Untangle Model Train Scales by Scott Watkins
Gauge, scale, what’s the difference? Model train scales and gauges can be puzzling, mainly since they get mixed up, used incorrectly and interchangeably. If you want to get straightened out on the difference, and the importance, keep on reading.
Scale
I like to begin with scale, since that’s trickier. The scale of the model is the proportion between the size of the model and the size of the prototype, in this case, the real-life train or engine.
We all know that our model train is a miniature replica of a prototype. How did the producer know how to size everything? They “scaled it down!” How much? Well, that depends. Let’s say your model railroad is using the popular HO scale. Then your trains are 1/87th the size of the prototype. That is, for every foot of track, you are modeling 87 feet of railroad. A fifty foot locomotive prototype would be just under seven inches long.
The scale tells us the ratio of the size of prototype to the size of our model. In model railroading, scales are denoted by letters or a combination of letters, such as ‘G’, ‘O’, ‘HO’ and so on.
Gauge
You may have heard or read of HO ‘gauge.’ Gauge and scale, in model railroading, are only loosely related. Gauge is the distance between the tracks of the railroad. Prototype railroads have various gauges, you may have heard of ‘narrow gauge’ railroads.
So for each scale of model railroad, the track gauge must be “scaled down” from the prototype. And for some of the scales of model railroads, the actual ratio was first determined from scaling down the prototype track gauge to a desired gauge.
About 60% of the world uses Standard gauge track, which is 4 feet 8 ½ inches (1,435mm). Narrow gauge is smaller than this, and “broad gauge” are obviously wider.
Model train scales began to be standardized after World War 2, when manufacturers wanted to ensure that locomotives and rolling stock were compatible across different track manufacturers. Track gauges were the simplest area to be standardized. The NMRA in the US, and the MOROP in Europe now keep all standards for model railways.
I hope this brief explanation and overview have cut through the confusion about scale and gauge, and given you a taste of why they have evolved into what they are. Now, go on out there and have some fun with your trains!
About the Author
Scott Watkins is a model railroad enthusiast, and he can help you to get started quickly in this great hobby. His free 12 part mini course on getting started with model trains provides more information about model train scale, and more, and you can begin your subscription right now at his website.
M62, 2M62 (2М62-962Б) BR120 model train HO scale
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