The Meaning of Model Train Scale

When you say you are modeling in HO scale what does scale mean and what is the difference between scales and gauge? In model trains began with what was called Carpet Railways. These were built usually out of brass, and were basically a boiler on wheels. The boiler was filled with water and the burner was lit. The engine ran until it ran out of fuel or hit a piece of furniture sometimes turning over and spilling flaming fuel over the floor. These trains had no scale they were whatever size the modeler made them. Electric trains appeared around the turn of the 20th century, but these trains still had no certain size or scale. Even after manufacturers began making commercially produced model there was a difference between model sizes according to the maker. It could be very frustrating to buy the track and maybe the rolling stock from one company saying it was O scale, and buying the locomotive from another manufacture as an O scale. You get the locomotive home and it would not fit your track.

The NMRA (National Model Railroad Association) was formed in 1935 in the USA. They started trying to get a standard set of rules set up to govern the manufacturing of model trains. Also the MOROP was founded in Genoa Italy in 1954 that began setting standards for European manufacturers. The scale of a model is usually defined by the ratio of the model to the real prototype. For example, Z scale in the USA has a ratio of 1:220, with N scale being 1:160, and HO scale 1:87 ratio. Even with these rules in affect there are still some differences in scale. In O scale the ratio can range from 1:43.5 for models in Great Britain and France to 1:45 in Germany and in the USA the ratio is 1:48. Even though you have these different scales in the O, they all run on the same gauge of track 1.25 inches between rails. The chart below gives you an idea of gauge and scale.

Gauge Designation

Space Between Rails

Scale
(fractional equivalent)

Standard**

2.125″ (54mm)

1:24**

1.75″ (45mm)

1:22.5 or 1:20.3

No. 1

1.75″ (45mm)

1:29 or 1:32

O**

1.25″ (32mm)*

1:48**

Proto-48

1.169″ (43mm)

1:48

.875″ (22.5mm)

1:64

3/4″ (19mm)

1:76

.650″ (16.5mm)

1:87

.471″ (12mm)

1:120

.354″ (9mm)

1:160

.256″ (6mm)

1:220

* O gauge measures from the center of the two outside rails.

** These gauges of track are used by toy trains without much attention to scale. Closest approximations would be as shown, though they can vary quite a bit.

So you see that there is a big difference between scale and gauge. When you begin to model your train layout always make sure that the ratio is the same if you want everything in proportion. Especially when it comes to automobiles and other equipment you need to be careful there is a great range of sizes that claim to be the same scale. Just remember the main thing about model trains scale is to always have fun modeling. For more information you can go to http://www.trainmodelingbook.com/model-train-scale-what-it-means/.

Thank you,

Steve Barnett

Retrieved from “http://www.articlesbase.com/crafts-articles/the-meaning-of-model-train-scale-2882178.html”

(ArticlesBase SC #2882178)

Liked this article? Click here to publish it on your website or blog, it’s free and easy!

Steve Barnett -
About the Author:

Steve Barnett is a model train expert. For more great tips on model train scale, visit

http://www.trainmodelingbook.com/model-train-scale-what-it-means/

]]>

Questions and Answers

Ask our experts your Crafts related questions here…200 Characters left

What do you mean by( 3D modeling is the process of developing a mathematical representation )?
I am trying to set up a company and filling out the form currently. it is asking me to choose to adopt a model article. What does that mean?

Rate this Article

1
2
3
4
5

vote(s)
0 vote(s)

Feedback
RSS
Print
Email
Re-Publish

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/crafts-articles/the-meaning-of-model-train-scale-2882178.html

Article Tags:
model train scale, model train, train modeling, scale model trains

Learn how to Build Model Trains – HO Scale

Learn how to build model trains – ho scale in this video with Dave Swanson of the Worlds Greatest Hobby Shop. (02:02)

Learn how to Build Model Trains – O Scale

Learn how to build model trains – o scale in this video with Dave Swanson of the Worlds Greatest Hobby Shop. (01:29)

Learn how to Build Model Trains – N Scale

Learn how to build model trains – n scale in this video with Dave Swanson of the Worlds Greatest Hobby Shop. (01:21)

Learn how to Build Model Trains – G Scale

Learn how to build model trains – g scale in this video with Dave Swanson of the Worlds Greatest Hobby Shop. (01:26)

Learn how to Build Model Trains – Introduction to Scales

Learn how to build model trains – introduction to scales in this video with Dave Swanson of the Worlds Greatest Hobby Shop. (01:22)

Bachmann Train Sets – If Bill Gates Was a Model-Railroader

Bachmann Industries, which produces Bachmann train sets, is the world’s largest maker of model trains and railway equipment. By slowly and steadily acquiring larger and larger chunks of the market, but absorbing other makers who have run into trouble, Bachmann is, in a sense, the Microsoft of model-railroading. Most surprising of all is how little time, in relative terms, Bachmann has been in the train set business: the first N gauge products under the Bachmann name appeared in 1968, followed by

By:
Liaml

Hobbies>
Collectingl
Dec 02, 2010

HO MODEL RAILROAD TRAINS: Model trains for Beginners

Many enthusiasts see the HO Scale Model Railroad as the most balanced gauge, in the “middle of the road” category. It has small enough size to allow for elaborate railroad track layouts while still consuming reasonable space. With its size. It is also less expensive than bigger scale modes yet, can accommodate enough detail for even the finest model, without becoming overly expensive.

By:
Train Girll

Hobbies>
Collectingl
Oct 16, 2010

Model Trains

When you get into model railroading, you quickly learn about model train scales. Every model train that is produced has a scale letter associated with it, such as: HO, O and so forth. The scale let’s you know how true to life it is and more importantly, the physical size of the train itself. The scale refers to the size in comparison with the real thing. For example, 1:220 means the real version of the model train is 220 times larger. If you are a newcomer to model trains, th…

By:
Lucas Pricel

Hobbies>
Collectingl
May 11, 2010

O Scale Trains Remain a Popular Choice For Train Hobbyists

Article Summary
To get great deal, low prices and free shipping on trains o scale please visit the website. You will also get access to in-depth information and a lot more.

By:
trains o scale Mcdonaldl

Hobbies>
Collectingl
Jan 19, 2010

Wonderful Model Railway Layouts

Model railway layouts are dioramas that contain scaled tracks on which trains can be operated

By:
Avery Baronl

Shopping>
Giftsl
Oct 27, 2010

Model Boats

Just like most other R/C hobbies, such as trains, cars or planes, remote control boats transcend a simple love of boats but instead embody the childhood dreams of those who make and use these miniatures. A popular way to enjoy remote control boats is by racing the models.

By:
John Parksl
Sports and Fitnessl
Dec 18, 2008

An Introduction To N Scale Model Railroading

All you need to know about n scale model railroad.

By:
Matt Blairl
Hobbiesl
Nov 10, 2009

Why Ho is the preferred scale of the hobbyists and why it can be a good choice for you.

By:
Matt Blairl
Hobbiesl
Nov 09, 2009

Screen Printing At Home with Yudu!

Allow the world to discover where you’ve been and who you truly are, through the clever and original messages printed right on your t-shirt. Give everyone a sample of attitude in the classiest way possible – with screen printing!

By:
mcmerbl

Hobbies>
Craftsl
Dec 30, 2010

Kameron Kay Jewelry Selling – How To Design Your Own Jewelry Review

Are you fond of designing your own jewelry? Do you want to discover the A-Z steps to becoming a jewerly designer? You’ve come to the right place. Kameron Kay will help you uncover the secrets to jewelry designing with “Jewelry Selling Secrets”!

By:
Paul Vincentl

Hobbies>
Craftsl
Dec 29, 2010

Kameron Kay – How To Make Lace Jewelry

How to make lace jewelry? Lace is a lightweight fabric patterned with open holes. These holes can be formed by removing threads or cloth from a previously woven fabric, or created as part of the lace fabric. Lace-making is an ancient craft that dates back to the late 15th and early 16th centuries. A true lace is created when a thread is looped, twisted, or braided to other threads independently from a backing fabric. Lace holds a unique appeal because it evokes a more traditional and vintage sty

By:
Paul Vincentl

Hobbies>
Craftsl
Dec 29, 2010

Blank Canvas

Is it possible to find a Cheap Canvas without compromising on the quality of the product? It sure is. Cartons of canvases are available through a leading UK supplier.

By:
Gareth Hoylel

Hobbies>
Craftsl
Dec 29, 2010

Messages Of Love And Care With New Year Cards

The holiday season is here, when it is all white out, snowy and cold, ready to welcome the New Year. Various people have different styles to celebrate the occasion and no matter what, it is always fun when entering the New Year.

By:
Harsinl

Hobbies>
Craftsl
Dec 28, 2010

Ideas for a Winter Wedding Tissue Paper Flower Bouquet

There is no doubt winter weddings are beautiful especially if you live in an area where there is usually fresh fallen snow. In this article, we are going to look at some winter wedding tissue paper flower bouquet ideas.

By:
Jane Morrisl

Hobbies>
Craftsl
Dec 28, 2010

Ideas for Crafts Using Diapers

What could be better than applying ideas for crafts using diapers for a butterfly cake, diaper dolls and other designs as the centerpiece for a baby shower? It is not only pretty, but also a practical useful gift to an expecting mother.

By:
Jamiel

Hobbies>
Craftsl
Dec 28, 2010

How to Make Your Own Business Card Magnets

People’s business cards often get discarded of misplaced because they do not stand out from all the other business cards they receive. One simple way to make your business card stand out is to make magnetic business cards.

By:
Jamiel

Hobbies>
Craftsl
Dec 28, 2010

How to Grow Grape Vines Successfully

How to Grow Grape Vines Successfully is information on how to plant grape vines for a successful vineyard.

By:
Steve Barnettl

Home Improvement>
Gardeningl
Nov 11, 2010

Great Grape Growing Information

Great Grape Growing Information is information on planting and growing your own grapes for making you own wine.

By:
Steve Barnettl

Home Improvement>
Gardeningl
Nov 03, 2010

Growing Grapes from the Chardonnay Vine

Growing Grapes from the Chardonnay Vine is information on the history of Chardonnay and how to grow Chardonnay grapes.

By:
Steve Barnettl

Home Improvement>
Gardeningl
Oct 27, 2010

Planting and Growing Grapes to Make Wine

Planting and Growing Grapes to Make Wine is information on planting, growing, and making wine from you grapes.

By:
Steve Barnettl

Home Improvement>
Gardeningl
Oct 12, 2010

Growing Concord Grapes for Your Own Use

Growing Concord Grapes for Your Own Use is information on concord grapes. Also tells how to plant and where to plant.

By:
Steve Barnettl

Home Improvement>
Gardeningl
Oct 12, 2010

Growing Grapes at Your Home Vineyard

Growing Grapes at Your Home Vineyard information on growing grapes in your own back yard vineyard.

By:
Steve Barnettl

Home Improvement>
Gardeningl
Oct 11, 2010

Cabernet Sauvignon Grape Vine Growing

Cabernet Sauvignon Grape Vine Growing is information on planting and growing Cabernet grapes. Also what type of wine the fruit will produce.

By:
Steve Barnettl

Home Improvement>
Gardeningl
Oct 06, 2010

The Know How to Grow Grape Vines

The Know How to Grow Grape Vines, is information on planting bunch and running grape vines.

By:
Steve Barnettl

Home Improvement>
Gardeningl
Oct 05, 2010

Add new Comment

Your Name: *

Your Email:

Comment Body: *

Verification code:*

* Required fields

Submit

Your Articles Here
It’s Free and easy

Author Navigation

My Home
Publish Article
View/Edit Articles
View/Edit Q&A
Edit your Account
Manage Authors
Statistics Page
Personal RSS Builder

My Home
Edit your Account
Update Profile
View/Edit Q&A
Publish Article
Author Box

Steve Barnett has 28 articles online

Articles Categories
All Categories

Advertising
Arts & Entertainment
Automotive
Beauty
Business
Careers
Computers
Education
Finance
Food and Beverage
Health
Hobbies
Home and Family
Home Improvement
Internet
Law
Marketing
News and Society
Relationships
Self Improvement
Shopping
Spirituality
Sports and Fitness
Technology
Travel
Writing

Hobbies

Bird Watching
Board Games
Card Games
Collecting
Crafts
Digital Photography
Needlework
Photography
Scrapbooking
Video Games

]]>

Need Help?
Contact Us
FAQ
Submit Articles
Editorial Guidelines
Blog

Site Links
Recent Articles
Top Authors
Top Articles
Find Articles
Site Map

Webmasters
RSS Builder
RSS
Link to Us

Business Info
Advertising

Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the Terms Of Use and Privacy Policy | User published content is licensed under a Creative Commons License.
Copyright © 2005-2010 Free Articles by ArticlesBase.com, All rights reserved.

Learning Curve Brands John Deere – 1:64 568 Round Baler

Detailed model 568 round baler and six individual round bales
The baler features a functional chute that can hold one round bale
Durable die cast construction, rotating spindle, and a front hitch
Compatible with most 1:64 tractors
Baler measures 2.75″ x 2″ x 2″

This authentic John Deere 1:64 set includes one incredibly detailed model 568 round baler and six individual round bales. The baler features a functional chute that can hold one round bale. Other features include durable die cast construction, rotating spindle, and a front hitch that is compatible with most 1:64 tractors. Baler measures 2.75 x 2 x 2. inches. Manufactured by Ertl, the worldwide leader in farm toys. Recommended age: 3 years and up.

Rating: (out of reviews)

List Price: $ 8.99

Price: $ 8.99

Model Rail Roads Help

The Meaning of Model Train Scale

Filed Under (Model Train Scale) by admin on 01-01-2011

Tagged Under : Meaning, model, scale, train

Learning Curve Brands John Deere – 1:64 568 Round Baler

Leave a Reply

Categories

Recent Posts

Pages