N scale model trains become more popular each year
N scale model trains are becoming more and more popular each year. This scale presents an answer for modelers with limited space, -requiring only about half the area of a similar HO layout. When commercial models were first introduced in the early 1960’s, they were viewed with the same criticism as the first HO scale models. Thought to be too small for any serious detailing, most scale modelers shied away from them, preferring to model in the larger scales. Over the past twenty years, however, n scale models of improved appearance and operation have been available in huge numbers and advancements in the scale have attracted many enthusiastic modelers. Included in this group are those who not only switched because of space requirements, but for the ability to model long, prototypical freight and passenger trains. Some sacrifice of fine scale modeling attributes seem to be willingly made in order to obtain this objective.
N scale model trains are becoming more and more popular each year. This scale presents an answer for modelers with limited space, -requiring only about half the area of a similar HO layout. When commercial models were first introduced in the early 1960’s, they were viewed with the same criticism as the first HO scale models. Thought to be too small for any serious detailing, most scale modelers shied away from them, preferring to model in the larger scales. Over the past twenty years, however, n scale models of improved appearance and operation have been available in huge numbers and advancements in the scale have attracted many enthusiastic modelers. Included in this group are those who not only switched because of space requirements, but for the ability to model long, prototypical freight and passenger trains. Some sacrifice of fine scale modeling attributes seem to be willingly made in order to obtain this objective.
N models are available from a large group of manufacturers from several countries and vary in scale from ratios of 1:148 to 1:160, depending on the supplier and country. U. S. models are made to 1:160 ratios, while those of the United Kingdom are 1:148. Japanese manufacturers build models in both 1:150 and 1:160 scales. All of these run on the same 9 mm gauge track and require a 12 volt D.C. controller. D.C.C. devices and controls are offered by several suppliers for more realistic control and operation.
Although I model in HO scale, I have been sorely tempted several times to switch to N. The explanation is simple-I always seem to need more space to expand. The lure of a huge N gauge layout occupying the same space as my present spread is strongly appealing and is only tempered by the fact that I have an enormous amount of HO equipment and structures that I could not bear to part with. It is also a good idea to keep in mind that building a huge layout of any scale as a first project is not a good way to get started. I have seen many modelers with partly completed railroads abandoned and gathering dust because they underestimated the amount of time and effort required to attain their desired goal. Start small-think big, but build in stages and get trains running as soon as possible. I have found it to be very helpful to always work on completing the difficult jobs and leave the simple tasks to do at the start of the next session. That way I look forward to getting back to construction as soon as possible. Leaving a complicated job facing me tends to create a desire to put things off.
There is nothing at all wrong with building a small N scale layout. A 3’ x 5’ sheet of plywood serves nicely for a tabletop layout which can be quickly built and when completed can be easily slid under a bed.
The 4’ x 8’ HO gauge layout shown above can be built in approximately 2 ½’ x 4 ½’ in N gauge.
Although N scale is ideal for the modeler who is interested in long trains but suffers from limited space availability, it is not highly recommended for small children because of its size and difficulty of handling.
For those modelers who have no space at all, an NTrak module is a great way to get involved in model railroading. Most modules are built on a 2ft. x 4ft area and contain 3 main tracks at a height of 4ft. Since these modules are built to standards they can be clamped together with others to create a large layout of almost limitless proportions. A number of clubs and associations exist which combine NTrak sections for operation at clubs, shows and conventions. I remember one train show where an NTrak layout featured a coal train of 100 cars. The modules could be better described as dioramas and are ideal for creating small, intensely detailed scenes. The NTrak Modular Railroading Society has a website containing photos, standards, and descriptions relative to this method.
