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and are built down to a price. A better quality set will continue to work for years to come. G scale models can be used indoors and out, some are even weatherproof and will continue to run in torrential rain. For this reason, they are suitable for both young and old with garden space. A train can be fitted into a garden in such a way that it enhances the view rather than spoiling it, and plenty of photographs exist on the Internet that will give ideas of how to do this.

Another scale worth considering is On30. Principally offered by Bachmann in the train set market, this has O scale narrow gauge models running on HO scale track. Mining and logging equipment abounds, along with passenger cars and some endearing oddballs such as a vintage truck fitted with rail wheels. It does not take up much space, in fact it will often take up less room than HO. While ready to run models are available the scale is ideal for those who want to have a go at building their own, as it is large enough to work on easily.

Finally, a few pointers that apply to all scales. If you see a set with DCC or Digital on it, do not be alarmed. This is a system that allows independent control of multiple locomotives on the same track, each loco having a small decoder chip installed and programmed to a unique address. It is not difficult to use and requires no prior programming knowledge to get your trains running.

Find a good model shop. You local hobby shop will become a friend and adviser, and will be able to put you in touch with clubs in your area. They will also be able to talk you through the pros and cons of train sets before you spend anything. Unlike some car dealers they want you to have the best product for you, not just the most expensive one.

Have the shop check your new purchases work before you leave. Even brand new models can be dead on arrival, and a good shop will be willing to test the product before you pay. If buying online, check their returns policy. This is a very rare occurrence, but it does happen and has the potential to ruin the experience of the new modeller.

Get a track cleaner of some sort. A good shop will be able to advise. Do not use sandpaper as this will damage the rails, very fine abrasive blocks are available for this purpose.

For smaller scales, make sure you have a flat, solid surface for your track. A proper baseboard is not difficult to build and will reward your effort with far more reliable running.

Enjoy yourself. Too many people become obsessed with fractions of a millimeter and rivet counting. While prototypical accuracy is fine, there is a point at which it becomes a chore rather than fun. If you feel that approaching, a good solution is to buy something completely off the wall just because you like it. A Shinkansen set turning up on your N scale BNSF layout, for example!

Learn more about this author, Matt Gadfield.
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