G Scale Model Railroads -- Make the Most of Your Garden



Posted: Wednesday, August 04, 2010

by Iris Bell

G scale model railroads are a popular and fun way to get the world of trains into your home or backyard garden. Model trains have long been a spark of the young imagination and the passion of many men's dreams. They speak of adventure, mystery, and travel to exotic destinations. And you need not leave your own backyard to do so. G scale model railroads are the large scale, narrow gauge trains perfect for large model rooms and backyard gardens. The G scale is often falsely believed to be the "garden" scale among American collectors. G scale model railroads are named so from the original large scale train LGB, Lehmann Gross Bahn (or Lehmann Large Train), begun in 1968. G scale officially is 1:22.5 scale, but often refers to 1:25 and 1:32 scale. In America, the Garden railroads, or 1:20.3 scale, is often considered among G scale, but are not in reality G scale as they use different track. These are all large-scale model trains, ideal for displays, but are not quite large enough to be ride-on, as are the "backyard railways".

The true distinction of G scale model railroads has to do with the rail gauge. G scale railroads use Gauge 1 rails, 45mm gauge track. These rails are also called "3/8 inch scale"; as each 3/8 inch of track is scaled to 1 foot of real track. Garden scale uses Fn3 scale, or the "1/2 inch scale", 1 foot of track in represented by each 1/2 inch of model track. G scale model trains, or even garden railways, must be made to different standards than the average home model railroad. Being indoor/outdoor trains, G scale trains must withstand sun, rain, weather extremes, leaves on tracks, dirty conditions, or even animals that may approach. When these trains are run by electricity, power dips at the farthest points from the connection, so many opt for different forms of steam output such as butane, solid pellets, or coal. Some opt for rechargeable radio-controlled batteries. Some choose DCC, digital command control, which provides full power to the entire track without being diminished by rain or dirty conditions. G scale model railroads are perfect for families, even with young children, because they are built with durable construction. These trains often come with many working parts that are fixed on smaller sets, and often have digital sound to make realistic train sounds, whether a model of a steam locomotive or a diesel engine.

Features of G scale model trains common with all model trains include that they are made to scale. Other common features involve design and layout. Variety of train cars made with intricate detail and reminiscent of actual trains in history are available. Most who have model railroads not only have train and track, but design buildings, roads, other vehicles, pasture, trees, and hills, animals, water features, and the list goes on. G scale and garden railways allow for large scale imagination, as the only true limitations are the room you dedicate to it. G scale model railroads are an enjoyable hobby. Building the scene for the durable model trains can be an enjoyable on-going activity for the entire family. They are perfect for model rooms and backyard gardens. The only limitations are your family's collective imagination. Want more valuable tips on setting up your own G Scale Model Railroads .Grab your copy of our free mini-course on model railway train secrets today at