Why HO Scale for your Model Trains?

There are a number of scales people use to build their model train layouts, and everyone has his favorite. When I first entered the hobby, I narrowed my initial choices down to HOn3, HO, Sn#, and On30.

Here's how I did my final analysis on which scale is best:


Physical Properties:

The larger scales (1:48, 1:64) allow enhanced detail, literally down to the bells and whistles. Generally, your model trains will also have better operating characteristics. The smaller scale (1:87) allows more terrain on the layout, allowing for more miles of track and additional city and landscaping.

Space and concept:

I wanted to build a layout that borrows heavily from Furlow’s HOn3 San Juan Central (and 8' by 10' layout for those unfamiliar with it). I could fit a layout only slightly bigger than that into my available space, an important consideration for anyone considering a new layout. These space limitations tipped me towards HO or HOn3.

Detailed Models

I am a long time, avid reader of Narrow Gauge & Shortline Gazette. The majority of real quality work seen in a typical issue is in larger scales. There is currently a wide variety of structures, a great variety of On3 rolling stock and scratchbuilding materials. On30 has a lot of energy and enthusiasm surrounding it these days, and I am comfortable with the slightly less formal atmosphere of the On30 community. This area tipped me towards On30.

Vehicles and Figures

I love model period vehicles and figures. I also wanted to have a complete model population of figures. In 1:48, there is a fair variety of figures but a marked shortage of vehicles. It's possible to use 1:43 vehicles modified slightly, but then that diminishes the layout's fidelity.

HO boasts a large number of vehicles in the late-20’s to mid-30’s timeframe that so intrigued me and also a wide variety of figures -- which means one unit of "tip" toward HO.

Pragmatic Concerns

Namely... What do I already own. That's an important question to ask since there's no need, after all, to completely reinvent the wheel. I have many classic HO structures, a fewO scale structures, a variety HO standard gauge kits, several HO locomotives, and two HOn3 engines. This all means: HO and HO standard will be cheaper to get going. Additionally, some of these HO kits are what I’ve always wanted to have on a layout. (call it one unit of tip towards HO).


HO wins so far: Narrow or Standard gauge?

I like narrow gauge, but I find that the models are awfully small. Bachmann has recently begun providing excellent inexpensive small and medium size steam engines in HO standard that look and run great (and I already even own several).

My primary goal is to overcome the intertia inherent in starting a new gradiose layout, and so I'm going to get with what I already have a basis for: HO standard guage. Perhaps in the future, once I have an initial success under my belt and build some momentum, I'll try something more alien (to me anyway) and ambitious.

And so, the question begs: Am I paying a price for my security?

I personally believe that projects of any sort turn out best when we acknowledge and accept the compromises we feel are necessary to make and confirm that we are really comfortable with them. A fellow by the name of Boone Morrison really summed up the choice I decided to make:

“HO is a great scale to build a model of a railroad; O scale is a great scale to build railroad models.”

Why Model Trains?

Model trains are a time-honored American tradition, but are they still in vogue? In a hip, technological world where anything can be done on a computer, why should people still invest their time in the world of model trains?

Here are a few thoughts:

#1 Model railroading is a social activity, one which appeals to people from all walks of life. Hobby shops and conventions are great places to meet new people to share ideas (and complaints) with other railroad enthusiasts. There are national and local clubs and associations all across the US -- and the world. There are also an entire host of amazing contests and shows where avid railroaders can show off their talent and accomplishments.

#2 Working on a model train set can be a great family activity. It seems that in today's world far too few activities can be enjoyed by the entire family, but model railroading allows for many people to work together on large and ambitious projects without worry of exposure to any kind of inappropriate content or unhealthy risks. What's more, creating a decent display requires the combination of many talents: painting, creativity, fine motor skills, construction, and design. The hobby is also an enduring one, an activity which adults and children alike can enjoy at any age. Many people stay involved in the model community for life.

#3 Model railroading is educational. We know from brain research that staying mentally active and cognitively fit is of tremendous importance to leading a long and fulfilling life. Working on model train sets requires one to think flexibly in a variety of different arenas. The successful model train designer learns about history, basic carpentry and electrical skills, economics, model building, artistic techniques, planning and design, spatial reasoning and visualization, research skills, fine motor skills, geography, and culture. And they have fun doing it!

#4 It takes time! Painting model trains and designing railways is not quick business. In a world of instant gratification and an accelerating pace of life, having to relax and work slowly but intentionally on a project can be a healthy and fulfilling experience.

#5 Model trains are not just for geeks! Plenty of traditional professionals, sports stars, and otherwise wildly successful individuals have enjoyed model railroading. Such people include Tom Brokaw, Rod Stewart, Bruce Springsteen, Winston Churchill, Tom Hanks, Joe DiMaggio, Phil Collins, Michael Jordan, and Neil Young.