Bachmann N Scale Explorer
Sorting Out Model Train Scale
Model scale is the ratio between the model and prototype. This sounds very simple, but when it comes to Model Trains it can get very complicated. Let's try to sort out the model train scale of the N, HO, O, and G Scale Trains. Also, we will look at the gauge of these four scales. Remember gauge and scale are two entirely different things, even though a lot of people seem to interchange with one another.
Looking at the N Gauge trains, we find out that the distance between the two rains is nine millimeters. The N in N scale stands for the nine in nine millimeters. But, this is gauge not scale. So now we know what the gauge is, let's look at the scale. The scale of N scale trains is different according to the country the train is being modeled in. The scale ranges from 1:148 to 1:160, but all run on a nine millimeter track gauge. In the United Kingdom the N scale is built on a ratio 1:148 to the prototype. Whereas, in the United States the N gauge train has a 1:160 scale ratio. The Japan the N gauge has a scale ratio of 1:150 and some modelers in Britain use a scale ratio of 1:152. So, when modeling in N scale always look at the ratio to keep all your train and accessories the correct scale. But, is you mix them up you probably would not know the difference.
The HO scale train has a track gauge of 16.5 millimeters. This scale is the most popular Scale Model Train in the world. When modeling in HO scale you do not have to worry about different ratios, like in the N scale. The HO scale train has a standard ration of 1:87 world-wide. The HO stands for half of O, which means that the HO scale is approximately one half the sizes of the O scale trains, which we will explore next.
The O scale is different in that it can have a track gauge from 31.75 to 32.64 millimeters. All O gauge trains will run on any of the tracks without any problem. The standard O scale track is considered to be 32 millimeters. Now let's look at the scale of O gauge trains. The scale in the United Kingdom has a ratio of 1:43.5, where, 1:45 is the normal scale ratio in Europe. The United States uses the ratio of 1:48 scale ratio.
Now we take a look at the G scale trains. The only standard in this gauge is the track, having a track gauge of 45 millimeters called (Gauge 1). The scale of the G scale trains is another thing. The gauge is different form manufacturer to manufacturer and from country to country. Wrightway, Accucraft, Aster, Marklin, and MTH manufacturers make their model in a ratio of 1:32. Aristo-Craft and USA Trains "Ultimate" series is 1:29, whereas LGB, Bachmann's "Big Haulers" series and the Gartland Locomotive Works builds their modes in ratio of 1:22.5. Also, there are many more manufacturers and scales. Therefore, the G trains should be called G gauge, with no particular scale. For more information on model train scale, visit http://www.trainmodelingbook.com/model-train-scale-what-it-means/.
Have fun modeling,
Steve Barnett
About the Author
Steve Barnett is a model train expert. For more information on model train scale, visit http://www.trainmodelingbook.com/model-train-scale-what-it-means/.
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