Model trains have been a favorite pastime for many years.
You would not believe the number of people that gain enjoyment from them.
There are many reasons that a person might enjoy model trains.
It could be that they dreamed of operating an actual train when they were a child.
Perhaps they enjoy controlling a miniature version, especially if it is surrounded by an elaborate and realistic scenery.
On the subject of scenery, there are many things that you can actually do.
If you know how to properly make use of scale, then you can make a scenery appear larger and more elaborate than it actually is.
The possibilities are endless! There are a number of different train scales, and they range from small to large.
When you are first getting into the model train hobby, the concept of scale might confuse you, but believe it or not, it's actually pretty easy to understand.
So let's talk a bit about the different scales: G Scale: The G scale model train is better known as the "Garden Variety" scale.
It is named such because it is more appropriate for use in a garden.
It is large, it is weather proof, and it does not break down easily.
Those who are new to trains or perhaps children will find enjoyment with the G scale.
H Scale: The H scale is half the size of the G scale, and many people prefer this to the G scale.
It is still a bit large though, and not good for smaller environments.
HO Scale: This one is creatively named HO because it is half the size of O.
It is a good middle ground, and those with ample space might fight that this fits in nicely for them.
In any case it looks great and can be highly detailed.
N Scale: The N scale is the smallest train size that you will encounter.
It is very preferred because it can support huge amounts of scenery.
It is somewhat difficult to use this scale with a DCC, but many people prefer to make the sacrifice.
Though these are not all of the scales, it is certainly a good starting point.
We mentioned DCC earlier, and this is a very advanced train system.
DCC stands for Digital Command Control, and it involves electricity being constantly run through the track.
The train can be controlled with computers, allowing for more elaborate control.
More primitive (and cheaper), methods for powering your model train do exist.
There is the standard electric powered train that generally involves batteries, and then of course you have the steam powered trains.
The type of train is your choice, but know that some are easier to control than others.
If you choose to make model trains your hobby, you will have a fun and enjoyable activity that you can share with many people.
It is not a cheap hobby however, so make sure you like it before you go all out.
Other than that, have fun with it!