Airfix World

The Contrasting Kinds of RC Airplanes

2011-01-28T07:13:00.001Z

Building and flying rc aircraft has become such a fashionable hobby that boasts a huge variety of rc model aircraft for sale in ready to fly kits (RTF) and almost ready to fly kits (ARTF). Here are some of the trendy radio control airplane types available.

Park Flyers: VNothing beats the Park Flyer for affordable and safe rc airplane action! This is the perfect introductory rc plane for kids and adults alike. Aptly named as such, but also known as Trainers because these rc model airplanes are an ideal beginner plane being small enough to fly in a park. Park Fliers do come in larger models that require larger open spaces.

Indoor RC Planes: This innovative breed of smaller rc model may be tiny, less noisy, pollution free and totally affordable, and what’s more it still offers countless hours of spontaneous fun! Flown in the comfort of your own home or in the backyard makes them just right for the entire brood; be it from school age to teens.

Micro RC Planes: Is it too wet to take your large rc plane out? No be anxious just take to the ceiling instead with the smallest of the rc plane series called Micro RC Planes; also known as micro flyers. When space is limited; it’s time to bring out your agile, light weight and very inexpensive micro-flyer for a fun miniature flying extravaganza exhibit in your living room, bedroom, garage or even the backyard.

RC Glider Planes: RC gliders or sailplanes come in two varieties; the powered or non-powered, with the rc glider having the option of a small engine in order to maneuver it. Rc gliders are slower which is useful for those new to the whole rc world experience. The non-powered glider purely relies on thermal air currents, but the beauty of the powered one is that if it starts to drop at all, you can just turn the motor back on and start climbing again.

(Bigger) Electric RC Planes: You can also buy large sized rc model planes in a wide range of styles, colors, body shapes and wing spans. All that’s needed is a little preparation and your new bigger electric rc plane will be zooming across the sky in next to no time. Good quality large rc planes feature pre-covered fuselage, precision laser cut design and come in fantastic eye-catching color schemes. Check them out!

Now that you have the run-down on the various types of RC Glider Planes available it’s high ttime that your get-up and go, RC Glider Planes and get flying!

The Book Guide In Making G Scale Model Trains

2011-01-07T09:51:00.001Z

Are you fond of making model trains? If you are, you know for sure that making model trains is one of the best hobbies that anybody can have. It enhances the creativity of an individual and it takes him away from useless endeavors. Of all the model trains that you know of, perhaps, one of the most popular is the G scale model. The G scale model trains is also one of the most difficult. But this is not a problem anymore. You can find a book guide on the Net called “Model Trains Explained”. Since G scale model trains are relatively larger than any other scale, you need this book guide, that is, if you are very particular about everything even the minute of all minute details of model trains.

How To Airbrush

2010-11-02T11:41:00.000Z

A nice tutorial video with tips on airbrushing.

Airfix Spitfire Model (1:1) At RAF Cosford

2010-10-18T14:29:00.000+01:00

The Royal Airforce Museum is pleased to announce that the Airfix 1:1 scale Spitfire model, as featured on James May's Toy Stories programme has returned to Cosford. Following maintenance and strengthening work completed by Gateguards in Cornwall, the giant model has now returned to the museum and is on display in Hanger 1.

Full article: Airfix Spitfire model (1:1) at RAF Cosford

Airfix Jet Engine

2010-10-18T14:20:00.001+01:00

With spinning turbo fans and a variable speed control, this is a brilliant way to understand the working features of the jet engine. Built as through hanging beneath a wing the Jet Engine`s speed can be controlled by the control handle built into the base.

With fifty parts this working model is easily constructed into a really fun item.

Airfix A20005 Jet Engine Construction Kit

Painting Model Aircraft Interiors

2010-10-13T13:22:00.000+01:00

This video describes some techniques for painting and weathering the wheel wells and cockpits of scale model aircraft.

The History Of Scales In Plastic Kits

2010-10-12T11:11:00.001+01:00

A scale model is a replica or copy of an object that is either larger or smaller than the original. Commonly the scale model is a smaller version of the original and is produced to provide a guide for making a full size version or as a hobby or toy.

Model makers often make models for the following professions;

For architects who require a smaller version to build from
For engineers to evaluate design performance at an early stage
For salesman to provide scaled down versions of an item for demonstration
Film makers to recreate elaborate sets

Toy makers and hobbyists make a wide variety of models including die-cast models, injection moulded, model railroads, fantasy creatures and remote control vehicles etc for their own enjoyment.

Scales and Size

Hobbyists' scale models are from those created by the companies which made the full-sized products. Originally, a "scale" was a physical measuring instrument. First among scales are the rulers that are triangular in cross-section and called architect's scales or engineer's scales. The terminology used was of this manner: "scale size to full size", or the reverse. An architect's scale was used to make the first affordable models: doll houses and their furniture. Its popular scales for these miniatures were "one inch to the foot" and "one-half inch to the foot"; there is also "three-quarters inch to the foot".

The proportion of the model to the prototype was originally called "size", as in "full-sized" or "half-sized", as used on a blueprint for making something that would fit on a workbench.

Phrases used are those of "larger" and "smaller" scales. The scale of 1/8"-to-the-foot is a larger scale than 1/16"-to-the-foot, even though the denominator is smaller. So a larger model is made to a larger scale. You can remember this in that a full-size, or full-scale, model is larger than a half-size model.

The History of Plastic Model Kits

For aircraft recognition in the Second World War, the RAF selected models to the scale of "one-sixth inch to the foot" (which was two British lines, a legal division of length which didn't make it to America, besides being a standard shipyard scale). Although some consumer models were sold pre-war in Britain to this scale, the airmens' models were pressed out of ground-up old rubber tires. This is of course the still-popular 1:72 scale. It wasn't predestined to succeed; there were competitors.

The US Navy, in contrast, had metal models made to the proportion 1:432, which is "nine-feet-to-the-quarter-inch". At this scale, a model six feet is about half a statute mile; and seven feet about half a nautical mile.

Read more: http://www.articlesbase.com/collecting-articles/the-history-of-scales-in-plastic-kits-479180.html#ixzz128X10MRO
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution

Chris Tyrrell - About the Author:

Chris Tyrrell writes for ABC Modelsport who stock a wide variety of plastic kits and radio controlled toys. Visit the website for more details.

Plastic Model Airplane Building Tips

2010-10-11T10:37:00.001+01:00

I began building plastic model airplanes when I was only six years old. My own son joined me in this great hobby when he was only five. I'm still building and painting at fifty six years old.
Whether you are a beginner or an old coot like me who has been building model planes for fifty years now, I hope you can enjoy the following tips.

Choose a good model airplane building station.
There is no reason you can't use an existing desk, a fold out table or even the kitchen table. Just choose an area where you will be comfortable for the amount of time you intend to spend in this building session and be sure to prepare your area for the tasks at hand. Plastic model airplane building requires using glue and paint. No matter how careful you are, you will end up with both glue and pain on your working surface. Be sure to prepare that surface with a removable lining for easy clean up and protection of your chosen work surface.
Always wash everything before you start.
Use soap and water to clean all of your parts. This is important for both gluing and painting your models. A nice clean dry surface means your model will be much stronger and have a much nicer paint job.
Read the directions!
Honestly. Everyone wants to jump in and just start building. Nobody thinks they need the instructions. But I guarantee that you will have a lot more fun if you just take the time to read through all of the instructions before you start. Also keep a yellow highlighter pen handy during this first reading. Mark anything that seems confusing at first or any important warnings.
Always allow the glue to dry overnight before attempting to paint your model.
This is key to a good paint job. It is natural to want to finish your model as quickly as possible. That does NOT give the best results though. Instead, glue everything together and then let it dry overnight.
Use putty to fill in the gaps.
Patience is the key here too. After using putty carefully to fill in any gaps or seams, allow it to fully dry.
Wash your model again before painting.
Wash your assembled model again with soapy water and allow it to fully dry. Why? Because this is your chance to remove oils from the plastic. Your paint job will look spectacular if you remove all of the oils from your hands before you start painting.
Always paint the interior first.
This is a common mistake for beginners. If you start with the outside, you will end up needing to touch up after you accidentally get interior paint on the exterior of your model. If you start from the interior, you will always end up with the very best paint job.
Enjoy your new model.
This is the pay off. Since you were very careful and patient, you now have a model that will last for years and you can be proud to display. Enjoy it. This is an important part of the hobby. Don't spend all of your time building new models. Take time to admire and show off your existing models.

To get more tips on plastic model airplanes, visit the author's site here: I hope these tips help you build the very best plastic model airplanes that you can be proud to display for years to come. Get more handy tips by visiting our site at http://www.discoverplasticmodelairplanes.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Pete_Hartigan

What Not To Do When Building A Plastic Model

2010-10-01T14:52:00.002+01:00

I have been building plastic models for years now and noticed people keep making the same mistakes over and over when it comes to purchasing and building a plastic model. Here are a few things you want to avoid when embarking on this modeling adventure.

First of all it's important to purchase the right kit. These model kits come in skill levels starting with one and ascending to the highly skilled modeler of four and higher. If you plan on building a model in one day stick with level two and three. Don't buy a model that's bigger or more difficult than you have time for.

Another important thing to remember is to either set up in a remote location or use a board or a tray to keep things contained and portable. When I was young my mother would say alright now clean up that mess it's time for dinner and everything had to relocate. What a bummer. I soon discovered a plastic fast food restaurant style tray could save the day. Don't set up your model where you will have to suddenly move and if you have to, use a tray.

It is vital to read the instructions from front to back before you even start. This gives you an all around view of the project. You will know which colour paints you need and the different fasteners like rubber bands and clothes pegs you may be using. The instructions these days are mostly pictures, but there are many modeling tips sites to compensate for the lack of instructions. What ever you do don't begin the kit before reading the instructions front to back.

When you're finished with the kit make sure all the caps to the glues and paints are secure so things don't dry up before the next model kit build.

Plastic Model Building Guide [http://www.wildan724.com] has lots of free model building tips.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=D.R._Wilson

Plastic Model Kits Building - Applying Decals Onto Armour Models

2010-09-30T09:27:00.000+01:00

The technique you use to apply decals onto armour model is essential. If you did not do a good job, flaws will appear after the "weathering" process. Decals tend to adhere better on glossy surfaces as compare to flat surfaces. If you happen to apply decals directly to a flat painted model, tiny white air bubbles will appear under the clear decal film when it dries. To solve this problem, apply a patch of clear gloss varnish over the area before applying the decal. Another method is to paint the entire model with gloss paint followed by a final coat of matte varnish after all the decals have been applied.

Here is a brief guide to apply decals onto armour models:

The first step is to trim away excess clear film from the edges of the decal. This is to avoid the excess film from reappearing after weathering.
Immerse the decal in a bowl of clean water for around 30 to 60 seconds. The decal film will then begin to slowly detach from the paper backing.
Next, transfer the decal out of the clean water and leave it on a paper towel for a minute or so. This step is to remove excess water from the decal and allows the film adhesive to soften.
Pick up the decal by the backing sheet and place it against the model.
Use a wet cotton swab to press against the decal to keep it still and slowly slide the paper backing away. Always remember to slide the backing away instead of the decal itself. This is to prevent the decal from ripping or folding over on itself. Use a pair of tweezers to hold the paper backing for small decal.
Use your fingertips to dab the decal with water and gently adjust it on the model to achieve the exact location you desire.
Once you have finished aligned the decal, gently purge out any air bubbles trapped between the decal and the model using your fingertips. A good approach is to start from the center of the decal and press outward.
Remove excess water around the edges of the decal by using a dry cotton swab. Leave the decal to dry within 10 to 15 minutes and refrain from touching it.

Expert model builders like to use a decal setting solution when applying decals. Its function is to soften the decal film that will stretch and shrink onto the surface of the model once it dry. A very useful application, especially when the decals must be positioned over hinges for other raised detail.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brendan_Morgan

Plastic Model Kit Building - The Basic Modeling Tools And Materials

2010-09-29T07:37:00.000+01:00

Plastic model kits building are not as complicated as you think it is. You just have to learn the necessary skill and apply it. The learning process takes time and you might even feel frustrated and disappointed along the way. The most essential element for your ultimate success is patience. Take your time to acquire the basic skill and build up your confidence level and gradually proceed to more complicated model. As with other hobby and craft, you will need some basic modeling tools and materials to build your first plastic model. Here is a list of tools and materials that you can start with.

Hobby knife
For cutting purposes such as removing parts and trimming away access stub after cutting.
Sandpaper
For sanding off unwanted molded lines or sharp edges to achieve a smooth surface. The sandpaper is available in extra fine, fine and medium grits. Another alternative is to use emery boards.
Liquid plastic cement
This liquid plastic cement dissolves plastic surfaces to form a weld like bonding. This type of solvent cement is much neater and easier to work with as compare to those that come in a tube.
Plastic filler putty
This is used to fill up any gaps to achieve a smooth surface and more realistic appearance.
Small needle files
For sanding precise or certain areas that could not be done by using sandpaper. Small needle files are available in the form of square, round and triangle.
Spring clamps or rubber bands
To hold parts together during the bonding stage.
Toolbox
This is to keep all the small tools and materials in a handy and portable box.
Table
Find a table which you can use exclusively for your model building activity.
Cutting board
To be used as a form of protection for your table top against cement or extensive cutting by the knife.
Desk lamp
If the lighting in your work place is insufficient or too dim, use a desk lamp. Avoid building your models in a bad lighting that will hurt your eyes and ended up with a bad job.

Some of the items listed above are optional; you can ignore or include it at a later stage. As you begin to build more scale model kits and gain experience, the collection of tools and materials will also increase. Plastic model kits building are an enjoyable and learning activity. When you have transformed an assortment of plastic parts into a complete and finished model, it gives you a sense of pride and satisfaction.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brendan_Morgan

Airfix: You'll Fall In Love With The Toys All Over Again

2010-09-20T16:29:00.000+01:00

In the big list of toys you were expecting to make a comeback, Airfix is down there with sticks and hoops, but the toys that take up the dining table are staging a comeback

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/home/moslive/article-1310853/Airfix-Youll-fall-love-toys-again.html?ito=feeds-newsxml#ixzz105Gw75k3

Miniature And Military Model Painting Techniques Guide

2010-09-16T14:27:00.000+01:00

This video shows many painting techniques including dry brushing nonmetallic metal feathering and advanced blending. These can be used on many wargames and military models.

Toy Soldiers Made By Airfix

2010-09-15T10:39:00.000+01:00

A toy soldier set from Airfix can be a good gift for any boy or a guy. Adults and kids both love toys from Airfix. This company has been producing the favorite toy of many boys for a very long time. Nowadays, you can avail classic or modern kits of toy soldiers. Whatever kind of Airfix toy you select, you will have the guarantee of being entertained for many hours as you try to build such toy kits together.

One of the reasons why people adore the kits from Airfix is because the toys are very interactive. You will experience building different interesting figures and scenarios. Every kit contains all the things you need such as the small pieces that make each toy and glue for you to attach them together. You will feel a sense of fulfillment after you have accomplished putting all together the small pieces of a certain kit. After your kids finish building the small pieces of the kit together, then you can spend time playing with them with the different battle scenarios that you can make out of the toys.

It will be a simple decision making task for you to get the kind of soldier you like because of the wide array of toy kits that you can choose from. The kits come in different themes such as the British paratroopers, US Marine, Italian army, Indians, cowboys, space men, and many more.

Another good thing about such toys from Airfix is that you can get them without spending so much. You can avail them at very affordable prices. Many of the toys could only cost around five dollars or less. You will just have to look around for the price that suits your budget. You may also go to different auction sites, but you should take caution. A lot of used kits usually have missing pieces that sellers don't mention to you. It is best to purchase brand new kits that have complete parts and are also cheap for you to buy. A kit from Airfix is a very ideal and unique gift for children and adults alike.

If you are looking for some Airfix 1/32 soldiers than visit airfixtoysoldiers.net.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alex_Mayor

Airfix 1/48 Scale Messerschmitt Bf 109E

2010-09-14T15:06:00.000+01:00

Airfix captured the lines and look of the early Emil in an easy-to-build kit packed with options.

Full article: Airfix 1/48 Scale Messerschmitt BF 109E-1/3/4

World War 1 Model Airplane Kits - How To Build Or Buy The Best WW1 Kit

2010-09-09T10:05:00.000+01:00

World War I was the dawning of military aviation. The aircraft of this war were bi-planes (two-winged) which were largely constructed of lightweight wood, and wire to secure and stabilize the wings. Today, the military aircraft enthusiast can purchase World War I model airplane replicas of practically every design that participated in this war.

World War I model airplanes can be fun to build, especially from a historical perspective. If you are considering building a World War I plane it is first suggested that you do some research and information gathering prior to building your model. This information can be of tremendous help in building a historical replica of your WW1 model, not to forget being a source of inspiration and creativity.

Because the original World War I airplanes were constructed of primarily wood and wire many World War I model airplane manufactures produce their World War I model airplane kits to replicate this construction. Some kits do replicate this construction in plastic, but most are constructed from die cast balsa wood.

After purchasing your kit and gathering the historical information you will want to preview the kit's instructions. This will help you not only in the actual building phase, but will also help you get an idea of how you will apply your historical research to your kit, as there are different versions and styles of World War I military aircraft. The "Red Baron" is a good example.

Also, prior to building your WW1 model plane you'll want to make sure that you have the appropriate work space and tools to build it. Your work space, to include lighting, should be of such to allow you to work comfortably. And your tool box should include all the necessary tools to perform each building phase efficiently.

The most important thing in building your World War I model airplane is to have fun doing it. Model building is a hobby and as such should be fun to do.

Looking for World War 1 Model Airplane Kits or WW1 Model Airplanes?

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Moby_Mode

Using Super Glue As Filler

2010-09-08T11:34:00.000+01:00

Using super glue as filler is a popular technique that has been used for quite some time now. A new twist has been added to this procedure that makes the process of finished sanding much better.

The known technique involves making filler using super glue and baking soda. Also used is a product called micro balloons. These are very small glass beads. They form a very fine powder which is also very soft.

Now the real problem with both these mixtures is that it's easy to over sand your model since both mixtures dry clear. I suggest adding a few drops of leftover ink from an inkjet refill kit to color the baking soda.

I personally use 35mm film canisters, but bigger containers can work just as well, maybe even better since your fingers could fit into the tub. This ink allows for a colored area when the super glue sets.

There is a lot of room for experimentation. Super glue comes in many various forms from very thin mixtures to stuff that is almost a gel like consistency. Try using different types to see which one you can work with the best.

I always experiment on scrap stock before working with my real model so I can get some experience with what is going to happen before going off and junking something I have spent a lot of time working on.

Mixing colors can provide interesting and attractive results. An important tip to keep in mind is that when the colors dry, they are darker than what they first appear. Mixing the colors so they are light at the beginning will help with find the right shade.

Hopefully this new variation can help you the next time you find yourself sanding. Using color filler will help your visibility and improve the accuracy of your finished sanding.

Tanya Glenn is a contest winning plastic car modeler. She runs an informational website that provides tips and techniques. To take advantage of this cool stuff, be sure to check out [http://www.tanyaglenn.com/blog]

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tanya_Glenn

Why The Hobby Of Model Building Continues To Be Popular

2010-09-07T15:03:00.000+01:00

The hobby of building models has been a fun activity for fathers and sons for years. The popularity continues to expand today, and there are more variations of models to build than ever before.

In the past, a store's model selection may have consisted of a few different model cars from which to choose. Now the variations are pretty much unlimited with the business of model building has exploding into a varied array of both the traditional model designs of the past and new ground-breaking designs available now.

There are model boats, airplanes, and even remote control cars and boats which allow you to build a little working vehicle from nothing and then be able to race it all around your town or in the case of a remote boat, you will be able to take it to a local lake or pond. It makes it all the more satisfying and fun knowing you built it yourself.

If you're into architecture, you can buy scale models of famous buildings which will keep you busy for hours and even teach you a thing or two about architecture and construction. Such models are the perfect choice for someone interested in going into a career in architecture, construction, or engineering. It won't teach you how to build an actual building, of course, but it's a lot of fun and it will offer some good training in how architects make scale models of the buildings they wish to create.

Participating in the pastime as a family experience builds close ties and gives an activity that lends to the much sought after quality time. If your kids aren't into detailed model building like creating cars, trucks, or airplanes, or if they are not quite old enough to be able to participate, you can give them something a little less involved like plastic building blocks. Even though this is quite the same experience, building blocks do require a certain amount of skill and dexterity and help teach them in a way that is fun, easy, and educational. They are also good gateway to getting young children into model building.

In general, model building has been an activity that has been mostly enjoyed by the male species, as it were, but more and more women and girls are getting into it. There is no reason they shouldn't; anyone can feel the satisfaction from building something from a humble little kit and adding their own touch to it so you can call it your own. No one else in the whole world has one just like yours even if it comes from the same model building kit, and women are really good at making their versions unique.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Florida. Find more about this as well as scientific gifts [http://www.scientificgiftsplus.com] at [http://www.scientificgiftsplus.com]

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gregg_Hall

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2010-08-03T15:25:00.002+01:00

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Gigantically Tiny Scale Models Of Cities

2010-07-29T16:02:00.000+01:00

These amazing scale cities are a sight to behold.

Moscow, New York, Edinburgh, Shanghai, Shanghai , Nanjing, London, London, Old Jerusalem, Sydney, San Francisco, 4th Century Rome, Singapore, Havana, Beijing, Cincinnati, Pompeii

Scale Model Aircraft - Building Your Skills

2010-07-22T13:03:00.000+01:00

If you are anything like me, chances are you get a massive kick out of completing your latest scale model aircraft. Personally, I love static models and RC models. No matter which hobby fits you the most, I trust you take a keen interest to producing the best quality results.

Fortunately, there are tons of resources out there which can help you build the required skills to build, detail and finish scale model aircraft. For me, this began with the 'Modelling Scale Aircraft' book.

One question I hear a lot is "How can I get better at building these models". The short answer is practice. It comes down to study, learning new skills and starting with better kits and plans. There are so many ways to acquire these things, but they are most definitely not going to come from staying in your comfort zone.

Pushing the boundaries by purchasing more difficult models, or trying out some new technique you may have heard somewhere along the line is a sure fire way to become an expert. It is this willingness to learn that separates the good from the bad, and the end results should fuel your passion.

The internet is a solid place to begin looking for new knowledge which you can apply, but given you are reading this, you've probably already worked that out. However, you are not going to get any better without putting the new stuff you've learned into practice. You might completely mess it up, but that's exactly the point. Messing things up proves you are pushing boundaries, and this is by far the most effective way to learn.

Another extremely good option is purchasing complete guides that take you through the entire process, giving tips along the way. Do ensure that you choose a well illustrated book so that you can see exactly what is being done. This is where I should recommend "Modelling Scale Aircraft", which you can find below, or on the scale model aircraft blog.

Tools

They say that only a poor tradesman blames his tools, but without quality tools, some jobs simply can't be done. What I am saying is that one of the most important things you can do is ensure you have the right tools. On top of that, they should be of high quality. Cheap ones are only going to break and oftentimes make the job harder.

Be it files, an airbrush, blades or brushes, not only does using the right tools make it that much easier to work on your projects, but not having them can make it near impossible to achieve excellent levels of detail.

Jimmy Red
Long time scale and RC model aircraft hobbyist.
http://www.scalemodelaircraft.org

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jimmy_Red

Celebrity’s Spitfire Auction Is A Roaring Success

2010-07-20T11:18:00.000+01:00

Airfix has been supporting Help For Heroes by auctioning off a collection of autographed model Spitfires on eBay.

Full Article: Celebrity’s Spitfire Auction

Airfix 1/72 Douglas Boston III - A Building Review

2010-07-05T14:35:00.000+01:00

Choosing A Scale For Model Trains

2010-06-30T13:00:00.001+01:00

Model trains come in many sizes. Some can reach lengths of up to two feet. Some are even smaller than your finger. But how do you know what the right size of model train you should get?

To start off, train sizes are measured in scale. Scale is the relative measurement of a model to the actual thing it is modeled after or its prototype. In model trains, a standard set of scales is used, each scale represented by a letter. The O scale train for example corresponds to a scale of 1:48, or an O scale model will be 1/48th the size of the actual train its prototype. That means every measurement of the prototype is divided by 48 to get the measurement of the model. If a real train is about 48 feet long (not a real example but you get the idea) the O scale model would be 1 foot long.

There are of course the big trains. G scale trains are one of the biggest. They have a scale of 1:22 (or 1:20 for most American G scale trains). O scale models are half the size of the G scale counterparts, having the numerical scale of 1:48. These models are two of the most popular of the large scale models and will probably be your first choice if you are looking for something big. However, they do come with certain considerations. Their size makes modeling for them rather expensive in terms of real estate. Since the locomotives are already big, everything else will also be big. Imagine building scenery for locomotives this big... you'd need something like a whole yard! In fact some G models have become known as garden models because they can only be used in garden sized tracks.

HO scales are in the middle. They are quite literally half the o scale at 1:87, hence their names. They are usually a good balance between size and functionality. This can also be a good start off point for you since they are one of the most popular scales. This popularity has led to many modeled prototypes in this scale. If you decide to go with HO, you'll have a lot of choices for your modeling needs. They still however require some investment in terms of space. At even at half the size of their larger brothers, these models can still eat up sizable chunks of your rooms.

Smaller scales are of course the friendliest in terms of real estate considerations. Arguably the most popular small scale model is the N scale. At 1:160, almost half the size of the HOs, these are extremely efficient models in terms of space. They are actually known to be even more detailed as far as realism is concerned, often modeling their prototypes more closely than the larger models. This is due to the fact that these scale models were introduced later, when the world of model railroading was becoming less of a children's activity to a more serious hobby.

Other scales do exist, although their popularity is not as great. The S scale for example is slightly smaller than the O scale but larger than the HO scale, at 1:64. There are even larger scale models, up to 1:12 which are almost as big as the train rides in parks. There are also extremely small ones like the Z scale, which reaches about 1:220, or the newer T scale, which reaches a mind boggling 1:450! At this size, you can hold an entire train set in just one hand!

At the end of the day though, you have to remember that there is no one true good scale. They're all good! People love them for different reasons and will continue to build them for their enjoyment. So whatever the scale you end up choosing, as long as you enjoy modeling them, they will always be right for you.

James Stonebright is a model train enthusiast and loves collecting the different types of toy model train. For more great information on Model Train Scale, visit http://www.ModelTrainsGalore.com.

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