Edit post

Edit your reply below.

Post Body
Enter your post below.
I disagee completely with Marc C. If you operate your trains while lying on the floor, perhaps he's right. But standing upright, how much further from the action are you than on a "traditional" layout. In a perfect world we all would have the layout of our dreams, but usually in this one, we create the layout we can. Building it on a narrow shelf as you describe keeps the track close to the front and the action visible. I am 5'-9" tall and if I were standing "in front" of your layout running at about 6'-10" above the floor, the trains would be passing before me at about the same distance as a layout 4' above the floor. Of course if you're standing very close to the wall you'll see nothing, but standing comfortably back a step or two, you will have an excellent view. Considerations are the need for extremely good track laying to avoid sending your trains over a nearly 600' high cliff and creating very narrow scenery, creatively using building flats and taller mountain backdrops. In fact, combining the height with a mountainous backdrop likely will create a more dramatic illusion than is possible on the traditional layout. Your scenario probably wouldn't lend itself to realistically modeling the prairie lands, though. I am considering an 8' high shelf layout around my office for my small collection of HO equipment. Why? Because it is the difference between having something there or having nothing. And no, I cannot put it any lower due to archways, huge windows and 8' high bookcases. I'm sure jflessne has equally valid reasons. Go for it. Wayne [Edited for spelling]
Tags (Optional)
Tags are keywords that get attached to your post. They are used to categorize your submission and make it easier to search for. To add tags to your post type a tag into the box below and click the "Add Tag" button.
Add Tag

Update Reply

Subscriber & Member Login

Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!

Model Railroader Newsletter See all

Sign up for our FREE e-newsletter and get model railroad news in your inbox!

Subscriber & Member Login

Edit post

Post Body

Tags (Optional)

Subscriber & Member Login

Users Online

Search the Community