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US $44.99
What scale train should I do?
I have two friends who do model trains who are getting me into modeling as well. One of my friends is doing HO and the other is doing N. They both argue that theirs is the best so im having trouble deciding which scale to start with. Im not 100% sure on how much space I have to work with, probably 5x6 feet. The size problem sort of points towards N scale but one of my friend says that HO is cheaper and easiar to work with for a beginner. Im looking to do 30's-40's steam so very late era. I want to do some sort of military depot if that means anything. My whole train budget is around 400 dollars so Id say I can spend about half that max. Also any tips on picking trains? Holiday buyers guide? Thanks and any other advice you may be able to give me would be great.
P.S. as far as my space is involved it will only get smaller. I mean my space will be about4x4 ft possibly to 5x6 ft. Im going to do it in my garage. We have a two car garage and Im still discussing space with my dad.
With that small of space perhaps the best thing is to choose the scale you want and build your rolling stock collection until you get more space for a bigger layout even if that is a long time from now. I did that for many years myself. You could also build sections called "modules" that are built to a standard. Events are planned where everyone brings their modules and sets up. They have a large layout for a weekend etc where no one person has the space for their own layout. I am currently making my layout for my house from modules.
Google Modular Model railroad clubs a few different ways to see if there is anyone in your area.
$400.00 is not going to get you very far either if you get new high quality items which really is the only way to go. Cheap trains are just that and will only frustrate you when they don't run well. If you have not experienced DCC (Digital Command Control) for control that is the current standard and where much of the cost comes in.
I am in S Scale for 23 years now, but you are likely to go into HO.
I think it is really good that there are SOME younger kids still getting into the hobby. It really beats the endless wasted hours spent playing video games where you have nothing to show for your time when you are done. If you stick with it, you can have a lifelong hobby that will require you to be a carpenter, an electrician, an artist, and a historian just to name a few all in the quest for making an accurate model railroad.
Just think of yourself as building for the future. There is no rush. The journey can be more fun than arriving at the destination!