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Modelling Narrow Gauge Railways In Small Scales: A Comprehensive Guide

Ed Cooper

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Narrow gauge railways have a special charm that attracts many modellers. They are often built in scenic locations, and their small size makes them easy to fit into a model railway layout. In this article, we will explore the basics of modelling narrow gauge railways in small scales.

Scales

The most popular scales for modelling narrow gauge railways are:

Modelling Narrow Gauge Railways in Small Scales

by Chris Ford

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009, which represents 9mm gauge in 1:76 scale
TTm, which represents 13mm gauge in 1:120 scale
N, which represents 16.5mm gauge in 1:160 scale

Each scale has its own advantages and disadvantages. 009 is the most popular scale for modelling narrow gauge railways in the UK, as it offers a good balance between size and detail. TTm is a smaller scale, which makes it easier to fit into a model railway layout. N is the smallest scale, which makes it ideal for modelling small narrow gauge railways.

Track

The track for narrow gauge railways is typically made of brass or nickel silver. Brass is more expensive than nickel silver, but it is also more durable. Nickel silver is a good choice for modellers who are on a budget.

The track should be laid on a solid base, such as plywood or MDF. The base should be level and free of any debris. The track can be fixed to the base using track pins or glue.

Locomotives

There are a wide range of locomotives available for modelling narrow gauge railways in small scales. These locomotives can be powered by steam, diesel or electricity.

Steam locomotives are the most popular choice for modelling narrow gauge railways. They are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they can be painted in a variety of liveries.

Diesel locomotives are also a popular choice for modelling narrow gauge railways. They are more modern than steam locomotives, and they are often used on branch lines and industrial railways.

Electric locomotives are the least common type of locomotive used on narrow gauge railways. They are typically used on electrified lines in urban areas.

Rolling Stock

The rolling stock for narrow gauge railways is typically smaller than the rolling stock used on standard gauge railways. This is because narrow gauge railways are often used to transport goods and materials in remote areas.

There are a wide range of rolling stock available for modelling narrow gauge railways in small scales. This rolling stock includes coaches, wagons and vans.

Coaches are used to transport passengers on narrow gauge railways. They are typically made of wood or metal, and they can be painted in a variety of liveries.

Wagons are used to transport goods and materials on narrow gauge railways. They are typically made of wood or metal, and they can be painted in a variety of liveries.

Vans are used to transport mail and parcels on narrow gauge railways. They are typically made of wood or metal, and they can be painted in a variety of liveries.

Scenery

The scenery for narrow gauge railways is typically more rural than the scenery for standard gauge railways. This is because narrow gauge railways are often built in scenic locations.

There are a wide range of materials available for modelling the scenery for narrow gauge railways in small scales. These materials include trees, bushes, rocks and water. Trees and bushes can be made from a variety of materials, such as paper, plastic or wire. Rocks can be made from a variety of materials, such as plaster or foam. Water can be made from a variety of materials, such as resin or acrylic paint.

Modelling narrow gauge railways in small scales can be a rewarding experience. It is a great way to learn about the history and operation of narrow gauge railways, and it can also be a lot of fun. With a little planning and effort, you can create a beautiful and realistic model narrow gauge railway.

Modelling Narrow Gauge Railways in Small Scales

by Chris Ford

4.5 out of 5