What I DON'T like about N Scale
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 22 พ.ย. 2023
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“The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again.
But one disaster is enough to overthrow the wicked.
Don’t rejoice when your enemies fall;
don’t be happy when they stumble.
For the Lord will be displeased with you
and will turn his anger away from them.
Don’t fret because of evildoers;
don’t envy the wicked.”
Proverbs 24: 16-19 NLT - แนวปฏิบัติและการใช้ชีวิต
I run HO scale because that's what I had as a kid, but also because I love putting together model kits and there's still a boatload on the used market that haven't been assembled. I've joked around that the old Athearn and Walthers kits were "Gunpla before Gunpla got big", and it gives me a sense of nostalgia for an era I never really got to live in (Born 1995). Regardless of their reasons, I still sometimes consider it a shame most manufacturers dropped their shake-the-box kit lines in favor of increasingly-detailed RTR products.
i’d have preferred to go with HO, but i only have space for N scale rn, but hope to expand the n the future
@@kharis7602Look up Budget model railways they often do oo in small spaces
Similar problem with OO the durable models of yesteryear have been replaced by far more expensive highly detailed models but Tadhg at the market is poorly catered to
I model both HO and N again after going away from N for about 35 years. It was bad back then, but thanks to channels like yours and Steve's I've stepped back in and am really enjoying myself. Kato trains and track are a game changer and have helped tremendously. With good products, you seem to have a lot less issues, and now it's fun again. I love my HO and will never get rid of that either. I also have an oval of LGB too, and that's all I need there so I'm good. Happy Holidays to you and yours!
Steve inspired me too
My favorite part of n scale is that the trains are still big enough to satisfy my butthole.
With enough lube applied, I start the train at full speed and jump in front of it. Tight fit, but it gets me off!
Using Z scale works too, but my butthole is too gaping for Z scale. It’s like threading a hulahoop if you know what I mean.
N scale detail is getting alot better. I consider myself the be a rail fan more than a switching layout. Watching long trains run by is what I enjoy. N scale gives me a bigger layout. Sweet tea for me.
Agree 100%
One other issue that should be mentioned is that N has a significantly more difficult time maintaining electrical contact between the engine and the track. Lighter weight, smaller contact area are reasons. They way I work to over come this problem is to wire the frames of permanently pairs engines together they effectively double the number of contact points to the rails for both engines.
I've only had contact problems on turnouts. I decided for my current layout to ditch manufactured turnouts and buuld my own. They are smooth as silk and rarely give me any issues. I think the point geometry on Atlas turnouts is off so wheels try to climb the points instead of being guided by them. That issue was very bad when paired with an IM loco... basically unusable for me.
Or get the heavy kato steam bigboy
Happy Thanksgiving! When I started planning my layout a couple of years ago I was drawn to the look of N-scale. It conveys a sense of space that is harder to capture in HO without sacrificing a lot in variety and functionality. However, after having a couple of opportunities to participate in operating sessions with both HO and N I realized that I would never be able to effectively manage N scale trains with my chunky hands. I would HIGHLY recommend anyone debating between the two scales get some hand-on experience with both before making any decisions.
Touche' ! While I don't have big hands , You've got a GREAT POINT .
'whilst looking at an Even Smaller gauge, the Hobby Shop Owner wryly asked me if I was a JEWELER ... which stopped me dead in my tracks & opened my eyes ...
There's things having Nothing to do with Trains, that can have EVERYTHING to do with your choice of scale
My main gripe about n scale is not with the product or support from the model train manufacturers, it is with the medical community. Don't they know that we n scalers, as we age, need more special attention to our diminishing dexterity, eyesight etc? Why isn't this a priority? N scalers deserve bionic and reconstituted senses and appendages as much as modelers of other scales.🤣
My observations on scale:
The smaller you go, the more scenery you can do. I've noticed smaller scale models seem to emphasise the world the trains roll in, and not necesarily the trains themselves. This makes sense; trains don't exist without industries and/or passengers to transport.
Larger scales tend to emphasise the vehicles and detail, with less mainline running. This also makes sense in context; most people are limited for room; and will sacrifice mainline length in order to have industries to actually service.
There are *many* exceptions of course, and club layouts are... a different experience; and if you've found your happy place in train modelling, you are doing it right, whatever that might look like for you.
I've modelled in HO, lego trains (highly recommend a few for little kids who are prone to breaking things), and I'm starting my 7.25" gauge retirement project, as well as family being heavily into N scale.
And... I'm drinking nescafe blend 43. I feel like the catchphrase should be something like "It's caffenated, and tastes tolerable!" :P I kid, it's not bad, it's just instant.
And cheaper
I run N scale mostly for space constraints. One thing that I struggle most with is DCC/Sound decoders and their reliability. I wish there was enough room in your average N scale chassis for some kind of keep-alive or capacitor bank as the much lighter weight of N scale locomotives makes their electrical contact not as reliable. That and price. It seems like H.O. scale is still the sweet spot for model railroading when it comes to affordability per piece, especially locomotives, road selection, second hand market, quality, reliability, details, etc.
I’m just starting in N scale, but have made conscious decisions about my locomotive purchases to only buy those with capacitors. For example, the Atlas S4 does not have a capacitor and from what I’ve learned online and from an in-store demo, it seems to have issues with sound cutting out as it momentarily loses perfect contact and conduction with the tracks. The small size and light weight of the switcher exacerbates this. The Broadway Limited SW7 switcher, on the other hand, does include a capacitor and apparently that does the trick, to the point where I haven’t come across concerns about sound cutting out or jerkiness through switches.
I hope over time the inclusion of a capacitor will become standard and a non-negotiable part of N scale locomotives. I think it also underscores the importance of using good quality track, ensuring tight fits, protecting the rails during ballasting and weathering, and ensuring there are an appropriate number of strategically placed power feeder/drops to ensure the layout is well supplied with power.
When it come to DCC sound, there just isn’t much room for a speaker in most locomotives. Often track noise will drown out the sounds from tiny speakers. I’ve modified frames, cut away spaces to make room for a speaker, the horn or bell being the only sound you can really hear. If you saved money and just went DCC without sound, I wouldn’t blame you. When you compare to HO sound cards, it’s day and night, they are much louder. But, I spent the time and effort to put sound in my N scale locomotives. And I’ve even put larger sound chips and speakers in a box car! Which worked fairly well as long as it’s close to the engine.
I modify every single car, I put steel wheels, and lead weights in all my N scale cars to standards, no expensive N scale car weighs correctly from the store, they all need to have weight added. This really adds some comfort to the hobby, the cars stay on track and roll much more smoothly. And act a bit more realistically. Although, you can’t pull but so many cars up a hill.
I chose N scale for space, at the time I simply didn’t have room to turn an HO around. When I first started there was so little available for N scale, I’m pleased to see that manufacturers are making more N scale products. In recent years I’ve neglected the hobby, but I think if I ever get back into it, I’ll go with HO, as my eyesight just isn’t what it used to be.
Hi Jimmy! My biggest problem in N scale is couplers. They mostly seem to all work together, but a few don’t seem to get along with each other.
I've gone full evolution with N since I started in 1972. The first engine was a TRIX 0-4-0 and it still runs. I love the progress we have made and I agree with all that you say about the pitfalls. I look at all the past frustration as educational and it made me a better modeler. So as I sit here drinking coffee and watching outstanding videos from you and others I plan my next steps. Thanks for the great work.
I am happy with oo
Good morning, Jimmy, and Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family. I started in this hobby in December 1964, just after my third birthday, when my older brother, who was six, got an HO scale trainset for the holidays, and I fell in love with it. Over these years I've been primarily in HO scale. For a brief while I had a G scale collection, and I also had three-rail scale O as well (I have a few pieces left as mementos. As for N scale, I've been in it three times. First was in the mid 1970s when I had a small loop using Aurora Postage Stamp trains. The little layout had basic scenery and buildings. That ended when I had some issues expanding it, and my father threw a fit and destroyed the layout (very sad). The second time was briefly in the late 1980s when I got involved with N-Trak. Now I've been back in N scale for the past year because the club that I'm a member of has both HO and N scale layouts. Because I was helping out on the N scale layout I decided to get some trains to run on it. All of my engines have sound, either factory or installed by me. Besides the club layout I also am working on a small layout for my apartment. It is a two feet by four feet oval, using Atlas and Peco code 80 track on Kato cork roadbed. The minimum radius is 11 inches.
I agree with you issues regarding N scale. Because of the more temperamental nature of steam locomotives (they can be annoying in HO scale as well) I am limiting myself to just diesels. Switching can be tricky, as you said, because the of small size and light weight of the cars. I purchased some Rix uncoupling tools to help. And yes, is there is far less available in N than in HO. The fact that HO has a far greater following is largely the reason for that.
My main issue with N scale is the lack of vehicles compared to HO.
In HO you have a big variety of vehicles of all types, and for most eras. With N scale you have a small selection, and most of those are European for modern Era, but for American it's primarily transition Era vehicles.
In Japan, the variety of N-scale trains, i.e. bullet trains and commuter trains is extensive. The major Japanese brands are Kato and Tomix.
Excellent comments...
My Dad had an o27 Lionel train that was only set up at Christmaes each year. Then I got an N scale train from my uncle for xmas in 1974. I had it under my bed and it was a little difficult to work with but I LOVED it... Then comes the three fumes, Locker-room fumes, Car fumes , and perfumes... I kept it all but started my kids on HO Scale... it worked out they loved it... but they too now are busy and the very expensive stuff sits in boxes.... My wife saw my N Scale back 20 years ago at Christmas and said OK I am ready for you to make a permanent layout... (Good wife eh)... Well that never happened - yet. I fell in love with S Scale but haven't pursued that yet... NOW my grandchildren are about 4-5 years old and I must set up the O27 train so they can't break it etc... Sooo the dilemma has gone full circle... I think an N scale coffe table under glass layout is in my future...
Will the circle go unbroken , eh !?
I love n scale but I wish tt 1:120 scale would become more popular, it's a nice in size in between n scale and ho scale, big enough to handle easily like ho but small enough to pack more in a given space like n.
Based TT enjoyer
I collect 7 different Scales and found TT as The BEST 🏆 for the very reasons you've stated ... but it's just not popular & takes a back-seat - - -
Otherwise, N is home base
Good points! It is nice to see more manufacturers expanding their catalogs with more N scale items. Thanks again for another refreshing "Coffee and Trains". Happy Thanksgiving
I am an HO scale guy primarily because I had HO as a little kid in the early 80s, but I do love the big senic landscaping you can do in n scale! I also love the long trains you can build in n scale! Thanks Jimmy for another great Coffee and Trains! Have a great Thanksgiving! SAK
Folgers Black Silk here. When i got back into the hobby 8-9 years ago, I went with N as I was living in an apartment at the time. Went through three layouts there, building quite a collection along the way. Now I'm building version 4 in a 1-car garage. Thought about switching to HO, but the extra space would really serve an N scale layout well. Plus with so much invested in N scale already, it'd be a massive pain to try to sell it all to rebuild in HO.
Hey Jimmy, Happy Turkey Day! I’m drinking good ‘ol hazelnut Keurig coffee this early am in Colorado. N scale rocks and I’m getting used to the size as my eyes get older. 😂
New to the hobby and looking at N scale; this video is a big help. Thank you!
Regarding fragility of small parts: don't think that switching to HO scale will solve the problem. I have owned three HO scale steam locomotives: an Athearn Genesis 4-6-6-4 Challenger, a Proto 2000 2-8-8-2, and a Brodway Limited 2-8-2. ALL of these locomotives had very fragile parts and mechanisms - to the point where I didn't want to keep them on my layout for fear they'd get bumped, and I didn't want to keep putting them in their storage containers and getting them back out. In addition, I bought a Scale Trains Rivet Counter SD-40, and one small piece was knocked off just putting the locomotive on the track the very first time!
Here's what *I* love about N scale: the decoders! I can mount an N scale decoder in my HO locomotives with NO problem! So, thanks N scale!
I started in N SCALE in the 60s with a postage stamp Santa Fe F7 freight set that came in a box with power pack an track that went on a bookshelf when not in use. I have switched scales several times but have always come back to N Scale.
I totally agree with all the points in your post. I’m currently switching from HO to N scale and quickly learning about the limited selection in N scale compared to HO.
This is objective and I love it. Everyone has issues with scales they are in. But very few are willing to talk about the issues their scale face. Mainly looking at the O scale guys.
The o scale lads in Ireland are great craic
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family,i do agree with you about the lack of items for n scale i see things that I would like to get for my layout but they are only available in ho scale
Thank you for that information on n scale, I’m in the process of selling my ho scale items & going n scale. So thanks again Jimmy. 👍👍
Happy Thanksgiving! I was N scaler as a kid, and still love it. However when I got my first house and started thinking about a first layout, I sold it all and switched to HO for all of the product reasons you just described. It’s been 18 years now, and I have become an avid HO guy, but I still have a soft spot for N scale!
I started off in oo and still am in it
I thought about tinkering with N a couple of times because of the prices, passenger sets available from KATO that are either unavailable or way more expensive in HO, a lot more to model in a small space, etc. but always come back to HO because of the benefits to me that outweigh the pros in N plus I already have a huge collection accumulated in HO.
Happy Thanksgiving! Like you i consider myself the fan N scaler too, but have some HO to run in San Diego musium. But not as muce. Ive petty much been in N since the beginning. But recently got in to G scale as a way of doing a big laout for the kids in my neighborhood to get them into trains😊
Hi Jimmy, Happy Thanksgiving!
(I'm drinking Green mountain Sumatra, this morning).
Yeah back in the seventies, I was considering N scale, but a lack of selection at that time, the rail height somehow seemed to high.
It's great that N-Scale has come a long long way since those early days, though.
N scale, has the the ability, to make a a lot more scenery.
I started out with n scale because I volunteered at Union Station in Kansas City doing scenery, operating and maintaining Grandpa’s Attic, a large n scale layout that aspired to become interactive. That led me to building two bedroom layouts at home and joining an nTrak club (actually several clubs). I’ve changed to HO for several reasons: age has brought on tremors in my hands which makes detailed work frustrating, and the issues you mentioned. I wish I could still do n scale because I now have much more room and could build a really nice layout, but n scale also remains a bit pricier than HO which is where used equipment comes into play. As you said, HO is further evolved than n scale, but it also is available used at a much higher level of quality than similar aged n scale equipment. So, reluctantly I made the switch to HO, but I haven’t been able to part with my n scale stuff yet. Maybe someday.
I love N scale! My Dad and I built a small layout in the ‘70s and it’s been a favorite ever since. A few years ago I went on a binge of adding DCC to some of my newer locos, and a couple weeks ago picked up my first DCC sound loco from my LHS. It’s an Atlas Gold Series SD-9 and it’s amazing. I’m about ready to built my next layout!
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours, Keep up the good work. 🦃🦃🦃🌲🌲🏝🏝🎄🎄🎄
It’s a pleasure listening to you. I’m on the verge of starting in N-scale. The layout needs to fit in an IKEA Ivar shelving unit. I’m learning a lot from you and other youtubers. Thanks.
Man, everytime I think I know what I want to do, I watch one of your videos and it makes me question myself! I just rediscovered trains last month, and I have no clue where to start! I’ve watched a ton of your videos. They are very helpful and informative! Thank you!
The best advice I can give is to make a list of what you want and see which scale will get you the most things.
@@DIYDigitalRailroad I really like steam locomotives, don’t ask me why. I loved your videos on the big boy and Y6B, but a lot of people in the FB group I’m in didn’t recommend them for beginners. I also want sound, lights and smoke!
@@adammorrow5981 - I had a friend who shared your last name, but his first name was Dave. I got a Marx 027-gauge train set in 1969 - Dave got one in 1970. I got a TYCO HO train set in 1973 - Dave got one in 1974!
HO scale here, but every time im at my local hobby shop i always stop to admire this beautiful set of Kato coaches. Also i believe Fleischmann and Roco merged at some point so their N scale stuff is under the fleischmann name while HO is under Roco. Good to know if you like the European engines like i do.
I agree with some of your points about N scale - I’ve had the same issues with my layout. Product availability is still tough. There are for instance too many road vehicles that are from the fifties but not much modern makes and models. That’s where 3d printing comes in! Either by using a service like Shapeways or buying a 3d resin printer, you don’t need to rely on the mass production companies putting out the models that you need. N scale is still my preferred scale as I can get a lot more layout in a smaller space plus I find that I don’t have to stress so much at the tiniest of details as you can’t see them anyways. Another important tool to have is an airbrush so that you can paint tiny objects without obscuring details and avoid brush strokes which in N scale are more out of scale.
I’ve been modeling in N Scale since I decided to start a real layout, and I can definitely feel the frustration of product selection being limited, especially when it comes to buildings. Even though there still isn’t a 1-1 selection for most building kits in N/HO, I’m still making it work as best I can by kitbashing. I really hope that in the future there will be a bit more equanimity between HO and N scales in that regard
Another great video Jimmy. I confess that even with ageing eyes and fingers I am still an N scale convert and addict. Just trying to build a Steampunk loco body and am struggling with eyes and fingers. Just takes longer. 🇵🇹
Thanks Jimmy for your insight in to HO and N scale trains. I do love Kato trains.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING 🦃
GOD BLESS 🚂💖🚂💖🚂💖🚂💖
I am a n scaler just due to the factors of space and cost. You mentioned Bachman and I recently got the 2-8-8-4. I am impressed by it. I do hope more companies start producing more product with excellent detail. I thinks it way cool BLI is releasing steam locomotives with smoke. It’s no comparison to h/o or O but I’ll take it and I am looking forward to new releases.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family. My problem with N scale is lack of Mideast road names. Early on couplers were Rapido. DCC wasn’t on the horizon when I started. I went to multiple cabs (figured that 3 was good enough). I really like Inter Moutain (very fine detail on their rollling stock). Still trying to get a Cab Forward from them. I had to get one after I sat in the cab on the only remaining one in California. As an aside Anthern only recently has gotten into N scale. Because of this old fossils such as myself don’t even look or consider them.
Remember that most kids started with O gauge (and those trains really got loved). May want to build a shelf shunting layout in O scale for your son. I still have my Plasticville train station. Cheers and best wishes.
Just joined your channel as I’m truly impressed by your dedication and commitment. I’ve been in and out of the hobby since childhood. Always was Ho. But the space available to me now is limited. Wanting to get into N.
Long time since i've done anything about it, but i primarily have HO scale because my dad had it, and his BR89 005 from 1964 still runs like a champ with just the addition of a decoder to run with digital controllers. I feel like it's probably the best size for being able to have really high details and trains running smoothly on the tracks without getting to big, but i definitivly get the point of getting a "bigger layout" in a small space
I probably should have built my layout in "N" scale, but all of my accumulated stock, loco, tracks and scenery was in "HO" scale. The room I built my layout was fairly small 11'x12". That presented a challenge, but through a creative bridge design I came up with a solution. I 've been watching your channel for about four years now and you have a wealth of knowledge on my build. Thank You.work
Great subject Jimmy’. I run N scale for one reason… space… I have my garage counter and H/O would not give me room to run anything. But I love my N scale because … I just do. But I’m interested in the skewer you mentioned. I’m not getting any luck with the under track magnets
Happy Thanksgiving!
I have pizza-cutter N scale models... but it's all European outline (Roco, Fleischmann, Arnold, etc.) that I inherited from a mentor of mine when he left the hobby, so I just run that as a class of models together. I love US and Australian prototype too... but as I've never owned that in N scale before it's all new, so that gear has now standardised on knuckle couplers. I'm not above running both European and US on my layout though... just for the love of it, but in separate trains 🙂
Happy Thanksgiving!!
I collect a mix of HO and OO. My biggest gripe is that These run on the same track but aren't the same scale. I want my model of the Eisenhower A4 to be the same scale as my Big Boy, but it can't. There is a historical reason for OO being a separate scale, but I feel like they could ditch it if they wanted to.
It’s been a dream to build an HO scale layout I’m in the process right now. I’ve built 2 N scale layouts from old countertops. I still have one I finished this year.
Just started in the hobby and decided on N for the space saving aspect. I also bought a T starter set just because it's so tiny( total impulse buy).
Thanks to your talks I’ve been able to decide on what size train I want to by, don’t care about scenery at this time and just like watching the trains move. Decided to by a Kati and Bachman N gauge Starter sets and run on separate tracks. No switches, don’t want to be concerned about collisions and switch tracks seem to be a never ending source of derailing.
I started N scale when I was a kid in the late 70s. Had to drive (or parents drive me) 50 miles to a hobby shop which carried N scale. Got a lot of great stuff and now that I'm back into it, I am struggling big time upgrading these nice cars (Atlas, Rapido, Minitrix) upgraded to run with modern equipment. PITA
A couple more advantages I like about N scale is the prices are much lower than HO, so you can afford more. Maybe less important to some, the smaller size means less storage space needed for equipment and boxes
Currently drinking Folger's Dark Roast coffee. One thing that can be a problem with N Scale is getting the shell off of the locomotive to do maintenance. I have an Atlas RS3 (during their partnership with Kato in the early 90's), trying to get the shell off is downright diabolical. Later retooled variants of the RS3 (after they parted ways with Kato in the mid 90's) have a shell that's easier to get off.
You have a fine layout there ! Very good Jim ...I hope to build another one day with my loving wife's help🩵
John Armstrong in his book _Creative Model Railroad Design_ devoted a chapter to "Model Railroad Design as Influenced by Scale and Gauge". I recommend this book if you can find a copy.
Drinking Jim's Organic Coffee / _Wonderbrew_ this morning.
This was very informative..thanks!
Glad your son at 4 likes trains. I wanted trains at 5-6. Got a Tyco HO Set at 6 for Christmas. Been doing trains ever since. N Scale since early 80’s. I’m 68 now. 😊 I Still have my First Tyco 0-4-0 Switcher and the B&O Caboose that I did a Funky paint job on. Think I’ll return it to Original Scheme….
What I really love is TT 1:120 scale. Not as fiddely as N but still a lot smaller than H0. I just wish availability was better.
I used to use that when I was starting out with model railroading (in Germany). But then I lost interest for a few years, and when I started again, I started with N scale, because the product availability is so much better. Even just being at the west end of Germany means it's basically impossible to find any TT in model railroad stores. My father still has TT scale, and when I put my locomotives next to his, there's no denying his look a bit better. There is more detail and you can see it better. But he is also sometimes a bit jealous of my collection, because there are so many beautiful things I have that will almost certainly never be available for TT. It's a mixed bag either way.
I love booth HO and N scale, I'm really big into telling a story with my scenery. (something i can't do as well in HO with my limited space) My current layout I'm working on is a DC HO layout ( the largest table layout I've been able to make to date) and depending on a few factors will probably by my last HO layout before i switch to N scale. I'm planning to make a multi level N scale layout where every level tells a different story/modeled to look like a different part of America.
Great video. I did HO in the 90’s (high school) and just started N with my son who is now 5. The small size can be challenging. But I like scenery, too. What was that beautiful blue steam locomotive at the end of this video?
Drinking Kauai coffee as I watched this! Been doing N scale since 1972! So so much better now for sure
Let me throw in another “con” from a 63 year old who’s been in N since the mid 70’s (and boy, there was some sure enough junk manufactured back then!). My biggest problem with N scale is that I can no longer see it well enough to enjoy it! Formerly simple tasks like placing a car or loco on the track are now only accomplished with the use of my opti-visor, and that’s just not fun! I will probably dismantle my 6’x13’ layout soon (it’s totally portable in 4 sections, but attempts to sell it have resulted in zero responses), and am actually thinking of replacing it with an On30 shelf layout. That layout will be mainly comprised of scratch built structures and cars because it’s cheap and easier to see! Moral of the story: if you’re young, in N scale, and want to stay in it into your late years, don’t go into welding as an occupation! Lol
Great video, matches what I'm experiencing as well, both the good and the bad! At the end of the day it's not really a question for me; I don't have enough space for H0 (or TT), and Z is too fiddly. But there's no denying that every gauge has its trade-offs, and it's a matter of personal preference.
The DCC thing seems to be specific to the US (and Japan), and by that I mean mostly Kato. It's sad how they still make us buy board replacement decoders and call that DCC friendly, when standard plugs have been widespread and standard in all European rolling stock for ages. It's great that the other manufacturers of American trains are now catching up, but I still hope Kato learns this as well. (It doesn't help that I'm not overly fond of Digitrax decoders)
I love running my HO scale because that's what my dad used and I also got Lego scale trains too which are more kid friendly.
1990's? You're still wet behind the ears! I fell in love with N scale back in the early 1970's. I bought my first set when I was in the eighth grade? Precious memories, how do they linger. 😊
Thank you for a very informational video =I loved it
I mainly do ho scale but I've been also getting into n scale. N scale has some items I can not find or have trouble finding in ho scale such as the original TGV and Japan's original Shinkansen. As much as I could 3d print these models into ho scale. I don't have a 3d printer at the moment.
I decided to do ho scale in my apartment using 2.5x6ft folding tables with two side to side for the main loop and a couple sidings. Im saving up for another table and more track so that i can put one 90 degrees from the others for a switching yard. And my roommate decided to use the dining room table for his n scale
I have modeled N scale for the last 20 years mostly using Peco code 55, code 80 and now on my T-trak layout I have Kato unitrack. I have all of my cars weighted to NMRA standards, all MTL couplers with the trip pins cut off and all metal wheels.
Jimmy, thank you for your perspective. If I can ask a question, I am building a switching layout in my garage. I live in the northeast. Would Kato track be better to use than flex track and do the turnouts need to be insulated just as any PECO turnout would be. Let me know what you think. Thanks.
Hello Jimmy. Now you started in the 90's there is plenty of buildings now available and etc. There was like 6 to 10 building kits back in the 70's . Also with modifications there are more decoders available for N scale. Also the used market is great also if you look for it in the right places. N scale is great on space , But prices can be high sometimes. The main drawbacks are older 70's and early 80's locomotives and electronics. Then weight of cars and locomotives for pulling. Anyway i have had both since the late 70's and now primarily N scale.
My dad got me an O scale train set for Christmas when I was a toddler. It was a steam engine with a few freight cars and a caboose. That was my first taste of trains.
When I got older I got an HO scale train set. It came with a light switch engine and a few freight cars. By then I knew what my interest was and I wanted a modern passenger train.
So when I was a teen and was able to choose my own train set, I bought a Santa Fe streamlined passenger train set in N scale so I could fit more railroad on my bedroom floor.
As an adult, I realized that the selection of locomotives and rolling stock was too limited in N scale and it was difficult to work with, so I started collecting HO scale trains again. DCC had become commonplace, so I was able to buy everything DCC equipped without having to convert old stuff. Having grown up in the 80s and 90s, I chose Amtrak as my passenger railroad and Conrail as my freight railroad. I've also accumulated a number of obscure train sets like the Rapido APT-E, a Kato Shinkanssen, and the Hogwarts Express which are only available in HO as far as I know.
I also recently bought some O scale MTA subway cars by MTH that I run around a loop on my living room floor simply because nobody makes subway cars in HO scale.
good vid thanks lee
I have this same GP35 from when I was a kid, it holds a place in my heart, although it’s an oddball because it’s got super weird dimensions, the whole body is way too wide. It might not be noticeable by itself but next to any other GP locomotive you’ll see how strange it looks.
I typically drink Blue Horse Kona from Kona Hawaii, but today Im drinking Taste of DFW. I love my N scale RR. but i also have some Z and a T.
I grew up with N scale and am currently switching to H0 for better detailing. I’m going with H0e/009 tho, to allow tighter, smaller layouts (similar to N scale)
I also like 009. I also have a bit of standard gauge going on as a connection, but I mainly use it for the reduced track size while still having the availability in scenery.
If you have any N scale rolling stock, they can be useful for 009 reuse. I model a 1920s mine and use N scale 50 foot gondolas as stand ins for 25 foot rock cars. They might not look completely convincing, but for a niche car type they fill the roll nicely until I can come up with something closer to the prototype.
I was raised with H0 scale, got fascinated by smaller scaled, got Z scale, but I was young and found Z too bothersome, so I went N scale. But then I felt N was too big, and I discovered TGauge, which is more than half the size of Z scale! I'm absolutely in love with this tiny scale, not excited about the costs about this hobby in general, but excited to create cool transportable layouts in the tiny TGauge 1:450
The issues you have to fiddle with for TGauge is certainly different, especially if you want Decoders! Someone homemade them but no longer supply, so you need to craft your own decoder if you really need right now, but it very much is possible!
Love n scale due to the space size required to have a layout. Some items are hard to find (if made at all) like modern day vehicles. Been looking for pick up trucks mainly that are already done.
Back when I was a bit younger, I moved from HO to N-Scale. I ran N-Scale for more than 28 years and finally succumbed to the ravages of age in the form of my vision. Enter eBay and the great reduction of my N-Scale collection. Clearing the space allowed me (oh, and my wife's permission), to start moving back into HO. Luckily, the same eBay that allowed me to thin my N-Scale herd also allowed for some great HO finds. And, since I focus mainly on the transition era, I found loads of motive power and rolling stock in my favorite southern liveries (ACL, SAL, Southern, SCL, and the like) at bargain prices.
Now, I spend my modeling time going super-detailed on HO rolling stock with details that I couldn't even see on my N-Scale equipment.
Enjoy N-Scale while you can!
I grew up with HO. If I were going to get back in, I was seriously considering N, because you can run longer trains in less space and set up large passenger stations. Especially with Kato - and Tomix (though you'd have to import that here). Whereas HO tends to be oriented around single track freights (at least as I see it). But... I'm a bit ham fisted, which probably suggests sticking with HO.
I tried 'N' Scale back 1971 But, it didn't work out for me there wasn't enough accessories to go around. then i tried 'HO' which was better because it has more accessories than 'N' I been with 'HO' scale ever since. (No offense to the 'N' scalers and DYI) Also, At one time 'TT' scale was also the dominate small sized scale before 'N', 'TT' Scale is a smash hit in eastern Europe where its alive and well, And, It's Also making a comeback in the U.K. too, 'TT' scale is the size between 'HO' and 'N' Also, 'TT' scale originated here in the U.S.A. lasted up until the 60'S when 'N' scale came along.
Folgers 1/2 Caf. Been an N scaler since 1971.
Can you do a video on on fixing old Rolling Stock?
I model in HO because everything is more readily available (and my local club is HO) but when I head off to college I'm considering making a small, portable N-scale layout I can fit on a desk. I already struggle with handling my scaletrains rivet counter engine in HO, can't imagine handling one of those but 50% smaller in every dimension with all the detail they manage to retain.
We have a 3 year old and also train nuts. Loves watching Tweetsie.
When he is bit bigger then i will get a layout in HO.
Great video.
Dear Jimmy, definitely get your points on these, let’s say, issues with N scale. Would like to add there that it’s much harder to scratch build in all the scales beyond 1:87. Even though there’s a lot of great examples, it truly depends on one’s skills, eyesight and motor skills to become effluent in appropriately detailing N scale, where in the larger scales that’s less of an issue. Nevertheless, love the opportunities N scale offers, both in size of a layout and the fact that in the same amount of space longer runs can be modeled. Humbly think that the ever more availability of 3D printing and laser cutting, as well as CNC and other appliances will make an ever growing potential possible for N scale and the other smaller scales. Cheerio
Jimmy, no complaining about N scale ok! 😉 You have a 3D printer, you can make whatever you can't find in N that's available in HO! 👍 As for me, I was tempted to continue with HO scale after a 25year hiatus, but my main '2' reasons for choosing N was Kato and Micro-Trains! Also, the simple fact that you can cram so much in a 2x4' table compared to HO's 4x8'! I want to run trains along the side of rivers in huge forests like in the Rocky Mountains and doing that in HO scale would mean me having a layout the size of an ice-rink! lol Cheers! ☕
Since I have messed with multiple scales (mainly N and HO), I will agree that HO seems to have the market share. Advancements in tech have brought N scale a long way from what it was back in the 1970's when my Grandparents had it (yes, I still have the locos and rolling stock...layouts, not so much). I kinda wish I had dropped down to N scale when I started my latest layout, but I had amassed alot more HO then N. Kinda like you pointed out, my HO to N ratio is about 10:1 or higher. Eventually, my brother will take the N scale.
Are you thinking about really going to HO scale maybe in the future? Im having some tea here in Denmark 🙂 Here in eu there is also a "big" N brand called Fleischmann that has really good details and quality but mostly its Schweiz or German locomotives etc. :-)
I have both. But I have N at home and HO at the club I belong to. We also have O scale. Our club is the oldest in the USA starting in 1929! NYSME
HAPPY THANKSGIVING 🦃
Where did you get the N&W Pevler Blue Class Y? I've never seen one (real or model) in that paint scheme, but it looks beautiful.
Hello! Here it is! It's a Broadway Limited Y6B
factorydirecthobbies.com/products/preorder-bli-7226-n-w-y6b-2-8-8-2-2198-1960s-blue-22i-tender-paragon4-sound-dc-dcc-n-fantasy-paint-scheme?sca_ref=4342906.pSQXhFmxxc
Happy Tanksgiving
I do primarily ho and a bit of n bit hon30 is a good mix of the 2
It’s funny you mention availability because I’m in a strange situation where I can ONLY find an N-scale y6b, outside of brass HO models (and some “phantom” models that supposedly exist but have barely any evidence for them)
I've been into N scale since 1967 when I saw a small layout at my parent's friends house. All European prototype as that was all that was available at the time from Arnold Rapido and Mintirix. Then I saw the movie, "The Train" and have been into European trains ever since. I still have my first two Arnold locomotives and they will run but not very well so they have been retired to a display case. But I have other N scalel ocos that are late 70s and 80s vintage that are still running well on my layout which I have to say is pretty big. N scale locos were pretty crude back then and they were easy to service, but they had to be serviced often. Modern locomotives are way more sophisiticated and I really don't have to do anything to them, especially Kato and Hobbytrain items but I have to send them to a place in Virginia if they give me any problems. Fortuantely, that doesn't happen much anymore.
The price is what matters to me. I used to model railroad back in the 80's. I still have some HO equipment and I was thinking about getting back into the hobby ...UNTIL...I saw the prices at the hobby store. WHOA! Hard to believe how much prices have gone up. With groceries and clothes to buy, rent to pay, utilities and gas for the car I changed my mind. I'll leave it to the rich and just enjoy looking at what they have accomplished in the hobby.