An Introduction To N Scale Model Railroading
admin | November 17, 2009
One of the smaller scales of model train, the N in N scale model train stands for the number nine; the space between the rails used for these trains is nine millimeters. This scale is significantly smaller than the other popular scales of model train: O and HO, making this ideal for those model train hobbyists who don’t necessarily have a lot of room to devote to their hobby but want to maximize their use of space. N scale is also a good choice for those who want to run longer trains in their layouts. These trains have the advantage of being smaller and lighter and as such, they need less power than do the larger model railroad scales.
These trains tend to be highly detailed and very realistic. In some cases, they’re even more detailed than larger trains. They’re ideal for those who want to put together something truly realistic and complex - something that large trains don’t always allow. You can put together a really intricate N scale layout that’s still portable in many cases. That allows train hobbyists to take their track layouts to shows and fairs, as well as public places for holiday exhibits.
N model railroad scale trains may be small, but they are commonly used enough that it is easy to find plenty of accessories, scenery and other items for these trains and their layouts. N scale scenery is available which is every bit as detailed as the scenery you can find for the larger trains. You can even find steam locomotives in N scale which use real boilers. Since the trains are so small, they can use either a conventional model train power supply or a battery.
You can fit N Model Railroad almost anywhere, including small apartments or rooms dedicated to other uses. Even extremely complex layouts will fit on a single sheet of plywood, and are easy to move around. You’ll find many examples of layouts in photographs and in online video. Beginners can get access to books and instructional videos that can be a huge help in putting together their layouts.
Many people are of the opinion that a less popular scale such as N scale doesn’t offer a lot of choices to hobbyists in terms of accessories and scenery items - but as it happens, there is plenty available to N scale enthusiasts. While you might not see everything you’re looking for in a local hobby shop, you can easily find all of the N scale accessories you need on the web. There are websites which specialize in sets and accessories for this scale of model train.
For the beginner, Bachman offers a variety of N model railroad sets, such as the White Christmass Express, which comes with the track for a 34″ by 24″ oval layout and features a steam locomotive with tender car and working headlight, plus two cars and a caboose. The power pack and speed controller are included, and lots of other sets and accessories can be purchased, too.
