What is N Scale?
N Scale is a 1/160th scale replica of a prototype (real) train, building, person, automobile or anything else. An N Scale locomotive is 1/160th the length, 1/160th the height and 1/160th the width of the prototype locomotive, and every feature (horn, bell air tanks, etc.) is dimensionally proportional (as close as realistically possible) to the scale of 1:160. For reference, an N Scale 50' Box Car is approximately 3-3/4" in length and approximately 1 inch tall from the wheels to the roof. One N Scale mile is approximately 33 feet.
Originating in Europe, N Scale is today the second most popular modeling scale in North America (HO Scale is first) with about 22% of all modelers. A major advantage of N Scale is the small amount of space needed to build a railroad. It takes half the space required to build an equivalent HO layout. Conversely you can have twice as much layout in the equivalent HO space.
N Scale is sometimes referred to as "N Gauge". The term "gauge" when used correctly actually refers to the distance between the rails of the track. Prototype standard gauge is 4' 8-1/2". Track gauge in N Scale is 9mm. Hence the term "N" (Nine) Scale.
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What is NTRAK?
NTRAK is an international grass roots association of model railroaders which has created a set of standards that anyone may use to build N Scale module, or layout section. These sections join together to form portable layouts of virtually any size; the record-breaking layout at Derby City Express in Louisville, KY in 2008 featured more than 700 modules. They also connect together with other folks who follow the NTRAK standard the world over — countries include Australia, Austria, Canada, Germany, The Netherlands, Switzerland and many others. NTRAK modular layouts have the flexibility to fit into areas of different size and shape, from warehouses to bedrooms.
NTRAK layouts offer close up viewing, correctly proportioned scenery and maximum train action. NTRAK layouts allow long trains of 50, 60 or even 100 cars or more.
More information can be found at the web site of the NTRAK Modular Railroading Society, Inc. at www.ntrak.org
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