The first thing to consider is size.  Not necessarily the size of the train, but rather the size (or area) of where you will be planning on running your trains.

Will the size of your area be one of a temporary nature, for instance running under the tree for the holidays, or rather committing a certain amount of size in an attic, or cellar which would be more permanent? The larger the size of the area, the more flexibility you will have to build and create.

Once you have the size of your area selected, the next decision will be the “scale” (or size) of the equipment that you choose to run; age can also be a factor in scale selection.  Mom and Dad wishing to give youngsters their first trains may want to consider the larger scales such as O and HO gauge.  The reason being the larger pieces of equipment will be less frustrating to the hands of young beginners.  A smaller scale such as N gauge could end up being a disappointment.  If younger hands comfortably handle the trains, they will be more likely to derive additional pleasure from the new purchase. 

As far as selection of trains and train sets are concerned, there has never been a better time to join this great hobby.  The quality, detail, and choices are at their “all-time” high.  We, as consumers, are truly fortunate to have this kind of selection. 

As we make our selections of trains and train sets, we are going to hear the words ‘gauge’ and ‘scale’ thrown around interchangeably.  Scale and Gauge stand for different things… 

“Scale” refers to an exact comparison between a model and its “real life cousin” sitting out there on real railroad tracks.  Scale of a model is done in ratio form.  HO Scale is 1:87  In another words 1 inch on an HO F7 Diesel would be the equal of 87 inches on its real life relative. See what we mean?  Over time, a dedicated hobbyist can be a “stickler” for scale fidelity of their model, so it can accurately represent its prototype. 

“Gauge” refers to the track the train sits on between the rail heads.  Accuracy and exactness are very important regardless of it being model or prototype.  Model manufactures have to make sure that their equipment is of a certain “gauge” so that it operates appropriately on the corresponding tracks.

Size Ratios of the most popular scales

G Scale…1:22.5  this is garden/outdoor size equipment 

O Scale…1:48  Traditional Holiday (e.g. Lionel, MTH, etc) 

HO Scale.1:87 Most popular scale in the industry 

N Scale…1:160 Very little space required to set up 

You may also hear the term O27 when talking about O Gauge trains.  O27 will refer to the gauge or, more specifically, the radius of the curves in the track.  The curves are somewhat tighter and the equipment may be enhanced to negotiate the tighter curves.  Some of this equipment may look a little more toy-like.  A buyer wishing to buy “scale” equipment in O Gauge may want to be aware of this slight difference.