I personally think the demand for N-Scale has increased due to size, and because of the size, you can fit a lot more into a small layout. I personally have a 3x6 N-Scale layout that takes up a big portion of my room, but I can fit so much detail using the smaller scale.
@SimSummer
Жыл бұрын
yes but the detail is more spread out, in ho scale i can make an area and make it even more detailed but it just takes more space
@GoingTrackSideinAlberta
2 ай бұрын
That is true. You can do a lot more in N scale than you can in HO especially for very tight spaces. Greetings from the great White North Canada by the way
@gregbowen617
3 жыл бұрын
I got hooked on N Scale when I lived in the UK in the mid 1980’s. I’m not much into superdetailing and such, I just like to make an overall look and feel… N Scale let’s me do that in my available space.
@keithlea6804
2 жыл бұрын
Wish i still had my train sets from the 70s . Thanks mom for giving my stuff away when i went into the service in the 80s.
@TheRobertLcollins
3 жыл бұрын
I was in N scale for a long time, because of the size. I'm moving to Z because, well, that size gives me more options in a small space. :) I do wonder what effect 3d printing might have on this "N vs HO" discussion. Home 3d printers are becoming more common and more affordable, but you still need a large printer to print more than just detail parts in HO and the larger scales. It strikes me that if printing continues to gain in popularity, but the smaller printers are more affordable, that might start to have an impact on the hobby. If it's easier to print N scale cars, buildings, and such with home printers than to do so in larger scales, new modelers might choose N over HO.
@Maxwelliouss
2 жыл бұрын
i think that AMONGUS
@davidsheriff8989
Жыл бұрын
I am considering Z also but are there figures, houses, vehicles and other models available for this scale?
@kettusnuhveli
8 ай бұрын
@@davidsheriff8989 At least here in Europe Z scale is pretty well supported thanks to its inventor, Märklin, pouring lots of money at it. Can't speak for NA support though, since that is not my area of expertise...
@n-scaleunionpacificevansto6569
3 жыл бұрын
Jimmy, thanks for your analysis of HO and N scales. I believe you are absolutely correct in your conclusions. Clearly, both scales have advantages and disadvantages. I must say, though, that I'm an avid N-scaler and probably wouldn't switch to HO scale (a process known as "going over to the dark side") even if I had a very large space to work in. ...Roy
@TheTrainFreak
3 жыл бұрын
Roy, your already on the dark side with N! 😃
@n-scaleunionpacificevansto6569
3 жыл бұрын
@@TheTrainFreak Good point, Jason. LOL. ...Roy
@davidf9630
3 жыл бұрын
Us “n scalers “ are NEVER on the dark side…Because we need the lights on to see the small parts 🤪
@dkaustin98
3 жыл бұрын
Roy, going to the "dark side" was often referred to as one who jumped from a major scale into On30 narrow gauge modeling railroading. Probably used more for anyone who abandoned standard gauge for narrow gauge. I made that jump from N scale to On30. However, sometimes I do miss my N scale modeling. Talk about product limitations, try On30.
@tommurphy4307
2 жыл бұрын
i have a large home and my garage is bigger than our club's building but i can relate to what youre saying. i noticed you didn't use the word 'never'- smart. i've seen too many guys move from N to HO scale after they related the same feelings you have.
@squalli1297
3 жыл бұрын
Great subject. I got my 1st Lionel O gauge train set when I was 4 & was addicted. Fast forward to my early 40's & my return to trains & needed something prototypical & space saving since I didn't have a dedicated space for a layout, so I went with N Scale. Older hobbyists then were getting frustrated with handling minute pieces & went to HO-I didn't listen & gave no thought to getting old. Fast forward to my 70's, I won't be aging in place & will need to move in with my son & family. He's not interested in this hobby & I've invested in N scale too much to turn back now. My daughter-in-law's 22 y/o nephew is an N-Scaler-he'll be my connection & can handle the small stuff for me.👌
@tommurphy4307
2 жыл бұрын
maybe you would be better off to join a club. i would talk to young dude and see if you guys will get along and he will be there for you at least for the time being. i can relate to the kid because i am a motor man for a small n scale club, but i'm 64 and i know i can't do it forever. we have a few guys who are older than i and they don't like to work on small locomotives so we find an exchange that can let them contribute something to the club (or me) to compensate for motor work. i am currently mentoring a young guy in our club so i don't get slammed with work and he also represents somebody who can take over for me when the time comes....
@StevesTrains
3 жыл бұрын
I really want to build an O scale switching layout at some point, though I'll probably build mostly N scale layouts at this point. N scale has improved dramatically over time and keeps getting better. One nice thing about N scale is that you can get away with fewer details because often they are too hard to see anyway. Molded-on grab irons on an n scale boxcar generally look fine because separately applied ones hardly look any different unless you are trying to do a close-up photograph, and even then the difference can be subtle. With HO and larger scales, those details make a huge difference. Same thing with structures and other items. You can get away with implying details in N scale but usually can't in HO or larger scales. Of course, adding those details in HO or larger scales are a whole lot easier. The number one thing I hate about N scale is dealing with the couplers. Replacing couplers in N scale can drive you bonkers sometimes because the parts are so small.
@cdjhyoung
3 жыл бұрын
Super detailing in N is a matter of becoming and expert in weathering.
@StevesTrains
3 жыл бұрын
@@cdjhyoung yes, you do the weathering good and n scale can look great. Helps tone down the oversized details a bit and helps highlight the details you can’t see too.
@ericwilliams1023
2 жыл бұрын
He guys . Newbie here. If my wheel break is it better to replace the entire box car or simply replace the wheel ?
@tommurphy4307
2 жыл бұрын
@@ericwilliams1023 are you referring to a brake wheel or are you referring to a wheel that rolls on a rail? being able to communicate with decent grammar and spelling makes things easier on everybody. so, try that again so we can understand it.
@ericwilliams1023
2 жыл бұрын
@@tommurphy4307 lol..ok whatever. Sorry I haven't shown myself proficient in the cave dwellers language.
@iangerahty3422
3 жыл бұрын
A well reasoned analysis 🧐 you’d have made a great legal scholar presenting both sides arguments so well.
@mattguey-lee4845
3 жыл бұрын
I live in a 1 bed room apartment and I like to run long trains (20+ cars). That's why I like N-scale. In n-scale it's more about the scenery the train is running through than the super details of the train itself. In HO you're looking more at the details of each loco and car. I would agree that 3D printers are filling the gap of products offered in n-scale compare to HO.
@larryadamson6686
3 жыл бұрын
I returned to this hobby after 30 years, when the Big Boy returned to Ogden Utah for the 150th Golden Spike anniversary. I started with N scale and accumulated 18 steam and diesel locomotives which all ended being converted to DCC. I really like the size, for ability to create cities, country sides, rail yards, mining camps, turntables, etc. in a limited space. However, I really like the detail of steam locomotives. There are some very good looking N-scale steam engines out there, and I have acquired quite a few. I've owned a few highly detailed G scale models for over 20 years that I'm only using for display. They really do have the mechanical parts I like seeing in motion. So now, I've compromised. My (new) 10*12 train room, which I've been in for the last year is a two level perimeter wall railroad. HO at chair height, and N-scale for standing level. The N-scale is a double track folded dog-bone, and the HO is a lift out section. There is even a bit of Z-scale in the upper mountain mining district , which has an excellent forced perspective look. I'm very happy with this setup. N-scale for an overall look of distance between scenes, and HO for the detailed workings of the steam locomotives.
@StephenParsey
3 жыл бұрын
Short answer before watching: Yes. It’s the best compromise between size and detail.
@chrisbell52310
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Jimmy for your videos. I was hooked at episode ONE. Keep on 🚂ing!
@dannobilly
3 жыл бұрын
When I started out I wanted to do O Scale but I didn't have the room. Then I thought about N Scale but they don't have the road names I model. So I settled on HO because that's what I did as a kid.
@tommurphy4307
2 жыл бұрын
a lot of N scalers grew up with HO trains- i loved the mantua tyco and AHM cars i played with as a youngster.
@anthonylandrum63
5 ай бұрын
thanks, I'm trying to decide on size for my first set up, to include my 5 yr old grand kids.
@brandogg65
2 жыл бұрын
Great Clip on the subject of these two scales. I've always had an appreciation for model trains, and I'm now looking to build my own model railway. Choosing between HO and N scales seems to be my toughest decision so far. Watching this video and reading the comments has been very informative. Thanks man, and keep the awesome content coming. I'm sure I'll be around quite a bit taking in all this great info. I have a lot to learn! lol!
@sdallas68
Жыл бұрын
Very good presentation and timely for me. I've struggled with the pros and cons of HO vs N scale; truth is I like them both since each one has its advantages. As housing becomes more expensive in the US I can see N scale becoming more popular. One thing people overlook about cost is the cost of real life real estate to house your layout. I'm glad you mentioned TT. I've always said that if a model I could live with came out in TT I would jump in and switch in a heartbeat. It's really the perfect sweet spot between N and HO.
@johnarthur6302
3 жыл бұрын
I was an N scaler as a kid, but was often frustrated by how much stuff was available in HO vs N. When I got back into the hobby as an adult, I chose to switch to HO for that reason primarily. Since then, I’ve learned to love realistic switching operations, and sound, and details, and I am happy with my choice. That said, I am still very much fascinated by N and enjoy watching the N scale layouts with their big sweeping scenes at train shows. In the end, everything in the hobby is about compromising where we can to be able enjoy what we like most. The important thing is to pick a scale and get modeling!
@davidf9630
3 жыл бұрын
Great subject Jimmy. Over 30 years ago I had a 4x12 HO layout and LOVED IT! I had lakes, farms, a golf course and more figures/people that I could count… fast forward to January, I have a 3x6 counter in my garage. The decision was made “ I’m gonna get that n scale train set for $100.“ and it started to grow… sometimes the small parts get tough see, but then I know it’s time to take a break. So until I get my full basement back, it’s gonna be n scale for me. And today I’m drinking a reheated coffee left over from last night with 2 sugars… yum
@tommurphy4307
2 жыл бұрын
old coffee seems to render a mellower twinge- am I right?
@jacksonthomas1851
Жыл бұрын
I asked this very question on the NScale Reddit. This was in response to things I have seen and the community on Reddit seemed to agree with the rise in popularity. They may have been biased. But with that being said I’m seeing more and more evidence of the demand and popularity of N scale day by day.
@tdraiss7129
3 жыл бұрын
I'm new to model trains as a builder. I went with N scale for the following reasons. 1 - space for a layout (my other choice was Z) 2 - cost ( I couldn't get myself to spend more money on a Z scale locomotive) 3 - product availability and future expansion capabilities However, I grew up watching my Uncle build these massive and very impressive HO scale layouts that would take over his whole basement. I think if we was still with us and modeling, I probably would have gone with HO. So after tons of research and decision making N scale won. I like the idea when I get more room that I can stick with N scale and build larger layouts. Currently I'm still in the buying phase and I have yet to place track down. When I finally get my bench work done, I will be using the MMRone as a guide. Thanks for the videos and I don't do anything special with my mug, I fuel myself with Folgers and just milk.
@tommurphy4307
2 жыл бұрын
wow i hate that stuff- at least drink some decent coffee....
@richharris9489
3 жыл бұрын
Jimmy i have around 100 rolling stock 15 locomotives in n scale . Love it
@TriGogglin
3 жыл бұрын
I could see them becoming equal, N scale is great for space saving. But as you said the small nature becomes very hard to work on the older you get. I would love to go HO but no room to do it.
@Mike-pj1kv
2 жыл бұрын
I'm getting older and my eyesight is not as good, but a good pair of glasses helps with that and my hands still work well so I can manage the details alright.
@ConversationStartersVideo
Жыл бұрын
I started out years ago with HO but quickly became an N Scale Convert. My current layout is a 6x12 duck under and even at the age of 72 it’s fun to model N Scale and you can pack so much action into your space, regardless of how big or small it is. For me it’s 15 KATO Engines along with KATO track. I’m a happy N Scale Camper.
@dragonite0067
3 жыл бұрын
Great video. I am an HO scaler but I have found the downsides to it compared to N scale and I have been trying to figure out which scale works better for me
@Mason58654
Жыл бұрын
N scale is hugely popular in Japan 🇯🇵 where KATO reigns as the premier N gauge manufacturer. Lots of wonderful Japanese trains in the gauge as well. I’m planning on making my first layout with KATO N gauge.
@ictmainline9273
3 жыл бұрын
Great video. I have gone back and forth several times on which scale to model because I love them both, so I compromised by creating T-Trak modules for N scale and am currently building a new HO layout in my garage. I also am drinking 8 O'clock hazelnut made in the french press, black.
@TheTrainFreak
3 жыл бұрын
For me, I've always done HO because I don't like working on very small models. My son went with N scale because he wanted a train that he could claim as his own and not run on dad's layout....lol. What about HOn30? It might be the size of HO but can use the same track as TT Guage which allows for tighter radius. - Jason
@VestedUTuber
3 жыл бұрын
That's HOn3. HOn30 runs on N gauge.
@Morganstein-Railroad
2 жыл бұрын
I started in N scale with my father during the 1970s. I can't imagine how much extra space I would need to build my current layout in HO - I don't think my flat would be big enough. In any case, I've always thought that N scale looks so much more manageable. the thing is - having been a life long N scale modeller, HO looks big and clunky to me. It's not that it actually is, just that a loco feels right at an average of five inches in length, not Ten. That's all it is really - What you're used to, and I'm happy with that. Enjoy your videos, buddy, and find them inspiring.
@mikebledsoe2315
3 жыл бұрын
*New to the hobby and haven't decided what gauge i like; very informative post. Taster's Choice Instant Coffee with 3 Bob Stripe peppermint balls, 3 tablespoons of honey, with a dash of International Delight Caramel Macchiato.*
@JeffDM
Жыл бұрын
How do we know the relative health of the various scales over time?
@ts2226
2 жыл бұрын
I am leaning to N scale, but would like to know, if you can have lighted buildings and/or moving figures etc., in the layout?
@mckerrowsiding
3 жыл бұрын
I am working on an N scale layout, because of it size. It allows me to have large industries , paper mill, open pit quarry. Which are great for operations. The other reason is 3D printing. I can print rolling stock. I have printed ore cars, coil cars box cars and well cars. Although the up front cost for the printer may be high. The saving in purchasing rolling stock can be offset after a few cars. A typical car can cost as much as 30$ so it you print your own 15 you pretty well paid for the printer. It also saves on structure details, not to mention shipping fees on commercial made model. Great video, great topic!!!!
@tommurphy4307
2 жыл бұрын
the smaller the scale- the better a printer you will need- 3D printed shells generally don't look as good as mold-casted resin shells and the difference is very obvious in n scale. we have an alps printer that we use to make decals and it cost a grip and that was just a conventional flat-media printer. its going to take a hell of a lot more production than what you think to pay for a printer thats good enough for making shells and rolling stock. we tried that in our club and most of the guys went back to casting by hand because the results just looked a helluva lot better.
@kettusnuhveli
8 ай бұрын
@@tommurphy4307 You clearly have no idea what youre talking about. Even the hobbyist grade resin 3D printers can easily reach around 30-20 micron accuracy, Can create better detail than injection molding if calibrated correctly, while only costing around 300 or so dollars per machine. Look up brands like Elegoo, Anycubic, Phrozen and so on. What your club had was clearly an issue with lack of skill and knowledge of what is available and how to operate these machines.
@acrranscaleandlifejourney4330
3 жыл бұрын
If I had the room, I would have a HO scale layout. My N scale layout is coming along very well. Another great video, thanks.
@richharris9489
3 жыл бұрын
Stick with n Scale dude
@acrranscaleandlifejourney4330
3 жыл бұрын
@@richharris9489 I’m disabled and on a fixed income, I will never have the room. I will stick with N scale
@CWESTERBECK
3 жыл бұрын
N scale is awesome for getting the most railroad in limited space especially now that the quality has gotten better. As railroaders get older, I can see switching to HO or O gauge just because it’s easier in the eyes and not so delicate for arthritic fingers.
@TimberSurf
3 жыл бұрын
I started on TT scale, at the school club, it IS the perfect scale, just none available, as was, in UK stock and now only available in continental outline and mostly not RTR, real shame
@iangerahty3422
3 жыл бұрын
I recall the cereal box TT scale British outline models in the mid sixties. I think they were produced by Airfix. Sadly I didn’t have them for very long and they are hard to find. I understand that the tools may have been destroyed. They were snap together but I believe there were powered bogies available to be installed.
@sams2960
2 жыл бұрын
If I wanted to build a full room layout, I'd go HO scale with DCC. For now, I'm quite happy with my little N scale switching layout that fits on my dresser in the bedroom using a good ol Athearn simple power supply / controller and Kato track with #6 turnouts. 40 year old rolling stock I found in a box (Atlas, Model Power, Bachman) all still functional, pulled by my "new in box" 1992 Arnold RS-1 (with Rapido couplers to match my cars) I found on eBay at Chicagoland Hobbies. That is one thing about N scale, you can use #6 vs #4 turnouts because the space is available and even truck mounted couplers won't derail backing through them.
@elleryparsons5766
3 жыл бұрын
My Advise is this I Love Ho And N Scale. Yes I started In Ho Then I had an Itch for N had it when I was a Kid Now I am Understanding N Scale more. If I could Model 3 Brands in N Scale it would be Bachmann, Lifelike Power Loc And Kato. But I Model Bachmann And not Regreating it.
@mikel5295
Жыл бұрын
I started model railroading in 1977 as a kid , got away from the hobby and in the late 1980's I decided to get back in the hobby with N scale due to space limitations. I just didn't like N scale at all because at that time it was as expensive as Ho , hard to find much of anything for variety and the size was just too small for me . I went back to Ho scale and never regretted it. That's just me tho and I am never gonna bash anyone who runs any scale . Actually N scale has really come a long long way and I'm glad to see it !
@davidchang7838
Жыл бұрын
Compared with HO scale, modeling in N scale places more of a premium on eyesight and dexterity, two things that generally deteriorate over time in adults (especially for those 50 and older). I can only imagine how much more challenging it is working with small(er) parts, which is a major reason why I model HO scale. I think marketing N scale -- especially towards a younger generation of modelers -- is the way to go for model railroad manufacturers/suppliers. If I was going to start in N scale today, I would opt for building modules (Ntrak, T-Trak, Free-MoN, etc.), which N scale is ideally suited. Heck, I might just have to give it a shot, lol.
@gullijons9135
2 жыл бұрын
I'm a beginner and I decided that N would be the scale for me, mostly because of space issues. Then I started realizing, like many others, that I can focus less on detailing of certain things and more on the general look and feel which suits me perfectly. My biggest issue is I live in Sweden and the availability of Swedish N-scale is severely limited so I might end up running either German or even American instead.
@keelershortline2235
3 жыл бұрын
I'm an O scaler. My layout is 5'x8', and is very crowded. Working with AC track power causes some problems when wanting to incorporate Arduinos for automation. The cost is sometimes mind-blowing. But the heritage of O scale and ease of working with the scale, for aging hands, is some of the things that keep me attracted to it.
@ThisWorks4Me
2 жыл бұрын
Kato is also primarily a Japanese company. I've been to their factory showroom in Tokyo. They make N-scale models of every commuter line around Tokyo. If you get to Japan, take the time to visit the showroom, it's impressive. By the way, I'm building an H.O. layout but I am building an N-trak module too.
@shanestrains7179
3 жыл бұрын
I can say with the utmost confidence, that i dont believe n scale will over take ho scale in terms of popularity. One reason. Age. Inevitably, we all age, as does our senses. Vision and coordination r a must when working on locos. And n scale becomes more of a hinderance the older u get. Now, im sure there will b a hundred ppl say, im old and i do n scale no problem. To which i respond, throw away ur glasses and magnifiers and see how easy it is for u.
@davidf9630
3 жыл бұрын
Amen! I have readers, magnifying glasses, camping headlights, overhead LED lighting, open the garage door and I’m still struggling to focus… only if n scale was a little bit bigger 🤣🤣🤣
@jamesdenny4734
2 жыл бұрын
My first train set was N, I had a after school job n bought it in 8th grade. I do have vague memories of a lionel O scale set my dad bought me when I was 4yrs old 😉
@IMRROcom
3 жыл бұрын
FYI: O scale used to de the dominant scale for many years long before HO. It was said at one time HO was a niche scale... And HO was supposed to be the next step down from O.
@JakeSweeper
3 жыл бұрын
You mean S?
@tommurphy4307
2 жыл бұрын
my cousin has an amazing O-scale layout in his barn near jamestown, pa.- it has scenicked atlas O and lionel toy sections. he's always changing stuff on it and i can't wait to see him so i can see the layout (don't tell him that, though)
@IMRROcom
2 жыл бұрын
@@JakeSweeper no, O was the dominant scale. HO came along as the less expensive step down scale from O. HO cost less, took up less space etc. S scale never factored into it other than American Flyer toy trains. O and HO were/are modelers scale. S Lionel O27 are toy train scales. Little has changed in most cases other than HO is the dominant scale and now N is the jump down scale. Who knows N might pass HO like HO passed O. Less space to model makes N look like a bigger option over HO in the future.
@lockecard1
Жыл бұрын
I just found and started watching your videos. Very informative and helpful. In this video over your left shoulder it appears you have a screen door closer mounted to the bottom of your platform. What purpose does it serve?
@DIYDigitalRailroad
Жыл бұрын
Good Eye. The original placement for this layout had an easy lift out ability using the piston. I did not have a need to remove that piston when I changed it.
@JERRYR708
Жыл бұрын
There seems to be a movement for tiny homes, downsizing and are minimalist. I have only O scale in my collection, but I'm taking an interest in N scale for the first time. If hard times, inflation, and uncertainty keep increasing, I may need to run N scale if I lose my home and live in a small apartment or van.
@jonathanjones35
3 жыл бұрын
You may have missed one advantage of n-scale, that is, with n-scale you can get more realistic track and scenery arrangements in the same space. You can put an n-scale layout/track plan in an HO-scale space and suddenly you can use #8 (or larger) turnouts, have prototypical-size (I.e. really big) industries, and keep the same curve radii, which would be tight in HO (e.g.18-inch radius) but broad in n-scale. It’s almost like creating space.
@tommurphy4307
2 жыл бұрын
maybe you would like Z scale for the same reason.... sorry, i dont do motive power in Z- that's a young man's sport...
@elleryparsons5766
2 жыл бұрын
The Reason I have 2 Layouts is this. Flip flopping Between the Scales what doesn’t work on one works on the Other.
@phillipdavies1081
Жыл бұрын
I haven't had model trains for many years, but nostalgia and grandchildren are making me think it's time to return to them in the same way I just started buying vinyl again. I live in the US now but am English so grew up with Hornby OO, I have found a shop fairly close by that appears to sell Hornby, I haven't been yet but the weather is bad up here in Wisconsin so I'm avoiding unnecessary journeys until the snow clears. However, I'm aware that slipping back into OO probably isn't really a good idea because I just won't have the available merchandise that I was used to, I should go to HO instead since it's so close as not to matter to me and will be easier to get. In fact, looking at it, I think it looks better, more to scale. But, I am tight for space, I mean, really tight. So perhaps not undoable in HO but I really am considering N. I don't mind it being a little more fiddly, I'm not concerned about it being more fragile, I'll be gentle. I'm not overly concerned with detail being harder to manage as I wasn't planning to be pedantic about things. I just want as much train as I can get, so figure N will achieve that for me. Thoughts anyone? I'm currently sitting in the firehouse on the first day of a 48 hour shift, I have French Roast coffee with vanilla creamer as I like it sweet but don't want sugar.
@medwaymodelrailway7129
3 жыл бұрын
Layout nice you got there.
@UneducatedEngineer444
Жыл бұрын
I love ho scale, but I have to put my trains in an enclosure because we have two cats and I don’t have an extra room in my apartment to keep them out of, So I’m building an n scale coffee table layout
@Kampfmesser89
2 жыл бұрын
I have a TT set from East Germany. It really is a great scale. There is a manufacturer that has adapted Kato Unitrack to the scale.
@richardmycroft5336
2 жыл бұрын
I have both N scale and HO scale with most of my time spent on the HO layout. The reasons are that it is a lot easier to build detailed scale scenes with HO and I'm less worried about busting something with the HO stuff as opposed to the N scale equipment.
@gregbuskirk
Жыл бұрын
I had several layouts in HO Scale but now that space is limited now involved I am have to down size and this will be my 2nd layout cause I am waiting to add the Big Boy in it so knowing HO Scale requires more room to hold it so with N Scale I will the room and space for it
@chrisjones4423
3 жыл бұрын
Been an HO modeler for a long time, but, I do have an N Scale layout and some G locomotives (just cause they are cool looking, I have no track for them) great video!! Peets K cup this morning!!
@VestedUTuber
3 жыл бұрын
For its size, G is surprisingly compact in terms of layouts. While a 4x8 would be a pain since you'd be working with Code 255 Flex track (which requires a rail bender) and below-intended radiuses, an 8x10 around-the-walls is VERY doable, and I'd even argue that it's very cost effective since you don't have to buy much rolling stock for something like that.
@chrisjones4423
3 жыл бұрын
@@VestedUTuber Wish I had room to do a G scale layout, my basement is pretty much filled with Trains and train memorabilia. Maybe a high track around the large room.
@VestedUTuber
3 жыл бұрын
@@chrisjones4423 I mean, it's not that bad in terms of needed size. G-scale is primarily narrow gauge and designed to go around tight curves. LGB R1 is only 25.4" in radius, not much more than the 24" radius large HO scale passenger equipment requires, and significantly smaller than the huge radiuses required by the more scale varieties of O. The only things you wouldn't be able to run on that tight of a radius are Pullman coaches and some models of larger locomotives (mainly the bigger Accucraft and USA Trains models).
@chrisjones4423
3 жыл бұрын
@@VestedUTuber I would love to see the G’s running, my current HO layout is 28x6x12 and a 3x6 N layout! So space is tight. Finishing up a section on my HO layout, then I’ll try and put something together. Thanks for the info and encouragement!!
@AdamSaltFPV
3 жыл бұрын
I started on H.O. in the late 80’s, moved to Kato N scale in 2000. Coming back in to the hobby, I’m going with Z. Always wanted to try it and now it’s more affordable and available.
@martinwoodworth3715
Жыл бұрын
Here in the Uk Hornby have introduced TT:120 which is midway between N & HO. It appears to be doing very well. As a lot may know the Uk mainly use OO gauge which all runs on HO track but is out of scale at 1:76 as opposed to proper HO 1:87. I did model railway in my teens & would love to get back to it. I would like to do HO not OO. Then my 1966 0:6:0 engine & 1974 flying scotsman that I kept from years ago, both the oversized OO, will work on an HO layout. But this new TT:120 stuff looks very good.
@brianpagemodeltrains
3 жыл бұрын
Well thought out reasons for the popularity of N and HO, Jimmy. My guess is that each will maintain their current status, because when a model railroader chooses a scale, they tend to stick with it (Mostly). Watching today with BRCC's Mac V roast, black.
@chelmswoodjunction
2 жыл бұрын
hello i use to be a oo gauge modeller until i had to move to a smaller house and i have traded all my stock for n gauge and i am loving n gauge so much more than i did 00 gauge. and you are so right on detail sound dcc being fitted to n gauge i can have what i had in oo now in n gauge. i am a british outline modeller being based in birmingham united kingdom. and i will say that the price is cheaper for n scale and there are more manufactoers in the uk and japan making alot of british outline stock. thank you for this video. peter birmingham uk
@jasonminier6782
3 жыл бұрын
I did HO when I was a kid. When I got back into it as an adult living in small spaces, N was a natural progression. Also, I'm glad I'm not the only one that got those silly Evemodel busses and cars. Current coffee is Schuil Costa Ricala Minitia.
@splicetape9435
2 жыл бұрын
I model mostly OO9. I find it as the perfect compromise. It takes up a lot less space than a OO and HO with the option of running N for something different. My layout Is a multi guage setup with a OO9 narrow gauge railway that meets OO standard gauge branch that meets at the head station for freight and passengers. There is also a couple examples of N scale that I use as half scale of standard gauge locomotives for the executives inspecting the railway.
@4trialsin
3 жыл бұрын
Space is the exact reason for my switch from HO to N back in ‘84. My layout is in a spare room, 8x14, around the walls. Perfect operation for 1-2 people. PRR in 1967. Great vid. Having a Death Wish dark roast. Thx
@yootoob7048
3 жыл бұрын
I have been and N Scale model railroader since 1968. When I did think about switching to another, it was TT Scale that caught my attention. I too think it is the 'perfect' size. I may purchase some TT equipment one day but I will never stop modeling in N Scale.
@tommurphy4307
2 жыл бұрын
you said the 'N' word....cross your fingers.
@lpclassic60
3 жыл бұрын
I felt that comment about a warehouse full of G scale trains! I guess my ideal would be live steam, but I don't have anywhere near the requisite engineering skills. Those who do awe and terrify me. No coffee today, but I'm rocking some coconut boba tea from JT Boba House.
@loispadgett6306
3 жыл бұрын
I find I like all scales but do N scale as favorite. There are some HO sets I would like to get because have brother who does HO and can run them on his track. Good to have family member who likes trains also. GOD BLESS 🚂💖🚂💖🚂💖
@MirehManuh
2 жыл бұрын
Nscaler here mostly because i do Japanese trains to be honest and most of the lines are readily available in Nscale
@josephharper3768
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the coal for the loco or (food for thought). I've just started model railroading this year. I started with N scale because of space. The versatility of larger scales like HO is more appealing day by day as I see more in the hobby. Would love to see more of that compromising scale TT, you mentioned.
@tommurphy4307
2 жыл бұрын
TT is more steam-era & foreign train stuff, but if you are disappointed with the variety of N scale stuff, you'll hate TT.
@CM-ARM
3 жыл бұрын
Jimmy I would have went HO but N Scale had the product I wanted to model (Boeing's Aircraft Assembly plants). Micro Trains makes what I need if HO I would have to make. One of the few times N Scale makes something that HO doesn't. Today I'm having a treat, Starbucks Coffee Frappuccino.
@TheBossJohn
2 жыл бұрын
You touched on this, however, please consider taking a look at this.Selection. HO has a far greater selection of everything. For an example, structure kits, to road names on rolling stock. Plus you hit the nail on the head with size. Scratching building anything in N is much harder because of size. Simply apples and oranges between N and HO scales.
@The_Duggler25
Жыл бұрын
Funny thing is that started out in the states and then got started in the uk and it kinda died out for awhile but starting to gain attention again
@ericwilliams1023
2 жыл бұрын
N scale is just easier for me bc it takes up less space. It's easier to store out of the reach of my kids. I have a local shop that supplies tons N scale !
@railway187
2 жыл бұрын
I would have liked to use N-scale because it takes less place. But I started in H0-scale because in that scale there are models available for the theme of my model railway. Good review 👍👌👏 Greetings from Belgium 🙋♂️🇧🇪
@mobileauto
Жыл бұрын
I started in N but as I aged it was harder and harder to work with them. It was not the trains them self's but decoders, panting and assembling structures and working with turnouts. It was hard to switch to HO as I liked the amount of stuff you could do with N in a small place. Three years later I pulled some decoders from cheap N scale locos and wondered how I ever worked with them. I am glad I changed. But all thing equal I would have stayed with N gauge
@OriginalBongoliath
2 жыл бұрын
I think something missed is what type of motive power you prefer. I like steam. If you like steam, O and HO are superior with the amount of prototypes on the market and features available compared to N. N looks to be a more diesel-centric scale.
@kents.2866
2 жыл бұрын
Yes definitely. I made the mistake of trying to build a layout set in the 1910 Era for N scale. And the support just isn't there. Model Power is done, which was the only manufacturer to make Mogul types of that Era. Hardly any rolling stock. At least with HO you still have plenty of Brass models floating around, rolling stock kits, etc. Here's a question I've been thinking about. Is steam Era modeling dying off? I sure hope not but that seems to be the case.
@mikel5295
Жыл бұрын
To me it doesn't matter if N scale becomes more popular or not , im in ho scale and living the dream
@ATSFVentaSpurNscaler
2 жыл бұрын
Hi Jimmy! You video makes a good analysis. I will always be an N-scaler even if my scale remains 2nd best to HO. To me, the minuteness of N scale never ceases to fascinate me. Plus, you can do so much more in N scale with the space in which you have to operate. - from Tom Pilling
@elleryparsons2433
Жыл бұрын
For my Wife and I we ❤️Both scales.
@johnmharper
Жыл бұрын
For operations involving a lot of coupling and uncoupling like yard switching Ho is a lot easier than N whereas N does allow the opportunity to run modern prototypical trains.
@cruisinjoe
3 жыл бұрын
I am drinking Pepsi this week so can we call this week’s episode Cola and Trains? Yes space is a premium
@claytonmoore2091
3 жыл бұрын
Good video - and your correct about N vs HO, as far as how much harder to work on N-scale. If I had an extra 15'x17' space, I admit Id skip right over HO and unpack boxes of really beautiful S-gauge trains I have. But alas for now Im in N-scale so I can at least do trains ;-). I have some very pretty stuff in N scale as well.
@jefferyscott1523
2 жыл бұрын
I grew up on both scale's
@wolfiealternateaccount4181
Жыл бұрын
I had N scale for 15 years and no HO scale trains at all. Then i bought a HO scale Atlas Gold series with Sound and DCC and I was hooked. Most of my trains are HO now. I converted the entire Bachmann line of Thomas and Friends to DCC also. In HO it was easy.
@SoRTs6233
3 жыл бұрын
Very subjective, unbiased comparison between two scales. I moved to n-gauge (UK name for n-scale) due to size limitation, and love it! Came across Triang TT gauge by accident and, to be honest, I am thinking that it might have been a better option. You made no effort to influence viewers one way or the other. Great view Jimmy. Take care.
@christiankroemer4267
2 жыл бұрын
Just from my experience, HO Scale hits a golden sweet spot in size and detail, particularly for the engines and cars. By contrast, N scale allows for more layout design and larger layouts scale for scale.
@jolliemark6294
3 жыл бұрын
Jimmy you hit the nail on the head! While n scale is getting more popular it will never over take HO and TT would be s great compermize but no one is manufacturing in America equipment but wish they would. Thanks for sharing 😀 Just a not I model both n & HO but only HO to run at the museum in San Diego with the club....
@dannydanbo58
2 жыл бұрын
I absolutely think N will become more popular than HO. Due to people downsizing to a smaller house or apartment, I think it will rise in popularity. Everyday more and more N scale objects, trains, buildings, etc. are being created. And now, with the advent of digital printing, almost nothing in N scale cannot be created. And think about how huge your current layout would be if it were in N scale. I've had a dream (that will never happen) to recreate the Gorre and Daphetid in N scale. Imagine that.
@professional1298
Жыл бұрын
What we need is a 1/72 scale, sure ho is close but not enough...rail road stuff is the only stuff to have any sort of civilian stuff to use for my military dioramas, it adds life to em
@tomscameras
Жыл бұрын
Yes, the perfect scale is TT. (!!!!) But even in Europe the choice is limited. Basically it's East German models, because TT was huge in East Germany already back in the 1960s and 70s. Today there's some choice of modern West German types as well. But maybe things are improving now: The brand new Hornby TT, I hope it's gonna be a success! It's also the first time in history they get the exact same scale in the UK as everyone else (1:120). Apart from that, I'm modeling both in H0 and in N. I'm constantly annoyed by how much space H0 needs and also I am annoyed at how bad stuff in N scale works ... maybe N scale was even worse 40 years ago, but IMO there's still a huge gap between N and H0 when it comes to slow switching, smooth coupling, smooth running over switches, the higher-end track systems in H0 (and TT!) are much better, etc. etc.
@muchfunwithtrains
3 жыл бұрын
I've enjoyed G, O, On30, HO and HOn3 and N (and Lego, whatever scale that is...) over the years, and I agree that TT is the future. I love N scale, but I also love scale-sized trackwork, and doing handlaid track in N scale is another barrier that might keep me mainly in HO forever. The physics of wheel-on-rail is also considerably better in HO, so it's easier to keep the track and wheels clean and operating well. Maybe future "dead-rail" in N scale will change all that. Also, you didn't mention TrainZ, which is modeling full-size railroads on a computer simulator. It will be interesting to see how much that grows in popularity as life becomes more and more computer-based, and more resource-constrained.
@abbofun9022
3 жыл бұрын
“if you had the space you would go H0”, sorry but no. The fundamental question is what you want to do with your track, lots of movement and running go N, wanna go detailed go H0.
@VestedUTuber
3 жыл бұрын
Lots of movement and running: N, also ironically 7.5" gauge if you have access to a club. Lots of detail: G, focusing on narrow gauge. Also O, but O has stupid radius requirements that make it nonviable for personal layouts outside of narrow gauge and "toy" O-27. HO... is when you want more detail than N but still want a decent amount of movement and running in a small-ish space, relatively speaking. Once you get into shelf layouts, HO doesn't really have a point as G's space requirements aren't actually that much bigger, again due to its focus on narrow gauge.
@Mikey45013
Жыл бұрын
Agree g scale in a warehouse woild make the perfect world
@margolehman5482
Жыл бұрын
For space reasons, I've gone with Z scale. Love these videos though, I've learned a lot. Looking forward to any you do on Z scale!
@shanesimmons3784
3 жыл бұрын
Myself, even if HO is more popular, I am planning on building an N scale setup at some point here - once I have the adequate cashflow to do so. I'm sure all fellow model railroaders understand that one. I'm new to the hobby and this upcoming would-be N scale layout would be my first model railroad. I collected N scale freight cars for years (MTL, Atlas, and a few others) for years, awhile back, and I got to the point recently, where I figured either I can sell 'em off and make some money or try building a layout to actually run them. Of course, I'll have to invest in a decent locomotive or two, first - maybe a switcher or pair of switchers, which I could run back-to-back. As for N scale itself, I want to go with that scale because of the cars I already have, and because it saves space, and the longer-train aspect is also appealing. I had a question for you, though, Jimmy (and anyone else, really). Do you think improving materials technology will allow more realistic duplication (scale-accurate details, etc) of prototype equipment? A particular example would be with the couplers in N scale. It would be interesting if someone could develop a way to use carbon nanotubes or other carbon filaments, to produce a dead-on working replica of the real thing, at 1:160, with the required strength being provided by the carbon itself. I do think this is quite possible; whether or not it's practical or economically feasible right now is another matter, perhaps. Regardless, the future looks bright for N scale, and the hobby as a whole. Perhaps now is the best time ever to get into the hobby with this vast array of information about it available on the internet, for all modelers.
@ronclark9724
Жыл бұрын
I believe if all the n scale manufactures had the same quality as Kato it could gain even more market share. Most just are not there yet, because as you state, they are mainly HO/OO scale manufacturers. They only have a minor interest in n scale, much like Kato is with HO. I believe being able to play with your trains or work on your layout every day is ultimately going to win the larger share of the market. An interesting scale that might arise and take market share from both is TT scale, which seems to be growing in Europe. TT scale enthusiasts suggest HO is too large for most European homes, layouts in attics, garages, and sheds in their gardens, are too cold to play with or work on in winter. They also state n scale is too small, while you can bring the layout inside your home, it is too easy to derail trains just by bumping into the table or layout benches. That you spend more time retraining your trains. Now, I am not suggesting that is true, I have derailed HO trains by bumping into the layout. I think it comes with the hobby. With TT scale, the small HO layouts set up in attics, garages, and sheds - fit in any room. This analogy I believe is true, what you can fit on a HO 4x8 layout fits on a n scale 2x4 layout. The same layout in TT scale fits with a 3x5 layout. 4x8 is just too large for most bedrooms, it take up almost the entire room. But 3x5 can be stored under a twin bed, can be placed on most dinning room tables, just like a 2x4 n scale layout, which can fit on a large coffee table. So I believe HO/OO scale is going to slowly fade away.
@zeekmx1970
3 жыл бұрын
I totally agree, I like HO best. HO is really hitting right now because of the new sound modules with higher performance and better detail. Walthers, Anthem, Detailed Trains, to name a few. I love the diesel electrics. I run Walthers Burlington 8129 Digital Heavy Hauler, Rock Island and Rio Grande oil tankers. 1 Rio Grande live stock car. 2 CN red box cars, 1 universal flat car, dual offset caboose. 4x8 layout. It's on my channel.
@leetaylor7468
Жыл бұрын
Exactly what you said mate...space...I'm out of it...thinking of going N scale from HO.. Lee
@ericcoughlan
3 жыл бұрын
Recently I was asked to make some OO scale trees for a friend. As I make all my own trees in N scale, I agreed. My N scale techniques did not translate well into OO, and making those trees has put me off HO/OO forever. Far too much work required to make the models look good. Back in the late 1960's, I worked in a hobby shop that sold TT, and I can remember arguing with the boss that N scale was going to become the more dominant scale. Now, while TT is still around, there is very little manufacturer support for items such as buildings, vehicles and people, so you are still faced with a lot of scratch building to make it work, plus the mechanisms for the locos are almost as small as N scale. My recent coffee is Nescafe's Dolca Gusto Americano - black.
@tommurphy4307
2 жыл бұрын
we have a desert-themed layout, so that means minimal trees and a lot of dust and brush. we do have a guy who is great at trees- he does all the trees and bushes and I have to do his steam fleet- boo-hoo.
@ProspectorsGhost
3 жыл бұрын
I've done both HO Scale, and N Scale layouts. I went back to N Scale due to 2 things. - (1) No matter where I have lived, I have never had the extra required (needed) space it takes for an HO Scale layout. - (2) I figured out that I can get twice the size of layout in the smaller sized areas that I always seem to end up with for making a model railroad layout. FYI, I just traded all my HO Scale equipment straight across to a friend for his N Scale equipment as he wanted to switch over to HO Scale, and I wanted to switch back over to N Scale. In fact, since the trade (two months ago), I have just finished setting up another basic N Scale layout on a 34" X 79 1/2" hollow core door, overlaid with pink panther extruded foam. I wanted to keep it lightweight this time around. No more tons of extra weight created by using lots of drywall mud over cardboard, chicken wire, window screen, and newspapers of which all of my layouts have been built from in the past. It has a continuous run loop, 2 reversing loops, 7 bridges, 8 turnout switches, a main-line section for future expansion, 2 sidings (1 siding could be used for future expansion), and 2 levels. It all started out as a modified free-lance copy of the Woodland Scenics, Scenic Ridge layout, but by the time I finished, it was a heavily modified free-lance version. I finally got to actually run trains on it this past week for the first time. It works quite well overall. But now comes the fun part, working out the few bugs (flaws), that are always inherent to the building of all model railroad layouts.
@tommurphy4307
2 жыл бұрын
one of the older guys in my club bought that WS scenic ridge layout and track kit for his grandson and we all got a big laugh out of it. the kid modified only the one corner where the curve meets the diverging switch and always caused derailments but i think grandpa suggested it after us guys pointed it out to him. kid actually ended up with a good-looking layout, but he's an american z-scaler now.
@ProspectorsGhost
Жыл бұрын
@@tommurphy4307- I didn't buy that ready-made Woodland Scenics, Scenic Ridge layout kit you are talking about. I saw some videos of it on KZitem. So, and because I'm on a very low limited retirement income I decided to scratch-build mine from the beginning out of a hollow core door I had laying around the house and some pink and blue extruded foam insulation sheets I bought from Home Depot. Everything on it has been built from scratch out of what ever materials I could scrounge up for free or little to nothing in cost. Most of the layout structures are scratch-built and made from wooden matches and popcycle sticks of different sizes. The only purchased structures I have at this time is an N-Scale Pizza Hut and an N-Scale Train Depot. I have a model railroad scale ruler with different model railroad scales on it. I always start out scratch-building an item in N-Scale with that ruler. However due to the fact that over the years I have modeled in HO Scale more than in N-Scale. So by the time I finish scratch-building a structure it always seems to end up looking more like it belongs on an HO Scale layout. A lot of model railroaders (especially Scale fanatics), will put it down and say.... "That's not good." But, the way I look at it is..... (1) I built it and it's too late to change it now, so I'm not going to re-build it. (2) Nobody but me and my wife is going to see it or use it. (3) Most of the friends around me (except for one), wouldn't know the difference anyway because they are not model railroaders. (4) It's my Railroad layout, so I'll do it my way. Who cares. Each time I start to scratch build something my wife always puts her hands up like she was measuring a fish to a fisherman and always says.... "Little", "Little" - But as usual, my return response is that I keep telling her that I can't build and add all the small details that I want to add of which a large manufacturing plant has the capability of doing, so that fun argument between the two of us keeps on going. How did that little argument get started? Well, years ago, I scratch built her a lamp of an old Spanish Galleon made out of a scrap wood wall panel, and a string of colored christmas lights. It sat for years in the front kitchen widow of our mobile home at the trailer park we were living in. Everybody who seen it would stop and praise it and ask about it. When we had to move I gave it away. She was heart-broken because we couldn't take it with us. So I scatch built her another one. Unortunately that one was bigger in size. and ever since then, she has used that "Little", "Little" argument against me all in fun. Now you know the rest of the story, LOL. But who cares. I'm having fun scratch building everthing, and we both get to have fun running a model railroad layout no matter how it looks pertaining to an actual scale or not. ***************** A special note of thanks to, and hereby give credit to a great N Scale model railroader. of which I so readily admire and of which has inadvertanty taught me many things about N Scale model railroading by watching his videos. Thanks "Steve Brown" for your favorite saying of "It's My Rail Road" I fell in love with it and hope you don't mind me adopting it for my own use.
@chrisroeben1085
3 жыл бұрын
I started out in HO because I'm a details fanatic. I love adding details and have a huge desire to make very detailed scenes that draw the viewer into the scene and become part of it. I have a page out of the November 1993 Model Railroader magazine featuring their Model of the Month built by Everett T. Seymour that inspires me to do better and to do more. Now with being said, I live in a 2 bedroom apartment with my son and only have room for a 3'x10' N scale layout. This will also be highly detailed as much as possible. The other reason for N scale was Club politics in the local modular layout clubs that set up at various train shows around the state. The N scale club had the least politicking going on within the group. As for the manufacturers I started at the 2019 Trainfest in Milwaukee, WI making a case for more N scale development due to space constraints that new and old modelers are starting to face. I'm seeing more and more people moving into Condos and Apartments as quickly as they go up. There is no basement for layouts like a house has, and space is at a premium inside their unit. So between the space needs and the more highly detailed out of the box models N scale definitely has a good chance of over taking HO scale sometime in the not so distant future.
@tommurphy4307
2 жыл бұрын
moved to california 40 years and it wasn't until then i realized what a hostile environment a basement is for fine scale trains. not many basements in cali. there is one good thing about basements- they are nice and cool during the summer months and they make a great hideaway for us while moms upstairs entertaining the ladies. the down side of that is they can get bored and will invariably sneak downstairs to see what you are up to. so- hide the beers and blow your hit into the furnace draft control!
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