Are you happy with the scale you picked vs the space you have?

[Marlin39]

If anyone is willing to help me design a layout I be greatful, As much as I would love to consult a Professional I just can't afford that. If your interested in helping a fellow modeler out. Just DM me..

Here's what you do and people will probably respond with ideas....

1. Give us your footprint
2. Tell us if you want continuous run or point to point
3. Do you want a switching layout or just some industries to place cars
4. DC or DCC
5. Your on a budget so you probably want the minimal amount of switches necessary. Give us a number.
6. Sectional or flex track
7. Do you want to deal with grades, bridges, and tunnels

 

[TheXModelRailroader]

If anyone is willing to help me design a layout I be greatful, As much as I would love to consult a Professional I just can't afford that. If your interested in helping a fellow modeler out. Just DM me..

Thanks for all the wonderful comments. and helping me sort this out of my head.

I would gladly help, but I have never built a layout before (As mentioned).
But if you want to talk (Share your ideas) I'm here and open to it! I would love to help if I can.

 

[Bushel86]

If anyone is willing to help me design a layout I be greatful, As much as I would love to consult a Professional I just can't afford that. If your interested in helping a fellow modeler out. Just DM me..

Here's what you do and people will probably respond with ideas....

1. Give us your footprint
2. Tell us if you want continuous run or point to point
3. Do you want a switching layout or just some industries to place cars
4. DC or DCC
5. Your on a budget so you probably want the minimal amount of switches necessary. Give us a number.
6. Sectional or flex track
7. Do you want to deal with grades, bridges, and tunnels

Yeah I'll start a new thread. I have anyrail. So I can Show the room layout.

 

[TheXModelRailroader]

BTW, I will be praying for your healing buddy! If its in His will, you will get better. In the mean time keep chugging (No pun intended) forward.

 

[Guilford Railman]

Ho scale is Probably always going to be my first choice. it is what I grew up with as well. And See what you are looking for in your layout is something similar. I think for me I am ok with doing either city or rural, But I think mostly I love shortline and branchline industrual settings.

When You talked about Scenic running thats kinda how I felt with N scale the dead space between industries having that scenic space to kinda rail fan. before the next Job. In the Space we have I have a hard time Picturing being able to achieve it. But I think I get to cought up on the track plan That I never get things built and actually run to see if I would enjoy it.. Maybe need to change that...

If you’re mostly interested in a branchline or a short line, that could certainly still have some potential to include portions of “dead space” and separate the job sites.

It is definitely tough to find a balance and incorporate all the elements we want into the space we have.

Have you thought about creating a list of what you’re looking for in a layout and narrowing it down to what’s reasonable for the space you have?

I believe in an earlier post you posted measurements for the space you had? You’ve also now decided on HO scale which narrows it down. With that information, combined with your idea of wanting to do a short line/branchline, I’d start experimenting with ideas on how many industries you can realistically place in your given space while leaving plenty of empty space.

Hope this helps!

 

[ctclibby]

You right Its bad thing I do lol Forgive me.. for the over thinking and the million word essay. I wish I could afford to consult lance Buthis Prices and my Disability Income do Not match. and He makes no exemptions. So I'm having to do everything myself. and Having a brain injury makes that harder. But oh well I will manage.

In a way yes I am contradicting myself, But Also not.. OK so If I am standing there watching trains run the whole layout in circles. after the frist lap I basicly bored. But if I am at my work bench working on a model and watch the train pass by every now again as a rail fan. that is different. Because I am not actually watching it go around in circles. But even that get old for me. But it does help stretch the neck when I look up after working on a model for a while lol.

And your layout seems to be about what I am after.


I love O scale 2 rail. LOve the detail of it, But I agree it is Too Big, and to Expensive.
I agree Ho is perfect in a lot of ways.


Ho scale is Probably always going to be my first choice. it is what I grew up with as well. And See what you are looking for in your layout is something similar. I think for me I am ok with doing either city or rural, But I think mostly I love shortline and branchline industrual settings.

When You talked about Scenic running thats kinda how I felt with N scale the dead space between industries having that scenic space to kinda rail fan. before the next Job. In the Space we have I have a hard time Picturing being able to achieve it. But I think I get to cought up on the track plan That I never get things built and actually run to see if I would enjoy it.. Maybe need to change that...

Thanks for the Replys

Bushel: I am probably like some of the folks here - N is just to small. I did N for awhile way back when but the products available were lacking; then I found out that my eyesight was getting worse. So HO. Look into actually doing a 'givens and druthers' type of list. This will help you whittle down what you want with what you can do - space requirements are probably the most important, everything else kinda falls into place with whatever decisions you make; minimum curve radii, industry/building size, siding/yards lengths ..etc. Yes, the everything else stuff can change so don't worry about it too much. For instance, I have a bigger space available and did that on purpose as I want somewhat long trains with both switching and continuous running, bigger industry to be closer to the 1:1; Ya, smaller stuff too. Ops are also planned in. Just remember this is fun and going through the process will get you what you want.

L8r

 

[Frenchie]

Bushel: I am probably like some of the folks here - N is just to small. I did N for awhile way back when but the products available were lacking; then I found out that my eyesight was getting worse. So HO. Look into actually doing a 'givens and druthers' type of list. This will help you whittle down what you want with what you can do - space requirements are probably the most important, everything else kinda falls into place with whatever decisions you make; minimum curve radii, industry/building size, siding/yards lengths ..etc. Yes, the everything else stuff can change so don't worry about it too much. For instance, I have a bigger space available and did that on purpose as I want somewhat long trains with both switching and continuous running, bigger industry to be closer to the 1:1; Ya, smaller stuff too. Ops are also planned in. Just remember this is fun and going through the process will get you what you want.

L8r

Concerning visual acuity we will all end up dealing with G scale, perhaps...

 

[Bushel86]

Bushel: I am probably like some of the folks here - N is just to small. I did N for awhile way back when but the products available were lacking; then I found out that my eyesight was getting worse. So HO. Look into actually doing a 'givens and druthers' type of list. This will help you whittle down what you want with what you can do - space requirements are probably the most important, everything else kinda falls into place with whatever decisions you make; minimum curve radii, industry/building size, siding/yards lengths ..etc. Yes, the everything else stuff can change so don't worry about it too much. For instance, I have a bigger space available and did that on purpose as I want somewhat long trains with both switching and continuous running, bigger industry to be closer to the 1:1; Ya, smaller stuff too. Ops are also planned in. Just remember this is fun and going through the process will get you what you want.

L8r

I find N scale is perfect size if you like big scenes and buildings to look ok and decient. But after experimenting on N scale I find that some things Don't scale down very well. Like Metal sidings. Sure you can make metal siding look good in N scale. But the smallest Peak and valley spacing in Ho is still large in N scale and is somthing that is acceptable for looks but. When really looking for accuracy. it is out of place in some building situations. But again that isn't a deal breaker and there is always a work around. But even that small minor inaccuracy I find. I still haven't ruled it out. I am actually on another thread Designing a layout in Ho scale. I will also Design the same layout. I N scale. and then finalize my decision. But for now I am sticking to Ho scale.

As far as making a list givens and druthers, I did multiple times. and it always changes. So i Decided The few things that don't change is the fact I want a Short line. Industrial setting. and a minimum of 4 Industries. everything else is just well always changing.

I am like you I like having buildings closer to 1:1 scale and that why N scale appeals to me. But While my eye sight isn't 20/20 anymore and I just got new Prescription Its not terrable either. So I still have that going for me. But I'm 70% committed to Ho at the moment.

 

[Frenchie]

I find N scale is perfect size if you like big scenes and buildings to look ok and decient. But after experimenting on N scale I find that some things Don't scale down very well. Like Metal sidings. Sure you can make metal siding look good in N scale. But the smallest Peak and valley spacing in Ho is still large in N scale and is somthing that is acceptable for looks but. When really looking for accuracy. it is out of place in some building situations. But again that isn't a deal breaker and there is always a work around. But even that small minor inaccuracy I find. I still haven't ruled it out. I am actually on another thread Designing a layout in Ho scale. I will also Design the same layout. I N scale. and then finalize my decision. But for now I am sticking to Ho scale.

As far as making a list givens and druthers, I did multiple times. and it always changes. So i Decided The few things that don't change is the fact I want a Short line. Industrial setting. and a minimum of 4 Industries. everything else is just well always changing.

I am like you I like having

I find N scale is perfect size if you like big scenes and buildings to look ok and decient. But after experimenting on N scale I find that some things Don't scale down very well. Like Metal sidings. Sure you can make metal siding look good in N scale. But the smallest Peak and valley spacing in Ho is still large in N scale and is somthing that is acceptable for looks but. When really looking for accuracy. it is out of place in some building situations. But again that isn't a deal breaker and there is always a work around. But even that small minor inaccuracy I find. I still haven't ruled it out. I am actually on another thread Designing a layout in Ho scale. I will also Design the same layout. I N scale. and then finalize my decision. But for now I am sticking to Ho scale.

As far as making a list givens and druthers, I did multiple times. and it always changes. So i Decided The few things that don't change is the fact I want a Short line. Industrial setting. and a minimum of 4 Industries. everything else is just well always changing.

I am like you I like having buildings closer to 1:1 scale and that why N scale appeals to me. But While my eye sight isn't 20/20 anymore and I just got new Prescription Its not terrable either. So I still have that going for me. But I'm 70% committed to Ho at the moment.

I agree concerning scenery possibilities in N scale. I find the rails too big and too high, even code 55. It is obvious on close-up photos. Code 40 is closer to scale but not so easy to work with.
Not for me anymore, I am now in the HO compatible age. Hopefully O scale is not around the corner, I can't afford it.

buildings closer to 1:1 scale and that why N scale appeals to me. But While my eye sight isn't 20/20 anymore and I just got new Prescription Its not terrable either. So I still have that going for me. But I'm 70% committed to Ho at the moment.

 

[DeaconKC]

I had a limited space [6'8" wide by no more than 3' deep] so I went with N scale. I did want to just watch trains run sometimes and a little bit of switching. I still can have a really nice scenery ratio, which is N scale's strength. I miss the detail opportunities of HO however and still wish I had a little more room so I could have done HO.

 

[Bushel86]

I agree concerning scenery possibilities in N scale. I find the rails too big and too high, even code 55. It is obvious on close-up photos. Code 40 is closer to scale but not so easy to work with.
Not for me anymore, I am now in the HO compatible age. Hopefully O scale is not around the corner, I can't afford it.

100% agree. I Only like O scale 2 rail. Because I find 3 rail unrealistic and even for the locomotive truck swing I just have a hard time with 3 rail O scale. But O scale 2 rail..... If I Had the room and Mostly the money that would be my Prefered Scale.

I had a limited space [6'8" wide by no more than 3' deep] so I went with N scale. I did want to just watch trains run sometimes and a little bit of switching. I still can have a really nice scenery ratio, which is N scale's strength. I miss the detail opportunities of HO however and still wish I had a little more room so I could have done HO.

Yeah N scale definatly Limits Details, However. I would say You can still have a very detailed N scale If you have the patients and a 3d printer and could do it yourself. But sometimes our space does determine our scale.

 

[Mario PL]

You can still have a very detailed N scale If you have the patients and a 3d printer and could do it yourself.

I just bought N scale rails and train and would like to do some scenery in the future. Is it difficult to descale and make for example real buildings on 3d printer? And which 3d printer would you recommend to reproduce small details in N?

 

[Bushel86]

I just bought N scale rails and train and would like to do some scenery in the future. Is it difficult to descale and make for example real buildings on 3d printer? And which 3d printer would you recommend to reproduce small details in N?

While I have a 3d Printer, I would not be someone to ask. Maybe someone on here can give you an answer. I would say research what is best for your needs. Each type of printer is different. and each are better at different things. So While I won't give you specific brand I would say yes You can 3d print 1:1 buildings by scaling them down. Again research the best printer for your needs. Sorry I cant be much more help.

 

[DeaconKC]

I just bought N scale rails and train and would like to do some scenery in the future. Is it difficult to descale and make for example real buildings on 3d printer? And which 3d printer would you recommend to reproduce small details in N?

Okay on 3D printers if you want to print people in N scale you will need a resin printer if you want any kind of details on faces, etc. The newest FDM [filament] printers are very good for buildings and terrain now. I have an Anycubic Kobra that I am very happy with, I had 2 Enders before and they were very good for the time they were made. Thingiverse and Cults both have a lot of free designs for buildings and structures.

 

[davidone]

I am building a ho layout in a fairly small space. It is 14x5. As long as I have 4 or so siding's and I can run my favorite type engines, modern diesels and a few smaller steam I'll be happy.
I have had my largest layout for years and it was fun but now at my age (78) I need easy but yet in ho I can still see the detail!! Operation will not be a thing anymore but running trains for the pure joy of it will be.

Don't over think it as you get older, do what makes you happy!!!

 

[NorthBrit]

HO/OO is fine by me. Locomotive and two or three freight wagons or carriages travelling at a gentle pace through scenery. My kind of layout. Life in the fast lane it is not.
A diverted express, or Down Postal now and again to wake-up the signalman.

Yes. Too much rolling stock, but I do not care. More to arrive.

Grandchildren operate the layout differently. Well they would, wouldn't they? 200mph is the normal for them sometimes. We have our own Rule 1.

Yes. HO/OO is ideal for all of us.

 

[trailrider]

With over 70 years worth of HO rolling stock and buildings, I could use about 10 times the space for my folded dogbone layout in a 14 x 13-9 room. But at 83 I am content with what I have. (Wife won't let me extend into her 14 x 14 study, and the basement it too full of stuff, which is why we built the 14 x 28 addition to the house about 20 years ago!)

 

[beiland]

Your eyesight gets worst with age, often slowly, but often.
I was helping a few fellows with their N gauge when I first rentered the hobby at age 60. My eyesight was very good then, but I still had trouble rerailing those cars. At 62 now I know I would be having lots of trouble and frustrations. I'm very glad I chose HO

 

[Jaz avalley]

Brit here so 00 technically ho with subtle difference our track is wrong for 1:76 scale but that aside
You will never have enough room
N technically get more in BUT is small and fiddly you need very dexterous fingers
O is bigger but better in a garden as inside is never ever enough space ever
00 or h0 is Goldilocks plenty of availability trains track and figures not too fiddly
That said I have seen both N and 0 layouts that are great but me personally a sound card, a figure small weathering details you need 00 or h0
My opinion and my evidence in support

 

[Jaz avalley]

Kinda interested in understanding if you are happy with the scale you picked vs the space you have? For instance if you are like me with a small space? are you happy with the scale you choose even with the small space? Had/have you wished to change scales but maybe have to much invested so you don't? And Most importantly What made you choose the scale you model to begine with? What about switching did that factor in the scale you picked? Or was it Space? or details? What important factors made you happy with your choice based on the space you have?

So let me start. And the reason for my asking.
I started in Ho as a Kid, then after a long time away from the hobby I got back into it did N scale. I sold all my N scale to a friend an I took another break from Model railroading. When I came back the last time I decided I wanted to do Ho scale Because I never knew sound was a thing other then in steams. so hearing my first sound diesel loco was what did it for me. But after modeling a bunch in Ho scale making tons of buildings and structures and building a switching layout for a friend. I got frustrated because The room I have is small. 9'5"x 13" with only 9'5"x10' usable space. after years and years of track planning and going back and fourth with new Ideas. I just never was satisfied.

So I decided Maybe I should start doing N scale. I bought a locomotive and some track and cars. But Havent even put anything together. And after More frustration I just could not for the life of me Decide What scale Would best suit me. So I took a short break again. After swearing I was done with the hobby. And now Like a ton of bricks I know what I want to model. Since I want to Model The MD&DE and the Easternshore RR.. Because they are both fallen flags and because They are home locals for me. I realized my heart belongs to those fallen shortlines.

But I am torn between Ho scale And N scale.. and regardelss of what scale I choose I only plan on modeling a small Rural town with 4 -6 small mom and pop rail serve industries. in an around the room shelf layout. regardless of scale. but also option of continues running. But here is why scale is still hard to decide on.

I keep Leaning towards Ho scale for the simple fact that CF7s are more readily available. And since the MD&DE had 4 of them 2 were of the first batch ever made. along with some RS3's Ho scale really makes the most since esp since it is easier to modify and scratch build small parts. Plus I would think painting and lettering in Ho scale is alot easier then doing it in N scale. What I don't like about Ho scale is the space of my room limits me to. I keep feeling I would not be satisfied with the lack of distance the train would travel.

But what makes me long for N scale is the distance that N scale travels. having larger dead space making the train feel as if it really is going places. Plus 1 foot shelf depth is = to 18" for Ho scale. So having that extra space means I don't have to compress the buildings as much or the scene as much. And that makes me love N scale even more. While I am pretty confindent I can make the N scale buildings look as realistic as my Ho scale couterparts. I do not feel I could make the same locomotive modification in N scale as I could In Ho scale. And the lack of CF7's in N scale. makes it harder to make my decision. Plus sound in N scale doesn't mean anything for me. as it does in HO scale. I can take or leave it. it is not a factor.

While I already have a back story i am working on for my railroad, as a Proto freelance. With the MD&DE and the eastershore/baycoastal railroad merging as one to be the Dominate railroad on the Delmarva Peninisula. I think that is Why this choose is harder to make then just picking 1 or the other.

So what made you choose your scale esp if you have small space?

Build two levels see santafewillies layout