How To Build A Model Train - Learning the Basics and Beyond

Okay, okay, I haven't gone off my rocker. This isn't about music, it's about how to build a model train that will fit your needs. But first of all you've got to figure out what your needs are. Determining the right size of scale for you can be a daunting task, so I want to help give you some clarity about what the different model train scales are.

We'll start with the Z scale which is the smallest. This model train scale Z is roughly in scale of 1:220. So these are quite tiny, but fun. Also, if you are just starting out and live in a small one bedroom apartment, this could be a perfect fit for you.

Next in size we have the second best selling model train size which is scale N. Scale N model trains have a 1:160 size and offer a lot of extras and updates because they are so popular. This is also a great choice for beginners or folks who have a smaller space in which to plan their model train track.

The most popular size of all time is the model train scale HO which has a rough scale of 1:87. These are popular amongst us model train engineers because I think they really allow a lot of hands-on flexibility. You can really get in and work on this model trains without having to have small hands and fingers. Plus the scalability of these trains is just phenomenal.

You'll also find the 0 scale model trains which are 1:48 so you'll need a bit of space to play around with these lads. Though this is the oldest model train scale size. Been around for at least a hundred years. There is also the T scale model trains which are all battery powered.

So you now know the scales of model trains that are available. I'd like to offer you some tips on how to build a model train so that you aren't wasting needless money. The best train companies are financially savvy. The same should go for us train model hobbyists.

Here is the first tip:

1. Create half a layout
This is a great idea when you're starting out. Don't get fooled into thinking how easy it is to build a large model train layout like you see at your local model train club. These layouts take tremendous amounts of time and money. Think of hundreds if not thousands of hours. Choosing a cleverly positioned train half layout will make your work easier to build on and give you something great to look at and share in half the time. Start your layout against the corner of 2 walls and build out. Adding some nice backdrops will really make your train layout look good.

I want to give you these last 2 tips on how to build a model train layout successfully so that you don't have to waste needless hours figuring this stuff out like I did.

2. Spend money on quality over quantity
As with most things in life, when you're buying anything the saying is that quality often costs a little bit more. This is especially true for us model train railroaders. This is a terrific and enjoyable hobby, and something that you'll be doing for years to come. So invest wisely in the beginning and it will pay you dividends down the road. Trust me, I had to learn this the hard way.

3. Records are a model train railroader's best friend
I started keeping records of my purchases, the dates and the money spent on trains, tracks and other stuff right from the beginning. This will help you budget and keep account of all your model train railroad purchases. This is a really great habit. It will save you a ton of headaches and frustrations down the road.

There you go my fellow model train railroaders. I hope this was helpful. There is a ton of further useful info at the links on this page. Go exploring and I'll see you across the tracks!