Benchwork Height

[HAZMAT9]

I've heard the many discussions in regards to bench height. All my references point to about 48" high. Ready to attach my legs on my finished benchwork and I have cut them to 48" although this seems a bit high. I'm 6'0 and it comes up to my chest. Since I'm building the Granite Gorge and Northern and it's has many curves and rock walls..etc should I use this height or go shorter. I'm just afraid that a viewer such as myself won't be able to get the full effect of the train movement or scenery. Any help would be greatly appreciated!! Steve [:)]

[rlbeetle]

Being new to the hobby I am no expert, but I have read the height depends on who will be using/watching the trains. Also what is most comfortable for you. I am about to start my next layout and I am undecided about the height. A friend is building one and I would say it is more than 48" high, too high for me but fine for him because he is tall.

[NZRMac]

Mines 46" and I'm 6'2", it's just right, my family all complaned they couldn't see the trains running so I'll build a platform for them to stand on. The layout is on two levels the top being 57" at the summit.

Ken.

[Anonymous]

As you think about the height of the track, don't forget that you will be working underneath, as well. Make it too low and your back will never forgive you!! <Groan>. Remember, the whole idea is to enjoy what you are doing.

Mike

[Anonymous]

Mine is also about 48" high, and I am 5'11". I think the layout height does make a difference as far as watching the trains go by, switch work, etc., to where the trains and scenery look more realistic. But it all depends upon who'll be operating the layout: kids, adults...

[IRONROOSTER]

My current layout is 58" high. I'm 5'11". Wasn't sure I wanted it this high when I built it, but I needed the storage underneath. Now that I have had it a few years, I like it. The view is more of the side of the train than the top.
Enjoy
Paul

[claycts]

Another Thought:
Being long of tooth I used the center of my eye in the sitting position for the LOWEST point then went up. That number was 43". That was the CENTER of an HO freight Car on the lowest level. Doing the math thot put he TOP of the L Girder at 36" which using a CAR CREEPER to work under the table is just fine. THis was a post to show you the other side of some of us older people the may need "THE SCOOTER STORE" some day.
BUT REMEMBER that if the CHAIRMAN of the PURSE STRINGS can not enjoy somerthing about the hobby THEN it is harder to talk her into the BRASS ENGINE AT THE SHOW FOR $1,050.00.

[HAZMAT9]

I couldn't agree with you more Claycts, the Chair inspected the legs at 48"....way too high for her. I decided on 42" since this gives me plenty of room underneath for storage as well as a neutral height that we both can enjoy. I referenced Linn Westcott's "Model Railroad Benchwork" which mentions that a bench 10' in length with a height of 42". This seems to work for me, though future layouts I may increase the height a bit and build observation ramps for shorter guests. Thanks All!!