HO Model Train Guide
For someone just beginning their journey as a model railway enthusiast, choosing the right model train can be a tricky business. There are various sizes available to choose from but the HO model train is probably the best one to start out with.
HO model trains are the most popular of the more common sizes. The letters HO stand for half standard (or ordinary) and mean that HO trains are half the size of standard model trains.
If you’re going to buy a model train any time soon, here are a few things to remember.
How much space do you have, and what size model train should you buy?
It’s an easy mistake to make – you like the look of a particular model train so you buy it, along with a selection of track. And then you get home only to realize that you don’t have enough room to lay it out. You need to look for a scale when choosing which model train you’re going to buy. The scale will give you an indication of how big it is.
If you’re not sure, go for an HO scale. It’s the size that most hobbyists choose because it strikes a balance between the space it takes up and the amount of detail the trains and accessories have.
What accessories do you need in addition to your model train?
It might be obvious, but an HO model train will need HO gauge tracks to run on. If you’re buying a complete set you’ll automatically get the right size tracks for the included train. If you’re buying the train and tracks separately, make sure you get matching sizes. Double check the labels of both the engine and the tracks to make sure they are HO gauge. Also, check that any scenery you buy is the appropriate size for your HO model trains.
Other things to check
If you’re buying a new HO model train, it’ll almost certainly have something called DDC. This is a controller which enables you to run more than one train at the same time. The DDC is usually fairly obvious to spot, but if you’re in any doubt check with the shop assistant that’s it’s compatible with anything else you’re buying for your model railway.
There’s no doubt that if you’re serious about your model trains you’ll be visiting specialist shops. Apart from being the perfect place to buy your HO model trains, they’re also a great place to pick up hints and tips.
There’s always plenty to learn about different model trains, their characteristics and history, so don’t be shy about asking for information. The shop assistant will almost certainly be a model train enthusiast and more than happy to talk your ears off!
