N Scale Train Kits

One of the more popular scales used in model train world is the N scale. This particular scale ranges from as small as 1:148 up to 1:160. Regardless of the actual scale the gauge which is the distance that separates the rails is always 9 mm. The actual term N gauge was met to refer to the trains track dimensions. It is not unusual to find that the terms N scale as well as N gauge are used interchangeably during discussions of N scale train kits. One of the major advantages of using the N scale is it permits the train hobbyist to erect larger layouts which take less space than they would if using the HO scale. The N scale allows the construction of longer runs of track within identical amount of construction space. The N scale trains are nearly a half the size of the HO versions.

The name N scale originates from the abbreviation which designates Nine millimeters which as we explained was the distance from one side to the other of the rails. The N scale is small but don’t think for one moment that it is the smallest for the Z scale holds that record.

Various model trains related accessories existed as far back as 1927. Our contemporary N scale train kits did not appear on the market until 1962. Within a two year period the N scale community completely defined the gauge, the voltage, the height and even the type of track couplers used.

The N scale train kits developed a large following of railroad enthusiasts. The popularity of N scale models is second only to the older HO scale. It is interesting to note that in Japan where most of the families have smaller homes and space is at a premium, the N scale train kits remain at the top of popularity while the conventional HO scale is considered to be large in comparison. Many of the train modelers do not select the N scale because of space limitations but rather their desire to assemble more elaborate train layouts.

In the country of Australia the N scale has been gaining in popularity over the years. Previously there was no local sources of N scale train kits but now that Australia produces their own accessories the rush is now on to convert to the smaller N scale.

In traditional N scale train kits usually the locomotives are DC powered and they accept a maximum of 12 Volts DC. With the traditional DC controllers the speed of which the train travels is determined by the quantity of voltage supplied to the railroad rails. It stands to reason that the direction of travel is determined by the DC polarity of its power supply. Near the end of the 20th century many enthusiasts began using what is called DCC or Digital Command Control in order to determine both the speed and the direction of their locomotives.

So in the event that you lack the space for the larger HO scale of model train or you merely want to develop a more elaborate and realistic train layout you may possibly consider the N scale train kits. You may decrease the size but you are certain to increase the enjoyment.