Z Scale Trains

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Z-Scale Trains

Z Scale Trains are the smallest size of controllable electric trains that are widely available. Z-scale means that the models are 1/220 of the size of the real-life trains they are modeled after. The nice thing about this small size is that you can have a layout in a small amount of space -- including a briefcase, like the photo to the left. The most popular manufacturers of Z Scale Trains are Marklin and Micro-Trains, although models and layouts recently released by Tokyo Marui (see video below) may make them a contender in the future.

Besides briefcase layouts, the small size of Z-Scale enables all sorts of different applications, such as Christmas ornaments and Easter eggs with z-scale engines or wagens (freight cars) inside -- or 2 foot by 2 foot circular "Christmas wreath" layouts complete with winter village scenes (these are available from Noch and Micro-Trains).
Z-Scale Train Sets

5 Z Scale Trains in 2 ft. by 4 ft. Space

You can do a lot in a small space with Z scale trains!

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Getting started with Z Scale Trains

Starter sets are a good way to get started with Z-scale model trains. Starter sets generally have everything you need to begin running a train: engine, cars, track, power source and controller. As often times a starter set is something of a "loss leader" to get customers into the hobby, starter sets are usually an exceptional value with a price less than the sum of their contents if purchased separately. Also, there are often exceptional prices for starter sets on eBay (just watch the shipping charges), so please do take a look at the eBay selections listed below -- then scroll down to read about the types of z-scale track.

This site has some good deals on starter sets:
Z-Scale Train Sets

Tokyo Marui YouTube Video

Tokyo Marui has come out with modular ready-to-run layout combinations that are very reasonably priced, and offer lit passenger cars and 2-train operation. These sets are sold under the name Tokyo Marui Pro Z.
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Tokyo Marui Pro Z Set 

Z scale Track Options

When considering track for your Z scale layout, you have 2 basic choices: Marklin track or Micro-Trains track.

Marklin track: Marklin Z-scale track is "traditional" track without a plastic roadbed attached. While this type of track is not well-suited for use on carpeted surfaces, it is generally preferred for layouts -- where modelers often use a more realistic aggregate for the road bed.

Micro-Trains track: Micro-Trains makes track called, appropriately enough, Micro-Track. This track comes with a plastic "road bed" that is convenient for running on carpeted surfaces -- where the open spaces of traditional "bed-less" track can allow carpet to interfere with the proper functioning of your locomotive. So, it's more convenient for those who set up a train on their carpeted floor for a weekend, but (as noted above) not as favored for dedicated layouts.

Marklin Z Scale: "Crocodile" Electric Locomotive 

Marklin Z Scale

Marklin Z Scale, which is sometimes referred to as Marklin Mini Club, is where Z scale originated. I admit being somewhat partial to Marklin trains. One thing you can be sure of with Marklin is that small size does not mean that you are giving up quality. Marklin originated z-scale electric trains, and their German (DB) BR89 0-6-0 model is the smallest electric locomotive that is commercially available -- it's also the loco that comes with most of the less expensive starter sets.

Those sets generally come with the loco, 1 freight car, a small oval of track, and a controller/power source that runs off of a 9 volt battery. While the battery operated sets are fun and can be set up anywhere (most come in a compact case), control is limited to going full speed in either direction. This, of course, makes coupling something best done by hand. Sets that come with a battery controler are completely compatable with the plug-in transformers for z-scale, so you can start with these and add transformers and more track later.

The next step up in Marklin Z starter sets (with sets such as item no. 81562) includes a bigger steam engine and more freight cars -- and, most importantly, a plug-in transformer. With the transformer, you can run the train at variable speeds and couple cars the "right" way. You can also appreciate the Marklin quality by seeing how well the locos run at slower speeds. Going up in price, there are more options -- ranging from deluxe starter sets with electric turnouts to a set that is a ready-to-run layout in a briefcase.

For more information on Marklin trains, and some great deals, please visit:
Z-Scale Train Sets

Micro-Trains GP-35 

Micro-Trains Z Scale

Micro-Trains Line, also referred to as MTL, is also a leading manufacturer of Z-scale trains. MTL produces z scale model trains based on U.S. prototypes (real-world trains). MTL only produces diesel locomotives for Z scale, so if you want a steam locomotive, you will need to stick with Marklin. MTL locomotives can be purchased with either MTL Magne-Matic couplers or Marklin couplers. MTL produces some interesting starter sets with everything you need to get started. MTL also produces a great variety of freight cars, which also come with either Magne-Matic or Marklin couplers.

Micro-Trains on eBay

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Noch Briefcase Layout 

Noch Z Scale Layouts

German model maker Noch produces several interesting items for Z scale trains. Noch products range from ready-to-run briefcase layouts like the one above to pre-formed layouts (with geographical features formed, but you add your own rails, trees and buildings) as pictured below. If you're planning a Z scale layout, it would be worth your while to look at the offerings by Noch before you take the leap!

Z-Scale Train Sets

Noch Cortina Layout 

Noch Z Scale Products on eBay

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  • Reply
    kimark421 Jan 29, 2012 @ 5:47 pm | delete
    Very cool. I loved model trains as a kid, but never had Z scale. Hmmm....
  • Reply
    APackageAtTheDoor Jan 27, 2012 @ 1:24 am | delete
    Awesome lens. Haven't heard of Marui until your lens. We love Marklin! Also have some AZL and a bit of MTL. Thanks!
  • Reply
    jennifer99 Dec 16, 2011 @ 4:36 am | delete
    There are many options in creating scenery for Z scale model train layouts, but one element that you see commonly in model railroading is rock formations, which add tremendous realism and natural beauty to a layout. Of course you can buy rocks and boulders out of model train hobby store, or you can even use real rocks, which are inconvenient because of the weight they add to your layout. However, it's a lot of fun to create your own lightweight rock molds, and for Z scale in particular, this is a better way to control the size and shape of the formations in your layout. Plus, it can be done cheaply.
    o scale trains
  • Reply
    brianstuler99 Dec 15, 2011 @ 4:22 am | delete
    One of the smallest size is the Z scale trains, which are also some of the cheapest and more commonly bought for kids on their birthdays and Christmases specifically for this reason. However they are more rare than the HO and G gauge which makes finding bargains and sales for the Z scale trains much harder to find. The actual locomotives are retrospectively fitted with micro processors which are technologically well advanced considering what industry they are in.
    o scale trains
  • Reply
    ShirleySunshine Oct 26, 2011 @ 8:12 am | delete
    Great Lens, I love the Noch Cortina Layout, it looks fantastic!
  • Reply
    funwithtrains Mar 24, 2011 @ 7:53 am | delete
    Hi grandma_deal, thanks for the comment! I believe most MTL locomotives and train cars can be converted to use Marklin couplers. Have fun!
  • Reply
    grandma_deal Mar 24, 2011 @ 6:56 am | delete
    Never heard the term "Z-scale" before. I like miniature anything. These are awesome. Now I want one. A Question: Can a Marklin and an MTL have intermixed train cars? I am checking these out. Great Job!
  • Reply
    polly72 Jan 31, 2011 @ 5:09 am | delete
    cool lens
  • Reply
    smckittr Jul 5, 2009 @ 12:42 am | delete
    Wow I didn't realise there was more than one company manufacturing z scale
  • Reply
    motorpurrr Jan 1, 2009 @ 8:54 pm | delete
    Fantastic lens! I have yet to see a Z scale engine. I will make it a new goal.
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