Hiya
I'm 62, and want to start to build a small layout in a year or so. Something I've wanted to do most of my life.
I have a yearly Lionel Christmas layout, and that's it. Those folks suggest I stay with O scale with my permanent layout ... instead of the smaller scales ... because I'm getting older now. "HO is hard to handle, hard to see, hard to operate, etc."
However, I would like to do HO .... because of space, cost, and the availability of things I would like.
I'm just building a fairly narrow, "shelf" layout, an "L" along two walls, or so.
Do any folks here feel that I should avoid HO? I will be purchasing all new equipment. I would like to buy two Atlas "classic" series HO engines now, to get the ball rolling.
I know this stuff is significantly smaller than my scale Lionel items, but ... if I have my reading glasses on, in a well lit room .... lol .... I think I would be good-to-go.
Thanks. This is a fascinating hobby, btw. I'm eager!
Go for it. HO isn't tiny and if you buy quality stuff, it still has a nice heft to it. Unless you have some sort of tremor or shake, which runs in my family, you'll do fine. I'm in HOn3 narrowgauge, and it can be a handful sometimes but that's a factor smaller than most standard gauge HO.
Keep in mind that one of those plastic rerailer things can make getting everything back on track easier.
BTW,
Mike Lehman
Urbana, IL
I'm older than you are, and my reading glasses are thick, but I do HO. Good lighting helps, an opti visor helps, a white top on the workbench helps, those magnifier lamps help. HO lets you have a lot more railroad than O in the same space, and the rolling stock is big enough to work on, add details, paint and decal.
David Starr www.newsnorthwoods.blogspot.com
I am going to vote with Mel on this one.
As the saying goes, "Just Do It !".
Keep it small at the outset, and if you don't like it, you can always sell it.
HO scale is not a problem for me as a senior citizen. HO scale is large enough that it shouldn't be an issue for the vast majority of older guys.
Rich
Alton Junction
I'll agree with the rest of the guys.
I'm 71 now, and still working in HO. I wear an Optivisor now. Not always, but frequently. And, yes, bright lighting helps a lot--the eye lens stops down, which gives you greater depth of field (camera talk).
If you really want to find out if you can work in HO, try assembling a kit. That's pretty much how one got into HO back in the old days, anyway.
I'd recommend starting with a Walthers building kit. Go through their catalog and pick out something that speaks to you.
Then maybe rolling stock. Tichy is probably the best way to go. Start with a flat car or something. If you're in the mood, their crane is a good second or third one to try. There's LOTS of parts, and every one of them fits perfectly.
Don't get too anxious about painting and lettering. Yet. But if you can got these things together, you can work in HO.
You'll note that all my suggestions for building are in plastic. Back in the day, there were also metal kits and wood kits. The former were generally about as easy as semi-complex plastic kits. I can't think of anyone who makes them anymore. Wood kits are still sorta around. American Model Builders has about a zillion cabeese kits. They're a bit more tricky than plastic, I think.
Oh, yeah. Accurail still makes plastic kits. Check them out, too.
Ed
The ideal way to chose a scale and gauge is to actually have the chance to visit layouts and operate the trains. I often regret not having the ability to model the large industrial scenes on my layout that switching over to N scale would have provided. I have bought some N scale rolling stock and feel comfortable that I still have the physical dexterity to model in N, to body mount couplers, weather the cars, and build structure kits and such. What I cannot seem to be able to do is re-rail N scale rolling stock without the aid of a plastic re-railer! And my eyesight finds it very challenging to read the numbers on the sides of N scale rolling stock during operating sessions. So on balance I think I can say, with some regrets, that N scale is not the best for me. But I learned that from experience, not assuming anything or just listening to what others told me.
I am comfortable working with HO from a dexterity and eyesight standpoint - because I have actually done it.
Why not buy an HO structure kit (plastic although some laser cut wood kits are very do-able too) and just see how it feels. Buy a rolling stock kit and install the couplers and see if you think this is something that feels possible for you. Buy a piece or two of track and try laying it and ballasting it -- and re rail a car onto it. Ease into it in other words.
I can say that a couple of modelers I know who are aging found that the Bachmann On30 (also called On2 1/2) trains have opened up new avenues for them. The track is the size of HO, but the figures, structures, scenic features, and such are 1/4" scale and the greater mass and bulk is easier for them to deal with. The trains themselves are full size 1/4" scale but the prototypes are smaller so the overall bulk is not all that large. The layouts took up the same space as their former HO layouts. However these were experienced modelers who like to scratchbuild stuff. Still, don't rule that out.
To repeat, I'd ask around and see if there are layouts you can visit -- and acquire modest amounts of HO or N model trains you can work with -- for a real hands on experience with the different scales before you commit.
I also would consider sticking with Lionel or similar trains but building a permanent layout for them. There certainly are some nice O scale structures out there.
Dave Nelson
I note your comment on "availability", and that can be crucial to your enjoyment. HO has the widest variety of models available, and you will be much more likely to find the kind of rolling stock that you want in the lettering and paint scheme that you are looking for than with other scales. Re-painting and re-lettering things can be rewarding (and I have done that), but it can also get frustrating.
As with the other posters, I agree that HO should be fine for you. I will turn 65 before the end of the year. I have a desktop magnifier that gets more use now than it used to, but the equipment size and small parts really aren't an issue. A few years ago I very seriously considered moving to On30 and all of that nifty narrow-gauge look, but once I really considered the size of any plausable structures in O-scale, I realized that it would negatively affect any layout plans on a shelf. I stuck with HO and enjoy that product variety.
Bill
I'm also older than you and I model in HO scale. I wear triple focals but normaly don't have problems seeing what I am doing in good light.
And, I agree with the other posters. Go for it.
If it's for you, yes, definitely try to get to a retailer or a local modeler and handle the items. If you can enjoy their details and movement in nominal indoor lighting, and if you can rail them without wanting to throw them against a wall, then I'd say get the smallest scale that allows you the most ambitious layout and track plan you care to tackle. Some would advise starting modestly on a first layout, and there's a ton of wisdom in that advice. You don't mind parting with some early mistakes and then using your learning, including your newly discovered preferences, in a brand new and hopefully longer-lasting layout.
There are people here in their 70's still happy in HO, and more than one on this forum still in N scale at the same age. There's one fella up in Winnipeg who is in a wheelchair and he's darn near blind. He's in HO.
How's your health? Are you mobile, can see in moderate lighting, have fingers that can still tie your shoe laces pretty well? I'd say HO is fairly safe. Remember, there is a learning curve to this, so be patient. Think things through and you won't have wasted any money or pleasure.
I'm seventy. Eyesight isn't great. I need glasses for driving, and I need them even more for closeup work. I've been in HO since the 1960's, and have never had a serious problem. Sure, O or S scale is bigger and easier to see, but the product availability, space requirements, and prices of the items I want make HO the obvious choice. I do have consistent problems with N scale, but others tell me they don't. Go figure. When I'm building models, I use magnification. An Optivisor is usually adequate. For operation, I sometimes have to switch between my closeup glasses and my distant ones, but that would be true no matter what scale I used. At my latest exam, I explained this to my eye doctor, and she said the new prescription should be more friendly to my needs. We'll see.
Bottom line: I see no reason for HO to be a problem for you.
Tom
cnj1547 Those folks suggest I stay with O scale with my permanent layout ... instead of the smaller scales ... because I'm getting older now. "HO is hard to handle, hard to see, hard to operate, etc."
Those folks suggest I stay with O scale with my permanent layout ... instead of the smaller scales ... because I'm getting older now. "HO is hard to handle, hard to see, hard to operate, etc."
Holy schlamoley.My advice, honestly, is to tell those folks "It's 2016, not 1946." Because seriously, that's the kind of stuff you'll see if you read the Model Railroader letter columns from the 40s.
Disclaimer: This post may contain humor, sarcasm, and/or flatulence.
Michael Mornard
Bringing the North Woods to South Dakota!
Also, I turn 62 in189 days.
I switched from O to HO in 1987. It's worked out well; however, if I were changing now, I might go to N scale. At that time N stuff didn't always run that great, now the best N is at least as good running as the best HO was back then.
I'm 57, and when working on the layout with regular bifocals, I found it hard because I was OK up close or at a distance, but mid-range stuff (which I needed a lot) was tough as there was only a narrow band where that was in focus. Recently I got a pair of 'computer glasses'. I got what's called '20 foot' glasses, it has a little of my distance prescription along the top, and my reading prescription on the bottom. The main part in the middle is mid-range, roughly arm's length. I find they help a lot.
Hi cnj1547!
Welcome to the forums!!
I will also vote in favour of HO scale. I am 62 as well and I have a very few minor problems working in HO scale, the main one being my rather large fingers but I manage just fine.
People have recommended trying a few kits and I agree. I would note that the suggested Tichy kits are very accurate and they are also very detailed. They might be a bit daunting as a first kit. Atlas makes very nice kits that will give you a good idea of whether or not you are comfortable with HO sized components. If you run across older Proto 2000 kits they are very nicely done but the detail bits like grab irons are a challenge. Best to ask some opinions on how to handle them without destroying them before starting.
I recommend DCC control. It allows you to control your trains directly as opposed to having to control the track polarity like you have to with DC. Don't get me wrong, DC works great, but DCC is easier to wire.
Getting some time on a layout is perhaps the best suggestion so far. Train shows feature lots of club layouts, and if you ask politely most modellers would be more than happy to let you give stuff a try. You might even be lucky enough to have a model railroad club close to home. Go for a visit!
Possibly my most important tool is my Optivisor. Don't go for the Chinese knock offs, they are as uncomfortable as heck. Don't go for the lighting systems designed specifically for the Optivisors. They don't work worth a bent penny. I bought an LED headlamp, the kind with a head strap, ditched the strap, and screwed the lamp directly to the top of the Optivisor. Lots of light!
As for other tools, they need to be of the smaller variety so you can work in tight spaces.
I could go on forever but I will resist the temptation.
You will like HO!
Regards,
Dave
I'm just a dude with a bad back having a lot of fun with model trains, and finally building a layout!
hon30critter I have a very few minor problems working in HO scale, the main one being my rather large fingers but I manage just fine.
I have a very few minor problems working in HO scale, the main one being my rather large fingers but I manage just fine.
Definitely not age-related. I'm thinking as-delivered.
I've met a lot of humans, and they are VERY adaptable. Like rats. Without the tail. And not quite as smart.
Presuming you are also human, you have every chance of success with HO. And even if you don't, O can be AWESOME!
Howdy, CNJ. Welcome aboard.
I'll see your 62 and raise you 17. My seventy-ninth birthday is history. My modeling scale is HOj, which is slightly larger than HO - but used to model Japanese prototype rolling stock, which is smaller than equivalent North American equipment. Getting all the wheels of a 2-6-6-2 on the rails is a minor challenge, but not bad.
I have all the usual problems: questionable vision, arthritic fingers, general lack of flexibility... That's why they make magnifiers, cradles, padded clamps and so forth.
A few weeks ago I purchased five N scale locomotives. Not to use as-is, but to be the bases of locomotives for my 30 inch gauge logging railroad. The mechanism of a USRA 0-6-0 is perfect for modeling Ikasa Railway No. 21, the prototype of which is about the size of my Toyota Rav-4. Now all I have to do is fabricate an appropriate superstructure. The other four, Plymouth diesels, won't need much to bring them to the appearance of the Kiso Forest Railway's little diesel 'critters.' Just bigger cabs, no two alike, and exhaust stacks sticking straight up out of the automotive style hoods. As you can tell, the smaller-than-normal aspect of HO equivalent scale doesn't bother me. Just work slowly under good light with the magnifier of choice, and use a jeweler's apron to keep tiny parts from vanishing (or shattering) on the floor.
Once again, welcome. Above all, have fun.
Chuck (Modeling Central Japan in September, 1964)
The real issue isn't really whether you can work with HO as you get older. It's what size do you like working with.
I started in HO moved to O and then to S. I like the size of S. It's also easier to see and the pieces are larger which makes it nicer for building. Plus I prefer the size when running trains. HO is just smaller than I like and O is larger than I like. So like Goldilocks I model in S.
So if some thing in HO appeals to you, try it out. If it doesn't quite work for you, try S or On30. On30 trains are about the size of S, but the buildings are O scale and the track is HO. But that may be good compromise for you.
Paul
I was so happy to read all of your replies! Thanks
I guess my O scale aquaintances are set in their ways. Also, maybe in that scale, it's more about the engines themselves .... and the world (layout) around them is less important?
Anyway, so glad to hear that you older folks are enjoying it. I'm ready to jump in. In a year or so, there will be some changes in my home, and I can start building.
Yesterday, I took the hour ride to a nice, little train shop. So much stuff! They gave me a copy of last year's Walthers catalog. I was looking through it all last evening. Wow! The options are endless in this hobby! The plans and thoughts are swirling around in my mind. lol
See my forum name ... CNJ1547 (its from my O scale railroading)? That shop had that engine in stock! I *had* to buy it! lol. I'd like to learn how, and carefully try to add sound and a couple more details to it. I'm hooked.
I will start off with a Walthers plastic structure kit, just need to decide on which. And, wow .... that Tichney crane kit is cool!!
Maybe some day I can make a contribution to the forum's "Shop Me Something" threads. lol
I'm rambling. Thanks again, everyone.
I'm 69 1/2 and I've been in HO for 55 years or so. I think that working with this scale has helped me maintain manual dexterity. The eyes are on bifocals now, and I find that a magnifyer lamp is essential for the really small stuff, but mostly I have no issues.
It takes an iron man to play with a toy iron horse.
I say HO is the way to go!
I lost my entire Lionel collection of about three locomotives and about 15 pieces of rolling stock, along with the turnouts and track, when it was stolen by a commercial mover back in 1992. Prior to that event, I was eyeing HO scale because it is much more realistic than than the Lionel stuff. I had a sentimental attachment to the Lionel, as it was almost all Christmas presents from my parents when I was a kid. The Lionel theft just gave me the "green light" to go ahead and pursue HO, and I did just that; started collecting HO stuff in 1993 and never looked back!
With that said, I believe that, regardless of the scale you choose it would be a good idea to also think of what railroad and what geographic area inspires you the most. Many of us (including myself) have bought equipment, structures, etc. on impulse because it was the coolest thing i've (we've) ever seen but we cannot find any place for it on the the layout, be it rolling equipment or whatever.
Another tip: you don't have to buy top-of-the-line stuff to get your kicks from this hobby, and it doesn't necessarily have to be new either. I'd say about 30 percent of what I own was purchased used; many of them were already built kits, so the building part was already done for me, except for maybe changing out couplers and/or wheel sets. And, as you get further along in this hobby, scratchbuilding and/or modifying kits to suit your needs (called kit bashing) can also be a lot of fun too.
This hobby was meant to be fun; that's my biggest piece of advice.
If your (natural) preference is HO Scale -- Go for it!
I'm in N Scale, and it really doesn't make much difference to me vs. HO Scale. Why? I am nearsighted -- Meaning: I must get "up closer" in either scale. If I were farsighted, that would be an entirely different story. N Scale does permit more operations in the same amount of layout, and; it might be a different story if I were not nearsighted.
Conemaugh Road & Traction circa 1956
I'll be 65 at the end of November and I still work in HO. Craftsman kits which require a high degree of precision often with very tiny parts can be a pain to work with but other than that I have no problems.
If I were starting out from scratch and cost and availability were not issues, I would seriously consider going with S scale but since none of those are true, I'm sticking with HO.
Have fun with your trains