Tuesday, 1 December 2009
A Railway in Your Garden!
Did you see that? A steam locomotive whistling it's way through the garden? Yes, that's right - you are talking about my 'G' scale model train! Yes, you got that right - garden railroading, in the 'G' scale, is here to stay. These are some of the largest model trains produced, and though many of these models are out of doors, originally the 'G' had nothing to do with the garden. Oh, for the good old days!
Actually the 'G' is short for the German word "grob", which means "big." These trains were made popular by a German company, Lehmann Gross Bahn (LGB). G scale model trains and model railroads actually vary in size from country to country and system to system. What is consistent is the gauge of the tracks, which is 45mm (about 1.75"). This is Gauge 1 track size.
Gauge 1 track came about in the early 1900s to model narrow gauge (1000mm) European railroads. The resulting scale (of model to prototype track gauge) is 1:22.5. Using 45mm gauge rails to model US narrow gauge, which is 3 feet, gives a scale of 1:20.3, which the NMRA calls 'F' scale. The majority of American G scale manufacturers use this scale for their models.
These model trains are quite durable, which makes them popular - kids can play with these trains. Their size makes them easy to work with for those of us with poorer eyesight, or perhaps with arthritis. An outdoor layout brings into play many variables, like plants that grow, leaves that fall, pets, neighbors... The track materials are usually brass, aluminum or stainless steel (none of which rust). Many components can be found in brass. The variety of model trains gives great possibilities to railroad layouts, indoor and out. If you want to take a step up in size and scope, consider G scale model trains.
Scott Watkins is a model railroad enthusiast, and he can help you to get started quickly in this great hobby. He's written a 12 part mini course on getting started with model trains, you can get it right now at his website. Find out how you can begin having fun today with G scale trains at his website: http://model-train-info.com/g-scale-model-trains.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Scott_Watkins
Actually the 'G' is short for the German word "grob", which means "big." These trains were made popular by a German company, Lehmann Gross Bahn (LGB). G scale model trains and model railroads actually vary in size from country to country and system to system. What is consistent is the gauge of the tracks, which is 45mm (about 1.75"). This is Gauge 1 track size.
Gauge 1 track came about in the early 1900s to model narrow gauge (1000mm) European railroads. The resulting scale (of model to prototype track gauge) is 1:22.5. Using 45mm gauge rails to model US narrow gauge, which is 3 feet, gives a scale of 1:20.3, which the NMRA calls 'F' scale. The majority of American G scale manufacturers use this scale for their models.
These model trains are quite durable, which makes them popular - kids can play with these trains. Their size makes them easy to work with for those of us with poorer eyesight, or perhaps with arthritis. An outdoor layout brings into play many variables, like plants that grow, leaves that fall, pets, neighbors... The track materials are usually brass, aluminum or stainless steel (none of which rust). Many components can be found in brass. The variety of model trains gives great possibilities to railroad layouts, indoor and out. If you want to take a step up in size and scope, consider G scale model trains.
Scott Watkins is a model railroad enthusiast, and he can help you to get started quickly in this great hobby. He's written a 12 part mini course on getting started with model trains, you can get it right now at his website. Find out how you can begin having fun today with G scale trains at his website: http://model-train-info.com/g-scale-model-trains.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Scott_Watkins
Garden Railroading
The scale of a model train refers to its size in comparison the real thing. There is a category for the bigger models called large scale trains. A component of that category is the G scale model with a ratio of 1:22. That simply means it is one twenty second to the actual size of a real train prototype. Typically, but not always, this size is too large for inside your home and is setup outside. Combine model railroading with the outdoors and you get what is coined garden railroading or G scale model train. It is a very appealing size the whole family can enjoy all year long and takes on a whole new sense of realism.
Now, G scale model trains do not have to be limited to the outdoors. It is also an ideal choice for running around your Christmas tree. The train is very easy for young children to operate without fear of knocking off the tracks due to the large size. The smaller scale trains may not fare as well especially if the children are young. The engines, track and rolling stock are of very high quality but tend to get a little expensive. So you will pay more for the initial setup but, because of the quality and durability, the investment should last for years to come. The smaller scales are much more fragile especially if young children are involved. Be careful before purchasing from multiple manufacturers, the G scale trains have not been standardized as well as other scales. Accessories are also limited and may require extra research to obtain.
Usually made of brass, G scale trains are quite durable and a perfect choice to be used outdoors or in the garden. The outdoors brings you even closer to real life. Mountains made of dirt, rocks, ponds, and streams can all bring your train to a whole new level. Downsides are erosion and other damages that Mother Nature may bring to the setup. These little problems are easy to fix and should not deter you. The joy of the outdoors, with the changing of the seasons, is priceless. Always be certain to check the tracks for debris before each use. Move the large debris off to the side and wipe the tracks with a clean cloth and you will be ready to go.
Of course your choice of scale depends on what you want the railroad to be. For an outdoor setup, the G scale model trains are a perfect choice. All you need is a mighty locomotive and three or four pieces of rolling stock. Then let the natural beauty of the outdoors provide the scenery for you and your family to enjoy.
Shaun Sparrow is an experienced model railroader that enjoys sharing his knowledge about the world's greatest hobby. To find more great information about G scale model trains, please visit his website http://www.model-train-station.com/Niche-Profit-Press-Pro-V.2.0/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shaun_Sparrow
Now, G scale model trains do not have to be limited to the outdoors. It is also an ideal choice for running around your Christmas tree. The train is very easy for young children to operate without fear of knocking off the tracks due to the large size. The smaller scale trains may not fare as well especially if the children are young. The engines, track and rolling stock are of very high quality but tend to get a little expensive. So you will pay more for the initial setup but, because of the quality and durability, the investment should last for years to come. The smaller scales are much more fragile especially if young children are involved. Be careful before purchasing from multiple manufacturers, the G scale trains have not been standardized as well as other scales. Accessories are also limited and may require extra research to obtain.
Usually made of brass, G scale trains are quite durable and a perfect choice to be used outdoors or in the garden. The outdoors brings you even closer to real life. Mountains made of dirt, rocks, ponds, and streams can all bring your train to a whole new level. Downsides are erosion and other damages that Mother Nature may bring to the setup. These little problems are easy to fix and should not deter you. The joy of the outdoors, with the changing of the seasons, is priceless. Always be certain to check the tracks for debris before each use. Move the large debris off to the side and wipe the tracks with a clean cloth and you will be ready to go.
Of course your choice of scale depends on what you want the railroad to be. For an outdoor setup, the G scale model trains are a perfect choice. All you need is a mighty locomotive and three or four pieces of rolling stock. Then let the natural beauty of the outdoors provide the scenery for you and your family to enjoy.
Shaun Sparrow is an experienced model railroader that enjoys sharing his knowledge about the world's greatest hobby. To find more great information about G scale model trains, please visit his website http://www.model-train-station.com/Niche-Profit-Press-Pro-V.2.0/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shaun_Sparrow
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