HO vs. N

[4-6-6-4 Challenger]

I have decide that I am going to use N scale but if people can give me a reason that I sould use HO scale give me some good reason I am working with a 8x12ft layout and dont think I can put much.

[concretelackey]

my opinion- you can still fit a decent amount of HO in that 8x12 DEPENDING on what your plans are as far as runninng stock/scenery/etc...

You can get ALOT more N in there and still have it spaced out respectably.

They say HO has a greater selection of RTR but they also say N is catching up fairly fast. Item for item the cost will be about the same.

IF it were ME I would opt for N scale.....plenty of action, plenty of space, and room for future development.

[PASMITH]

I have decide that I am going to use N scale but if people can give me a reason that I sould use HO scale give me some good reason I am working with a 8x12ft layout and dont think I can put much.

If you like running Challengers even N scale may not work for you in an 8X12 space. It seems to me you are going to have to consider some type of short line with small locos or use a lot of view blocks and staging. How about narrow gauge?

Peter Smith, Memphis

[concretelackey]

I have decide that I am going to use N scale but if people can give me a reason that I sould use HO scale give me some good reason I am working with a 8x12ft layout and dont think I can put much.

If you like running Challengers even N scale may not work for you in an 8X12 space. It seems to me you are going to have to consider some type of short line with small locos or use a lot of view blocks and staging. How about narrow gauge?

Peter Smith, Memphis

what if he kept the bigger locos to the main and utilized smaller ones for switching/tighter radii?

[Don Gibson]

PRICE is similar - so it's SELECTIVITY  vs. PROPORTIONALITY (alloted space).

Passenger trains look & run better when using 'N' curves on 4X8's..

YOUR Pronlems with an 8X12 will be REACHING things (IE:access). Max curve limitatios are 46"r.

I'd cut into 3' corner sections, and connect them along a wall using 18" wide straights, 8' long, which is a elongated 'dogbone', limited only by your imagination.

[tomikawaTT]

I have decide that I am going to use N scale but if people can give me a reason that I sould use HO scale give me some good reason I am working with a 8x12ft layout and dont think I can put much.

If you like running Challengers even N scale may not work for you in an 8X12 space. It seems to me you are going to have to consider some type of short line with small locos or use a lot of view blocks and staging. How about narrow gauge?

Peter Smith, Memphis

what if he kept the bigger locos to the main and utilized smaller ones for switching/tighter radii?

Hey, guys!  John Armstrong demonstrated that it's possible to run a DM&IR 2-8-8-4 in 4 x 8 - in HO scale.  ("The Mighty Bantam," The Classic Layout Designs of John Armstrong, Kalpubco.)  Given that, running a less powerful locomotive on a layout with three times the available area in a scale only 55% the size shouldn't be that much of a challenge.

View blocks and staging are the way to go.  The rest is dealt with by the following quotation from a science fiction character of my acquaintance:

"I define, 'impossible' as, 'I haven't done that yet.'"

If anyone, anywhere, has done it, it sure as taxes IS possible.

Chuck (modeling Central Japan in September, 1964 - in a space of equivalent size)

[on30francisco]

I'd choose HO. N scale is good for broad curves and vast scenic vistas. If your goal is to fit the most amount of railroad in your available space, choose N. You can get almost anything in HO and the quality of most products is top drawer. If you shop online at the discount houses, the price differential between HO and N isn't that much, however, since you can fit almost four times the amount of railroad in equivalent space in N scale, N will cost more than HO. Due to the larger size, HO is much easier to work with and more detail is possible. Although there are some steam locos in N scale, it is biased more toward contemporay mainline modeling. I myself model in G scale narrow gauge indoors. In the end, it all depends on what you like.

[loathar]

If your young and have good eyes, go with N. You can fit a lot in an 8x12.

[dinwitty]

I have decide that I am going to use N scale but if people can give me a reason that I sould use HO scale give me some good reason I am working with a 8x12ft layout and dont think I can put much.

I don't have that much more room and I think I have a really grande design in HO.

N is too small for me so no go. But I know others who went N dumping HO, more to be able to model a locale better because of the small size.

Work your ideas out and see what feels best for what you want to do. It seems N scale product availability is more modern prototype, but I don't doubt you could make an 1880's layout anyways, or a full steam 1940s.

 

[2-8-8-0]

8x12 is a good amount of space, even in HO. I model in N as i dont have anywhere near that much space atm, and if i ever do, i intend to model appalachia, with long trains rolling through mountains, and several large coal mines. In my circumstance, i want the size of both the mountains and the mines (as well as the mining camps) to be proportionate to the trains. I used to model in HO, and my layout was only about 3 by 7 feet, so i just chose to model an engine servicing facility, with roundhouse, coaling tower, etc.

With that amount of space you can do a lot, whether HO or N, just remember that youll have to be able to reach all of it! It depends on what you want to model. City scenes with a lot of switching and industries? HO is fine. I see that your a UP fan....if you want to model Challengers and Big Boys rolling freights across the prairies, i would go N. Im working on a 2x4 layout atm in N (it was 2x3, i expanded) which is about the equivalent of a 4x8 in HO. With 8x12 you have 3 times that much room if you go HO, or 6 times that much in N! Thats plenty of space for either i would think.

[wm3798]

If your young and have good eyes, go with N. You can fit a lot in an 8x12.

I knew we wouldn't have to wait long for this lame comment...

Lee 

[R. T. POTEET]

Topics of this nature are an open invitation for generation of vast quantities of BS and I am going to RETAIN myself and only make one brief comment on the subject: in the early '80s when I bolted HO Scale for N Scale I did it because the area available to me for a layout only allowed 18" radius curves and that tight curvature is absolutely ridiculous for HO Scale, a fact that still rings true today and I will stay with N Scale for that precise reason. If you cannot afford 33" radius curves - and you probably can't in an 8' wide room - you need to stay away from HO Scale!; your room size is just right for N Scale!

[2-8-8-0]

Topics of this nature are an open invitation for generation of vast quantities of BS and I am going to RETAIN myself and only make one brief comment on the subject: in the early '80s when I bolted HO Scale for N Scale I did it because the area available to me for a layout only allowed 18" radius curves and that tight curvature is absolutely ridiculous for HO Scale, a fact that still rings true today and I will stay with N Scale for that precise reason. If you cannot afford 33" radius curves - and you probably can't in an 8' wide room - you need to stay away from HO Scale!; your room size is just right for N Scale!

This is exactly the reason i went to N. Truer words were never spoken.

[jecorbett]

I've made this comment before in many threads but this is a hobby of compromises. Each modeler has to decide what compromises to make based on what he wants and what he has available in terms of space, time, and money. With the space you have, you could go either way. A decent sized HO layout can be had in that space or even less but obviously long trains and grand scenic vistas are not a realistic option. On the other hand, N has its limitations as well. The trains themselves are not as prominent. Fine detail, difficult enough in HO, requires a jewelers eyes and hands in N scale. I have no first hand experience, but I would think handling the equipment is more difficult in N.

I'm an oldtimer whose first exposure to electric trains was Lionel and American Flyer back in the 1950s so when I first saw HO, it looked small to me and still does. HO is as small as I would ever want to go but I realize that N has its enthusiasts and I would be the last one to say they are wrong. There is no right or wrong choice. Each scale has its pros and cons and each modelers has to decide what is right based on his desires.

[luvadj]

I sure do miss my HO stuff (easier on the eyes), but like everyone else is saying, N-Scale will give you more in the same 8 X 10 and the selection is improving rapidly.

I've been in N-Scale for 15 years now and I'm still happy with the decision for reasons of space.

 

 

[wm3798]

Perhaps I was a bit harsh with my comment, but it seems that any time the issue of scale comes up, someone has to bellyache that they have to squint to see N scale.  (I'm using 14 pt. type so those guilty of this can read what I'm saying)

So, by extrapolation, to work in O scale you should be blind as a bat? 

Thank you Jecorbett for clarifying that all scales have their compromises.  I think everyone understands that certain individuals of any age will find some things about N scale more difficult, but I promise you, I have known a fair number of N scale modelers who are well into their 70's, and they extract every ounce of enjoyment they can from their layouts.

I guess all I'm asking here is that we stop over-stating the obvious size difference as some sort of broad brush rule about scale choice.  It would be just as inconsiderate to say that all HO gauge modelers are lazy because they can buy anything they want off the rack without ever lifting a finger to build a model, which of course is what all the N scalers are murmering under their breath when you see them gathered around the N trak layout at the train show...

Lee 

[outdoorsfellar]

8x12. That's quite a bit you can work with. My N scale Allegheny & Cumberland is 8 1/2 X 11 1/2.  Just as mentioned beforehand, there's compromises to be made no matter which scale. The most important thing to look at to begin with is the room itself. How workable is this space ? Do you plan on around the wall type, or more of something in the middle. What type of entrance & is there closet space ? My mainline running length is @ 80 ft... give or take, so take a long hard look at what your preferences are & then you'll realize that's where the compromises start.

[railroadnut675]

While both are readily available HO seems more popular. Also, it's going to be a trying to fit snapped couplers and small stuff back on.

 

My

[steinjr]

I have decide that I am going to use N scale but if people can give me a reason that I sould use HO scale give me some good reason I am working with a 8x12ft layout and dont think I can put much.

 Go N-scale, since you seem interested in large steam engines which used to pull long trains through open landscapes. Think in terms of a shelf layout around the room.

 And do go to your local library and check out a couple of books on model railroading, or buy a couple of the MR books on stuff like bridges, intersections, engine terminals etc. 

 That will give you an idea of things you can do, and the background you need to come up with more precise questions on how to do various things you want to do, instead of doing vague general polls fairly frequently.

 Here is a list of potensially interesting small books/booklets from the people who own this forum:

http://kalmbachcatalog.stores.yahoo.net/model-railroading-books-model-railroading-for-beginners.html

http://kalmbachcatalog.stores.yahoo.net/model-railroading-books-home-layout-ideas.html

http://kalmbachcatalog.stores.yahoo.net/model-railroading-books-track-plans-and-layout-planning.html

http://kalmbachcatalog.stores.yahoo.net/model-railroading-books-scenery.html

http://kalmbachcatalog.stores.yahoo.net/model-railroading-books-wiring-electronics.html

Good luck in deciding on your vision, and then scale, location, era and track plan.

Smile,
Stein

 

[IRONROOSTER]

You can build a layout in any scale with that much space - Z through G.  So the real question is what do you like to do.  Running long trains, lots of stations, lots of meets between trains is usually best done with small scales.  Highly detailed model building, lots of train presence, clickety clack through the switches is best done with large scales.  In between scales are a compromise to do some of both.

Pricewise N or Z scale is probably the most expensive because you will buy more pieces.  Other scales are roughly equal.  Of course if you're like most of us and buy more than you can use this may not be true. 

Since you seem unsure but are inclined to N, I suggest you start with N but not invest a lot.  Get some track down, run some trains, build a station.  If you're happy then keep on with N.  If you're not then try another scale. Many of us switched scales, some more than once, before finding the one that we like best.

Enjoy

Paul 

[wm3798]

BZZZZZZ  Wrong Answer, Iron Rooster (BTW, I'm a closet M&P fan... I'd love to see some more pics of your S scale work...)

Don't start N scale without investing ENOUGH.  You can get all kinds of cheap crap, but if you spend wisely on the better products (Atlas, Kato) then you'll never be disappointed.

Lee 

[Geared Steam]

Since you seem unsure but are inclined to N, I suggest you start with N but not invest a lot.  Get some track down, run some trains, build a station.  If you're happy then keep on with N.  If you're not then try another scale. Many of us switched scales, some more than once, before finding the one that we like best.

Enjoy

Paul 

[wm3798]

While both are readily available HO seems more popular. Also, it's going to be a trying to fit snapped couplers and small stuff back on.

 

My

"More Popular"... So if everyone else is jumping off a bridge...

I've been using Micro Train couplers going on 20 years.  I think I've broken 5 couplers.  Working in N scale is like anything else.  It can be difficult at first, but once you get the hang of it, it goes pretty smoothly.

Lee 

[ICRR1964]

If you feel you should do the switch and your are looking forward to it, I say go for it. I like the long running N layouts, always seems like miles in a layout than feet, and is always eye appealing.

 

Lee,

Just off hand do you think everyone is like yourself? I Built a small N layout years back just for the sake of giving it the good old college effort. It turned out real nice, but I had a dickens of a time sometimes. When some one says something about having a hard time working with it because of size, and being hard to see, does not mean they are blind! I have extra large fingers that don't work well with N, sometimes I have problems with some HO also. As far as seeing and working on N? Yes it is more difficult for me to see some things, same with the HO at times. I have some freinds that model N, nice looking, and built layouts. I have one freind who just turned 72 and is about ready to quit because of his shaking hands and his eye sight is not really good, a few of us got together and gave him some items from our HO stock. Track, Buildings, cars and engines. Old Tom is doing better, was an N scale runner for 30 years, now all his N items are boxed up and he is building a new HO layout. What were we suppose to do? Tell him to suck it up and deal with it?

I don't think anyone here is trying to bash N, so why the gruff post from you Lee?

[Packer]

Well, I picked HO, because it's what I was given to start with. I thought about going to N once or twice, but the local railraod club is HO, and I can run most of what I wanted to run in HO scale. I'm not quite sure if what I wanted is in N scale though, as far as equipment goes. (i.e. SD/GP 7s to dash 2s)

IMO, find out what equippment you want, then find out if it's available in your scale. If you know anyone who is in the hobby, try to get the same scale as them. (usually though, it's HO or N)

[Dave Vollmer]

I also get kind of tired of the "you must be young to handle N scale" comment...  I've seen plenty of modelers more than twice my age (and I'm 33) happily operating N scale trains.

8x12 feet is an excellent space for N.  It's decent for HO too.  Something you can try is to find or make an HO plan for that 8x12 foot space, but then lay it in N scale.  Why?  You'll end up with huge curves and plenty of room for scenery.  That's four times the the railroad in N than you get in the same space with HO.

I chose N, obviously.

Since you like Challengers, you should be very happy with Athearn's new N scale Challenger; it's gotten awesome reviews among its owners.

Yes, HO is more popular, and it's probably easier to do.  If easier and common is your thing, then by all means, do HO!

[New Haven I-5]

HO all the way. The advantge of HO is sound & dcc. N doesn't have a lot DCC locos & very rarely you'll see a N scale loco with sound. Also HO has a huge selection everything & is eaiser to add & paint figures. Also with HO you can make or buy interiors for passenger cars & buildings. I model HO & N so I know the difference.

[Dave Vollmer]

HO all the way. The advantge of HO is sound & dcc. N doesn't have a lot DCC locos & very rarely you'll see a N scale loco with sound. Also HO has a huge selection everything & is eaiser to add & paint figures. Also with HO you can make or buy interiors for passenger cars & buildings. I model HO & N so I know the difference.

Wow.  Funny, 'cause I'm running N scale with DCC and didn't have a problem finding DCC locos (or installing my own).

As for sound, I've seen/heard sound in an N scale 4-4-0.  PCM and Athearn offer sound-equipped N scale locos and both MRC and Soundtraxx offer N scale sound decoders.

[New Haven I-5]

HO all the way. The advantge of HO is sound & dcc. N doesn't have a lot DCC locos & very rarely you'll see a N scale loco with sound. Also HO has a huge selection everything & is eaiser to add & paint figures. Also with HO you can make or buy interiors for passenger cars & buildings. I model HO & N so I know the difference.

Wow.  Funny, 'cause I'm running N scale with DCC and didn't have a problem.

As for sound, I've seen/heard sound in an N scale 4-4-0.

But you're the expert, right?

I'm not saying there is no DCC/Sound in N scale. Its just there is more DCC/Sound in HO than N. Also, DCC/ Sound is cheaper in HO.

[loathar]

If your young and have good eyes, go with N. You can fit a lot in an 8x12.

I knew we wouldn't have to wait long for this lame comment...

Lee 

What's THAT supposed to mean??