Sn3 vs. On30 vs. On3

[NevinW]

I model HO but my eyes are getting worse and I have been thinking about going up in scale to S or O. I have also been bit by the Narrow Gauge Bug again and sent in my subscription to the NG&SL Gazette after a 10 years. I used to model in Sn3 SPNG back in the 80's. So I know what this scale was like back then.

I am looking for opinions about modeling Sn3 (neat, but maybe not enough larger than HO), On30 (inexpensive engines and track available, maybe not for purists). On3 (really neat and BIG, but maybe just too expensive).

I have about 10 X20 foot room for my model railroad.

What does everyone think are the advantages and disadvantages? - Nevin

[vsmith]

For me I would go On30 mostly because I really like the direction that niche is heading. Very narrow guage, easier to afford than On3 or Sn3, seems like theres more and more stuff being added each year, you can use the same buildings from O and the same track and control systems from HO, kinda the best of both worlds. Peco has good On30 sectional track and flex-trak or hand lay with HO rails and switch mechanisms.

[Anonymous]

Sn3 is really a great size for modeling as it allows HO sized curves but better operation than HOn3. The equipment is basically HO standard gauge size but the structures are larger which could help some with the worsening vision as we age. Brass engines are pricey but BTS and Railmaster make some great metal kits for a reasonable price. Lots of stuff available in Sn3 too. PBL makes awesome plastic car kits. The larger size of S over HO allows more room for sound, DCC or just more weight too.

On3 is very pricey but provides great operation and watching. I believe there is a plastic kit now for a C-16 by San Juan. They also make beautiful plastic car kits. The big problem with On3 (to me, anyway) is the large curves needed for operating K class 2-8-2's.

On30 is pretty neat. Bachmann is the only one I know producing anything in this scale but if you like to freelance a lot of cool conversions can be made from HO mechanisms.

Best of luck with your decision and modeling.
Roger

[vsmith]

Roger FYI

Broadway Limited is producing a C-16 in On30 and there is also a K-27 coming out in On30 my Mountain Model Imports but it will not be as affordable.

[Anonymous]

On30 and model Sandy River and Rangely Lakes. Yes, I know the SR&SL was 2 foot. Just log the heck out of them balsa forests and you'll be fine!!

[on30francisco]

I tried modeling in Sn3 and On3. The biggest problem for me in those scales is that locomotives were (and still are) extremely expensive. I built some structures and rolling stock in those scales but could never afford those pricey locos. When Bachmann introduced its On30 line of products I immediately jumped into that scale. With On30 you have the heft and detailing of O scale with the convenience of HO. The Bachmann locos run well, look great, and are very affordable. Bachmann and other companies are also adding other On30 products to their line all the time. The nice thing about On30 is that you can model either the 2 foot gauges of Maine or the 3 foot gauges or a combination of both!