Model trains come in a variety of sizes, or scales. One of the most popular is the N scale, which ranges from 1/148 to 1/160 the size of a real train. Putting it in perspective, a 70 foot locomotive would be between 5-1/4″ and 5-5/8″ long.
With a small size, there are advantages and disadvantages. Let’s start with what people like about N scale trains.
First, N scale model trains can fit almost anywhere. A simple oval loop setup can be placed on a 2’x8′ or even a 3’x5′ piece of plywood. In fact, N scale model trains are known as “table trains” because they can fit on top of a kitchen or dining room table. This makes model trains much more accessible for those who don’t have a lot of space – you won’t need a spare room or basement to have a good set up when using the N scale.
The second advantage is that, due to the size, you can build a more elaborate setup in the same amount of space as larger scale trains. Whereas a 4’x8′ setup for the next largest size, HO scale, wouldn’t be much more than a loop or figure 8, an N scale might have one or even two relatively complete scenes with spiral tracks and multiple levels. Because of this, model train fans with limited space can really fall in love with N scale trains. N scale really allows them to create a complete and complicated world.
One last reason why people enjoy N scale trains is precisely because they are so small. It’s the same reason people like miniature toys of any kind. It’s fascinating that these little machines actually work and it’s hard to believe that such a small world really exists and can be so beautiful.
However, there are some drawbacks to N scale model railways:
First of all, they are too small for some people. While some people like miniatures, others prefer to be able to feel the weight of full-scale trains. Also, the actual sounds that N scale trains make on the tracks are higher pitched than the larger and heavier scale trains. N scales simply don’t have the same “feel” of weight that many enthusiasts want from their models when trying to recreate real life trains.
Another disadvantage is that which points to pride in workmanship. Many modelers take justifiable pride in their work – they may spend many hours over many months or even years trying to develop a design. Unfortunately, because N-scale train setups are often found in such small areas, the amount of work that went into creating that scene, easily equivalent to the larger layouts, is simply not appreciated by others who may come to see it. At model train displays, smaller N-scale layouts are easy to miss if they’re in close proximity to a larger one.
One overlooked aspect of N-scale trains is that they are hard to detail once you get them home. If, for example, you’re a person who likes to weather trains, it’s harder to make that wear realistic on an N scale than it is on even the next size up, HO scale train.
The N-scale models are probably too small for many younger children to play with, as they may not yet have the fine motor skills necessary to work with them, and even for the youngest children, they are potential choking hazards. On the other hand, adults with large hands can find them very difficult to work with simply because they are too small.
Finally, N scale model trains, while popular, are not as common as HO. Because of this, the selection is smaller and there are fewer resources directed specifically at N scale trains.
All in all, N scale trains definitely belong in the train modeling community. For many model railway enthusiasts, the pros outweigh any cons and they enjoy these beauties for hours on end.