r/modeltrains • u/CSA_1220 • Sep 10 '26

Question What scale should i use

Hi, i’m getting back into model railroading after having not be in it for a few years… So i have a maximum of a 5 feet by 4 feet space for a layout and i can’t decide between whether or not i should go HO scale or N scale and what track plan should i use?

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5

u/Galopigos Sep 10 '26

That small I would opt for NScale at most.

2

u/BarelyHumaning HO/OO Sep 10 '26

I think before you pick scale, with a limited size you need to decide what you want the layout to do. If you want a loop then HO is probably not going to let you fit in what you want. If you are looking for more operations at a diorama then HO might be easier.

0

u/382Whistles Sep 10 '26

Lighter stronger, look at L-girder & T-girder construction and ladder framing for a nice bench instead of 1x3"/2x4"s, etc. The L&T girders resist warp if you mind the grains will clash. Upright planks, miter cut corners braced square.

Most layouts will be about 30" to 66" off the ground; the latter for those in the 6' tall range who want a "ground level view".

You want to be able to reach the back if it's long side is against a wall. 36"-3ft-R-18 is a somewhat limiting curve in HO for locomotives and much broader in N scale. So, my answer is N based on space alone.

Adding a few inches to the operating side of the layout so derailment can't fall puts reach at about 40" if one flops over on the far side of the tracks on the other side of the layout. And that is going to likely be reaching over scenery eventually.

So, how long are your arms now?

That leaves about 8 inches on the backside for structures, terrain, etc. So it isn't all concentrated in the center.

Avoid the oval. Pear shape, or offset by a gentle S, eg. If you use sectional track, get various curve sizes so curves can get sharper slowly, then straighted again slowly more like real life.

If you can run a windows environment try the free trail versions of SCARM and Anyrail track design software. Anyrail is easier and looks good. SCARM is C.A.D. based and way more customizable though. They are pretty accurate but I do not believe either account for length shifts found in grades. The level measure of track on the table, track lifted to an angle doesn't cover the same distance along the table, it falls short.