HO and N scale trains are for older kids or adults due to the small size and fragility of
the trains and track. 027 trains are meant more for kids. The larger size of the 1/48th
scale is more child friendly than the smaller train scales.
When talking about O scale trains it is good to keep in mind that there are two entirely
different types of model train which are included in the term "O Scale".
There are the popular 027 scale trains which include the well known Lionel trains as well
as K-Line and MTH. This is the three rail track system introduced by Lionel in 1915, which
most of us had as kids. The large size and abundance of operating accessories in 027 gauge
makes it one of the more popular scales for kids and adults to this day.
This scale of trains is mostly referred to as "027". But to confuse things there is a three
rail track in 027 scale which is called O Gauge. This is a heavier track in 027 scale which
is meant for more serious layouts using larger rolling stock and locomotives. It is the same
width as 027, but the track is taller, so you can’t mix it with the smaller 027. 027 trains
will run on this type of O gauge track, but not all O scale trains will run on 027 due to
the smaller size of this track.
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The other type of O gauge is a two rail model train system which is more accurately scaled
than 027. O27 model trains like Lionel, Marx, and MTH are not exactly to scale, being a bit
oversize. O gauge model trains are more realistic in appearance and size. The track is more
like real train track.
Scale O gauge isn’t nearly as popular as 027. Buildings and accessories made for 027 can be
used with O scale. Bachman manufactures a line of O scale trains which are made to run on HO
scale track. The trains and accessories are about twice as big as HO. This line of trains is
ideal for Christmas villages and other holiday layouts.
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