Model Railroad Options

One of the myriad superlative features of model railroads and model trains today is the sheer number of model railroad options available. Today's trains also bear an incredible resemblance to their life size counterparts.

Model trains, and the hobby of model railroading, date all the way back to the year 1891 in Germany. Märklin first introduced the full line of model trains at that time. The trains were available in three different scales, and were based on earlier toy train models.

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Since then, building a model railroad has become very attractive to a wide variety of people. It appeals to virtual empire builders, calls for strong organizing skills, and taps into creative impulses. It is at once relaxing, imaginative, and challenging! Here is a brief history of model trains and a rundown of the options available.

Lionel trains were initially introduced in 1901 by Joshua Cowen. Lionel later would almost totally dominate the model train market in the United States for many decades.

Other companies such as American Flyer, Marx, and Ives soon followed with their own lines but had limited success compared to Lionel.

Lionel was the first company to realize - and profit from - the importance of making model trains that anyone of any age could play with or collect. They decided to make wooden trains for ages 4 to 6, progressing to the S scale, G scale, and the HO scale by the age of eight.

It is certainly not unusual for this hobby to carry over into adulthood, and eventually second childhoods. Just about the only thing that changes is the size and number of trains that one might conceivably possess.

There is a tremendous selection of different scales of model trains to choose from. It's easily possible to find one to accommodate your available space, personal preferences, and budget no matter how large or small.Several examples follow...

Z-Scale has a ratio of 1:220. It works great for limited space, and is extremely detailed and small.

N-Scale has a ratio of 1:160. This is the second smallest scale; it allows you to add scenery and has longer train models.

HO-Scale has a ratio of 1:87. This is today's most sought after gauge for serious model railroading. It has an unlimited amount of tracks, trains, buildings, cars, and scenery to choose from. It maintains superlative detail, and does not require much space.

S-Scale has a ratio of 1:64. While larger than the HO, it can also be a great model if you have lots of room.

O-Scale has a ratio of 1:48. This is a terrific choice for younger children. It is relatively large, very durable, easy to handle and is made by Lionel.

G-Scale has a ratio of 1:22.5. If you're searching for a garden set up, this is the choice for you. Manufacturers that make the G-Scale model train are L.G.B, Bachmann, and Aristo-Craft.

Keep in mind that to have a properly working model train set, you will need an engine and a few train cars to pull. There is virtually a limitless choice of a wide variety of freight and passenger cars that you can add to your engine.

Once you've purchased all the necessary parts to have your model train up and running properly, you can add to your collection by adding life-like accessories such as buildings, signals, tunnels, people, trees, and many other forms of scenery. Now you're a model railroader!

Model railroading is a rewarding, entertaining, and very enjoyable hobby. With a little creativity and an endless supply of train models and accessories, you can construct a model railroad that's out of this world.

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