Model N scale trains

N Scale is a 9mm gauge, with several different scales actually used. One used in England is 2mm on the model equal to one foot on the real train, or 1/152nd scale. Elsewhere in Europe and the US 1/160th scale is run on N scale gauge. In the UK a 1/148th scale is also run on N scale gauge. In the US and Japan 1/150th and 1/160th scale models are also used on N scale gauge. Not all of these are perfect fits in scale to a 9mm gauge, but the difference is considered too small to worry about by most. For those who do, there is a slightly wider and often handmade track.

N scale is second only to HO in popularity, and eclipses that scale in Japan, where the small size is much easier to manage given the traditional lack of space. N Scale is roughly half of the size of HO scale. In the UK, a more precise 2mm scale is available, allowing those who refuse to compromise the level of detail to luxuriate.

Similar sizes and gauges to the modern N scale existed as far back as 1927, but modern N scale was created in 1962. Despite the apparent chaos implied in the previous paragraph, N scale was quickly standardized and within two years of introduction manufacturers agreed on the gauge, voltage, height and type of couplers.

Traditionally, N scale uses 12V DC power though recently Digital Command Control has been growing in importance. This allows fine control and operation of multiple trains on a single track, including no more than one analogue train.

N scale models are often “weathered” by the hobbyists. Real trains are not indoor creatures and are typically dirty or otherwise affected by the weather. Artificial dirt and oil substitutes not only make the models look more realistic, but help make the detail of the model more noticeable.

A famous N scale layout is the Clinchfield, designed in 1978 using several forward-looking features. It is 6’x13’ but is modular. The layout is made with an aluminum frame and Styrofoam construction to reduce weight, one of the early uses of this technique. The model shows a great deal of scenery, as the design was optimized to show the high scenery to track ratio possible in 1/160th scale. The layout won awards, including a grand prize in 1984 and has had several owners.

Another famous layout is the Pacific Desert Lines at the San Diego Model Railroad Museum. With 1,089 feet of track, the equivalent of 33 miles, many models of San Diego structures are recognizable on the layout. The layout has great detail, even to the point of having surfers on the beach. The layout can be manually or computer controlled.

Copyright 2007 Jim Sterling - All Rights Reserved

Model Railroad Scenery using Extruded Foam

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