G Scale Model Trains
When model train hobbyists refer to large-scale model trains, part of the scales grouped into the large-scale trains is the G scale. Its size is considerably larger compared to other types of model trains. In fact it is the largest of the popular scales that model train hobbyists deal with. G scale model trains are usually 1:22 to the actual size. That means that G scale model trains are one twenty-second of the size of the real train prototype. Other types of model trains come in lower ratios. The O scale which is also considered part of the larger-scale trains is only 1:48 to the actual size which is roughly half the size of the G scale model trains. The G scale model train set has a length of about 26.7 inches and a height of about 6.0 inches in comparison to the O scale model trains which have a length of about 16.1 inches and a height of about 3.6 inches. The G scale model train set was pioneered by Ernst Paul Lehmann Patentwerk, a German company often referred to as Lehmann Gross Bahn (LGB) or “Lehmann Big Train” in English. The company was founded in 1881 and had a USA side of the company called LGB of America.
G scale model trains are large and are also commonly referred to as “Garden Railroading” thus the common use of term “G Scale.” Garden Railroading refers to the fact that g scale train track layouts often times include indoor and outdoor applications. In other words, you can have the train run through your house and then out into the garden! The letter “G” is also short for the German word groß which literally means “big” which coincides with its German history. Just like other large-scale trains, G scale model trains will run on No. 1 gauge track. The No. 1 gauge track is 45 mm between either rail.
It is their durability that makes them the perfect choice to be used in the garden or the outdoors. I purchased a small oval LGP Track Layout, engine, 3 cars and caboose for my kids when they were 2 and 3 years old, they are now 27 and the train still works….a little scuffed but every Christmas it goes up. The box car would carry pet birds, snakes, frogs and a box of toys! G scale tracks are usually made of brass. They require almost no maintenance from the owner. The only thing that these big train lovers need to do is to give the track a single wipe of clean cloth and its set for operations once again. The G scale model trains could be used for indoor purposed as well depending on the make up of the model train.
The best G scale manufacturers in the United States are Aristocraft and Bachmann. People love the benefits of a G scale model train because of its durability. Parents can feel assured that their kids will be able to play with it and have a toy like this that will last for many years to come. G Scale model trains are a great hobby for parents and children to enjoy together as well. Parents can feel confident that their children can handle these trains although small children may lack the gentleness it takes to handle train scales of a smaller size like the N scale which is only about 4.8 inches in length and about 1.1 inches in height. They aren’t just for kids though, my friend started collecting LGB train sets about 30 years ago or more and probably has about 20 different sets!
At first glance g scale model trains might look like large toys for children, however, that statement is anything but true. LGB model trains are intricate, yet tough, engineering marvels with many exciting accessories. With the amount of time that model trains have been around, train makers have given us different size trains for every purpose. This includes the G scale model trains. Your LGB model trains will last for generations with very little maintenance and will make a good investment.
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G Scale Model Trains and Train Layouts…
G scale model trains are part of a group of scaled trains that belong to what’s known as “Large Scale Model Railroad Trains” which by the way includes more than just G scale trains. There’s an understandable and striking differ…
Trackback by Model Railroad Trains — October 7, 2009 @ 4:05 am
HI, I CAN’T AFFORD STAINLEE STEEL TRACK & I HAVE BRASS ALREADY. IS BRASS A MAJOR HEADACK TOO USE & HOW DO YOU KEEP IT CLEAN? THANKS JERRY
Comment by jerry wells — April 26, 2010 @ 3:21 pm