I guess the answer lies in how one would define, "model." (with all due respect to Bill) What about photos of model railroads that have been digitally altered in some way. Would they not, in some part, be in the same class as V-Scale? The point of course is that each individual has their own way of enjoying the hobby. So ultimately it really doesn't matter how, "traditional modelers," view your decision. You don't need anyone's permission to do what you do.
Ray
davidmbedard wrote:Ive dabbled in the V scale....but it doesnt replace actually having something in your hand.David B
Ive dabbled in the V scale....but it doesnt replace actually having something in your hand.
David B
Your pics are pretty awesome! Especially that first one. I never seem to have a computer that's up to the task of running those sims. I'd just rather invest my money in my layout instead of my computer or software. Still...cool pics!
I wonder what scale half V would be?
It is something, and I guess we use the word computer model to describe things, but I just can't get myself to call it model railroading. That isn't to say it does not require its own set of skills, but, in my opinion, the difference in that set, and the set required for model railroading make it a different hobby. Please note that this does not mean it is not a perfectly good hobby. I'm not saying it is superior or inferior, just different, and it is not model railroading, to me.
If you want to call it model railroading, I guess you can, but since you asked, I'd say it is not.
Jeff But it's a dry heat!
For many, many years I was a dedicated HO scale modeler. And for the same number of years I was limited in my hobby by funding and physical space.
With advances in computer hardware and software technology, I've found new interest and opportunities to explore my passion virtually; in V-Scale.
I've been building prototypically accurate model railroads for a few years now using popular railroad simulation software. Microsoft Train Simulator and Auran's Trainz are the most popular packages, but others are also available. I, and thousands of others like me, use radar DEM maps to create accurate terrain and plot tracks. Some people specialize in building accurate scale models of locomotives, rolling stock and structures. Of course, we can operate our layouts like any other model railroad including from inside the locomotive cab. The real benefit to v-scale is the lack of financial or space restrictions.
Some of the models are extremely accurate and artwork in their own right. The bulk of v-scalers take the hobby very seriously and consider themselves to be model railroaders as much as those who prefer any other scale. I've included a few example photos below.
I am curious how 'traditional' modelers view v-scale and those who choose to work in this medium.
~Rick