N Gauge Trains
There are many different scales of model trains, and for those with a smaller space in which to have their hobby, N gauge trains are an ideal size. These are much smaller that the standard O and HO train gauge, and are designed to be able to fit on smaller platforms, with whole layouts on work benches of 8×4′ or smaller. The N refers to the space between the track rails, nine millimeters. The scale of these trains are 1:160 the size of a real train, and half the size of the more popular HO model scale, which is 1:87. The actual scale of N gauge train depends on where you live in the world, with some slightly bigger or smaller.
They are perhaps one of two of the most popular scales of trains around. You can find this size just about anywhere you would find larger scales, and the availability of parts and accessories is just as great. Some of the trains and scenery for this size are quite a bit more detailed that some other sizes, which just adds to the realistic look of your layout. Even if you don’t necessarily have a smaller space to work with, you can build even better and more elaborate layout designs with this size than you would with larger scales.
N gauge trains are also ideal for people who like to run long trains with many cars. N trains are much lighter than bigger models, both for engines as well as the cars themselves, so you can run a really long line of cars if you want, without loosing power as you would with larger scales. Many also choose this scale because of its small size and portability. There are portable workbenches that fit can be taken apart and moved around, and the light weight of this size train make moving it from place to place a lot easier.
There are many different manufacturers of N gauge trains, with Bachmann and Lionel being the top selling brands. You can find many good starter sets and many that won’t break your bank. One of them is the Prairie Flyer Set UP N, from Bachmann. This set comes complete with an American 4-4-0 steam locomotive with tender, an old time combine and coach cars. It also comes with enough nickel silver E-Z track to make a 34″x24″ oval, including 11 curve tracks, 4 straight tracks and a curved terminal derailer. This set has a limited lifetime warranty, and while it lists for $157, you can pick it up for under a hundred dollars in many locations.
There are many scenery packages as well as many more styles and sets to choose from when it comes to N gauge Model trains. These include trees and other plants, plus many buildings, vehicles, and little figurines. You can find an abundance of websites that sell this gauge and many others, and you can also check with your local hobby shop. If you want to see what kinds of layouts can be created, there are many examples online to help give you plenty of ideas. There are even books available to help you create some of the best layouts imaginable. These include all the list of parts you will need, as well as great advice.
