Model Trains O Scale: What You Need to Know
Model trains these days come in all sorts of scales and gauges. The term scale typically refers to the size of the model train relative to a real train while gauge usually refers to the width of the model train tracks. One of the more popular model train scales in the US is O Scale, or zero scale. O scale trains got their start around the early 1900s and were so called because they were the smallest trains manufactured at the time, being smaller than 1 gauge trains and other popular standard scales of that period. O Scale trains became quite popular, primarily because of their lower cost when compared to the larger scale trains of the time. Most O Scale manufacturers in the US adhere to the National Model Railroad Association (NMRA) standard for O Scale trains of 1:48. What this means is that 1 on a NMRA standard model train is equivalent to 48 on a real train. So, a 48 foot long real diesel locomotive modeled in O Scale would be 12 long. Since the initial introduction of O Scale trains, improvements in manufacturing methods have enabled the production of smaller scales such as the popular HO Scale and n gauge, but O Scale trains still remain quite popular with both hobbyists and collectors. Go to Trains O Scale now to view and purchase popular O Scale model trains.