Train Cars
Most Popular Scale Model Trains
If you are considering buying a Model Train set, one of the first choices you have to make is what size to get. This article identifies the most popular scales and translates each scale into inches. Based on an analysis of Google searches, the most popular model trains are the HO scale and O scale. These two scales account for over half the searches, both in the United States and globally.
HO Scale trains lead the pack with 31% of total searches in the US compared to 30% of searches for O Scale trains. HO Scale also leads the pack globally with a dominant 49% of searches. The explanation for the popularity of HO trains is due more to the affordable prices and manageable size. HO trains are 1:87 scale, which means the cars are about 7-9 inches long. HO scale trains are about the right size for most beginner train hobbyists because the track layout usually fits well on a 4 x 8 piece of plywood.
Compare that to O scale trains, which are 1:48 scale, which means the cars are about 12-16 inches long. Not only do these train sets take a lot more space to set up and to store, they also cost a lot more. As a result, these trains are primarily purchased by more serious model trains hobbyists while the HO scale trains are primarily purchased by beginners and families looking for train sets as a Christmas gift.
The next leading scales are the N scale model trains with 20% of searches, followed by G scale with 16% of searches. These trains are 1:160 scale, which makes them even smaller than HO trains. Cars are only about 4-5 inches long for N scale. G scale model trains are at the other end of the size spectrum with 1:22.5 scale, which means the cars are about 18-26 inches. These are too big to fit in most homes. They are most commonly used in outdoor gardens.
The only other scales getting any searches are Z scale and S scale. Z scale received 3% of total searches while S scale received less than 1%. Z scale model trains are 1:220 scale, which is even smaller than N scale. Z scale is a popular choice for people who have only a very small space available such as a coffee table or a desktop. S scale trains are 1:64 scale , which is slightly larger than the popular HO scale and slightly smaller than the popular O scale. Despite being in the same size range as the two most popular scales, the S scale trains have not caught on for many hobbyists.
About the Author
Joe Kanooga is a father of two kids, a successful business owner and the author of numerous articles about ho scale model trains. Click here to download a free model trains guidebook filled with hobby tips, ideas and information.
Train Cars
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Building the Ultimate Toy Train Collection
Toy train and Model Railroad enthusiasts across the world are not shy about showing off their collections. In fact, a great deal of time goes into building their ultimate toy train collection and layouts. Serious collectors know how much time and energy goes into their creations. Weather you are a new collector, or someone who has been collecting toy trains for many years, the same goals are shared when it comes to both train layouts and design.
The joy each train collector experiences when building their display is like no other. Train collections usually feature vintage trains manufactured by some of the best in the industry, such as Lionel, Marklin, Fleischmann, and Rivarossi. The possibilities are endless when it comes to designing train layouts, ranging from O Scale and HO Scale creations, to N Scale and G Scale creations.
Each model train enthusiast has their individual preference when it comes to collecting various train sets, train cars, and locomotives. Year after year collectors from across the world gather at train shows, train expos, and other train meets. The chances of discovering rare and classic model train collections are quite good when attending these events, so these events are something collectors thoroughly enjoy and look forward to.
The average person would not know the core differences in each train design, but the serious train collectors generally know what to look for. Many years of experience will only help enthusiasts obtain more and more useful knowledge. The knowledge which is obtained will usually have a clear effect on how their train layouts are built and designed.
When building and assembling a train layout, there are a series of steps and preparations that most builders follow. These may include choosing the train track layout, choosing the specific type of train gauge to use, and choosing the type of method in which the track will be secured. Builders will then decide what type of models and landscaping fit best with the type of train layout being built. Many common types of scenery will include mountains, bridges, as well as an assortment of towns, cities, and villages.
It's quite amazing how unique and creative many train layouts turn out once all the hard work is completed. And some of the best train collectors and train layout designers will often explain that their layouts are never complete, simply because they continue to modify and build additions to each and every single one of their creations. When a collectors' trains are on display and showcased for all to see, one of the biggest rewards he or she can receive is a simple smile from their audience taking interest in the Model Train Layout shown before them.
About the Author
Publisher of Train Sale, a highly active and updated model railroad website featuring toy trains for sale. Popular trains for sale include Lionel, Marklin, Rivarossi, Fleischmann, IHC, and more.