starter sets.

What are O scale model trains? Scale refers to the ratio between model size and actual size. However, the actual scale varies slightly by region! In the United States, O scale model trains are 1:48 scale railroads. But in England, O scale is produced at 1:43.5 scale. And in Europe O scale represents yet another scale, 1:45. As a result, there is no common, consistent scale and gauge for all O scale model trains. So be aware of differences in compatibility when shopping for O scale model train equipment.

What do the variations such as O-27 scale represent? Actually there are several closely related O scale track options. If standard O scale model train track is laid out in a circle, the diameter is 31 inches. As a result, regular O scale model track is sometimes referred to as O-31 track. On the other hand, O-27 scale track forms a tighter, 27 inch diameter curve if laid out in a circle. The most common O scale track comes in a number of sizes, including O-27, O-31 (standard), O-42, O-54, and O-72 variations. Each variation refers to the diameter of the curve if laid out in a circle. One can get more track in a smaller space with the tighter curved track, but the tradeoff is realism and difficulty for some full-sized O cars to successfully negotiate the curves. However, the advantage of these options is that some hobbyists mix and match track to achieve their desired track layout.

While not as popular as HO scale N scale, O scale model trains have recently enjoyed increased popularity. As a result, many major manufacturers provide numerous O scale equipment options, including complete starter sets. Plus, the realism of O scale model trains has improved since the early 1990’s. Inconsistent O scale standards add to confusion with this scale. It’s important for hobbyists to be aware of regional differences in model scale coupled with two or three rail track configurations. Yet O scale and O-27 scale model trains remain a popular choice among hobbyists whose focus is on the simplicity and rewards of running model trains.

Why do grown men find it so satisfying to play with “toy model trains”? Even though model trains are 1/87 of the size of true trains, the sheer thought of controlling something like a train may be what captures the imagination of a man. Or the maze of electrically charged tracks could serve as a sort of puzzle that men delight in trying to figure out. It may be that toy model trains seem very methodical since they can only run on their tracks. The reasons could even lie in long-forgotten memories of Christmastime, when a little boy would watch with glee as a train chugged around the Christmas tree, whistling and sometimes even puffing out little bursts of actual steam. However, these days model trains are quite different from toy trains. Toy model trains are intended for children; model trains are meant for boys grown into men.

It is easy to spot toy model trains; they are plentiful at Christmastime, as many people still like to set them up around the tree for children to play. Inexpensive and built of plastic or another low-quality yet durable material, many children are introduced to the hobby of toy model trains through playing with toy trains. Boys inevitably grow up to be men. When toy trains “grow up,” they are referred to as locomotives. Locomotives are built to stand the test of time. Lacking the need to push slightly to get the train going on its track, these are higher quality than toy trains. The wheels are specifically designed to make better contact with the track, which provides their “fuel” through the magic of electrical currents. These are the ones that bring smiles to the faces of model railroad fans. You will also find that locomotives possess more powerful engines. Obviously, the more powerful the engine, the greater the ability to haul a big load. In contrast to toy trains which are fashioned from plastic, locomotives are made of metal. The ability of toy model trains to move smoothly over the tracks is largely determined by their total weight. Heavier toy trains will make better contact with their tracks, producing smoother, faster running toy model trains.

Steam engines are becoming more popular in the model train industry for those who decide that electric trains may not be quite “real” enough for them. Many different model trains offer some sort of steam effect, but the trick is finding one that offers a truly realistic version of steam that, like a real locomotive, billows from the engine.

The number of little boys who actually end up driving trains as an adult is very low. And it is likely that a lot of train drivers take their work for granted after a while; they forget that it is the fulfillment of a lifelong fantasy for many little boys. Fortunately, for those of us who love trains, we don’t have to become train drivers in order to indulge ourselves. Instead, we can fulfill that dream by pursuing a hobby with the next best thing: model trains.