N Gauge Forum

General Category => N Gauge Discussion => Topic started by: longbridge on November 22, 2011, 10:06:14 PM

Title: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: longbridge on November 22, 2011, 10:06:14 PM
Why did you choose to model N Gauge?, for me it was because of space restrictions and although I enjoy N Gauge I must admit I prefer HO/OO gauge  (http://www.kolobok.us/smiles/madhouse/russian_roulette.gif)

I have built British steam OO gauge layouts in the past but felt restricted in a 10ft x 5ft shed, modelling N Gauge in the same space is like a mini empire by comparison, I also think N gauge looks more realistic than other gauges.

Would be interesting to hear why others chose N gauge.

Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: EtchedPixels on November 22, 2011, 10:17:38 PM
Quote from: oldrailbug on November 22, 2011, 10:06:14 PM
Why did you choose to model N Gauge?

Initially space, although when I got back into modelling I had a small OO layout as well before deciding that N gave me much more of what I wanted in terms of long trains, flowing scenery and the like where OO was really limited to a stubby suburban in and out station and yard at best.

I'd have picked somewhere between the two but 3mm isn't exactly an RTR scale. Some day when I have copious time (ho ho) I'd love to dabble in NZ120 (1:120 on N track) and model some of the African railways with it.

Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: oscar on November 22, 2011, 10:27:58 PM
'Cos I was off my head!   :smiley-laughing:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Oldman on November 22, 2011, 10:37:14 PM
Coz I couldn't get the fingers working enough to continue in Z and Zm. :o
Plus my very very first Train set when I was little was Lone Star 000. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: tadpole on November 22, 2011, 10:54:04 PM
Space, space and space. But not necessarily in that order.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Pengi on November 23, 2011, 06:54:26 AM
OO too big and Z would have been my choice but it did not have the locos that I wanted - hence N. Was going to go into N when I first got into model railways but was disappointed by the lack of modern EMUs and still am. So keeping an OO circle of track to run Pendo and an old Blue Pullman (bought by my late father).
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: AndyGif on November 23, 2011, 09:05:55 AM
definately the space factor for me, thou saying that still had to condense why plans down....
apparently you cant get a scale 1500m long platform into a 10foot long room....
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Chinahand on November 23, 2011, 09:13:03 AM
So that I could model a more landscaped layout with realistic length trains running through it.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: GrahamB on November 23, 2011, 09:42:44 AM
Lack of space.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Sprintex on November 23, 2011, 09:45:45 AM
Quote from: Chinahand on November 23, 2011, 09:13:03 AM
So that I could model a more landscaped layout with realistic length trains running through it.

What Trevor said  ;D


Paul
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Tank on November 23, 2011, 10:59:05 AM
I started with N because it's what mummy and daddy Tank bought me when I was 'ickle! ;D  It was all secondhand, although looked fifth-hand!  :smiley-laughing:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: jonclox on November 23, 2011, 11:04:53 AM
To keep SWMBO happy as I had been in hospital for ages and found that I had become disabled whilst in there. She said that I had to get a hobby and as the 2 boys (now grownups) had 2 GF train sets from the early/mid 1980s around it was decided that I should make use of them  ::)
Eldest son built me a 3ft X 5ft layout board and the rest is history.
Its still an ongoing project but 'resting' at the momment whilst I dabble in Z gauge
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: H on November 23, 2011, 11:47:05 AM
I had O gauge when very young and then OO as a young lad (didn't know better), but when I got back in to model railways (late 1970s) I chose N gauge because it looked and felt more sophisticated, acceptable, desirable and was relatively new and therefore something for the future. Oddly enough nothing to do with space, although that is an undoubted benefit.

H.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Crackerbill on November 23, 2011, 12:03:17 PM
I found that 00 gauge was impractical for a serving member of the RAF due to the restictions in married quarters, therefore in the late 1960s I ventured into the the wonderful new world of N gauge.  I was in Singapore at the time and all that was available was Minitrix, Arnold and Fleischmann in German outline. My two young sons were delighted with "their" new trains and the "toys" in 00 were quickly sidelined.  Over the years I have slowly changed to British outline, but found the offerings by Graham Farish and Lima to be poor substitutes for the German models.  Joy and bliss when Minitrix started offering British outline locomotives.

I continued to collect locomotives over the years, but eventually gave most of my N gauge to my grandsons.

I did however have withdrawal pains after I retired and returned to the hobby some 6 years ago, testing the water on newer models and finding some considerable improvements.  So, as she who must be considered and obeyed, only allowed me the box room for my layout I again returned to N gauge.  I have built a 7ft x 3ft layout and currently have an ongoing project to build a Steam Loco Depot - all in British outline.  Unfortunately I am finding modelling more difficult these days, as my eyes are not what they used to be and there are some dexterity problems. But I love my N Gauge  :NGaugersRule:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on November 23, 2011, 12:22:16 PM
When I was aged between 9 and 12 I had an OO toy layout. From age 11 I started travelling round the country trainspotting (yes, you could do that safely then!!) and once I'd got to the stage of own house etc, I looked to see what I could get into the space available, given that I wanted at least 6 coach trains and decent goods rakes. By that time, N gauge had improved remarkedly so it had to be  :NGAUGE:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: SD35 on November 23, 2011, 12:40:50 PM
I was brought up with it.  My folks bought me the Farish 08 freight set for Christmas about 1981-ish and soon after a Lima 31 and 4 Mk1s along with making a 6x3ft twin track layout with plenty of sidings for messing with.  I've stuck with N ever since and the current layout has roughly a scale 2.2 mile run before the train completes the loop which simply wouldn't be achieveable with the room I have in OO gauge.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: moogle on November 23, 2011, 01:29:31 PM
When I was about 12 and still at senior school (high school or whatever its called these days!) I belonged to the school model railway club. I only modelled that other scale then, (o.k, 'OO', I hate swearing on here!) and didn't really know about N gauge.

The school held an exhibition each year and the club members naturally took part. Good for your education you see!  :thumbsup:
Well, me and a friend of mine who was also a member were put in charge of this layout built on an old wooden door. (Very HEAVY!)

It was in N gauge and the teacher who ran the club trusted us with his stock to run on it. So that was my introduction to N gauge
and after two days of running this layout (just two loops, a station with goods yard and some storage sidings) I was hooked!  :)

N gauge was the scale for me and even though I have dabbled with other scales from time to time, I have stuck with N gauge and
thats all I model in now.  :NGaugersRule:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: poliss on November 23, 2011, 03:31:34 PM
Bought an Arnold Rapido catalogue from Bakers model shop, Gillingham in 1971. There was so much more variety than what was in the Tri-ang range.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Lawrence on November 23, 2011, 03:41:32 PM
Space for me too, like crackerbill I am ex RAF so a small bit of chipboard was all I could really make do with. I then had about a 25 year break all told and finally got back into it by picking up some cheap Baltimore & Ohio stuff from that auction site  ::)  and it allows me the flexibility it track design.  The last layout had radii anywhere from 7" up to about 20"
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: moogle on November 23, 2011, 03:48:49 PM
Quote from: poliss on November 23, 2011, 03:31:34 PM
Bought an Arnold Rapido catalogue from Bakers model shop, Gillingham in 1971. There was so much more variety than what was in the Tri-ang range.

My 1st N gauge stuff came from Bakers!
Was recommended by the teacher that ran the mrc at my school.
Went with my dad all the way there on an old Atlantean from Gravesend.
A shake, rattle and roll journey for sure!  ;)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: poliss on November 23, 2011, 03:57:45 PM
I wasn't even planning to go to Gillingham. Two trains per hour from Queenborough, one to Sittingbourne, the other to Victoria. Got on the wrong train, ended up in Gillingham. Dodged the ticket collector (wrong ticket). Nearly had a heart attack when he shouted, "Oi You!". Thought I'd been caught, but he was after the passenger behind me.  ;D
Spent a lovely afternoon browsing in Bakers. That was 40 years ago. Couldn't tell you what I did yesterday though.  ??? :smiley-laughing:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: moogle on November 23, 2011, 04:14:43 PM
Quote from: poliss on November 23, 2011, 03:57:45 PM
I wasn't even planning to go to Gillingham. Two trains per hour from Queenborough, one to Sittingbourne, the other to Victoria. Got on the wrong train, ended up in Gillingham. Dodged the ticket collector (wrong ticket). Nearly had a heart attack when he shouted, "Oi You!". Thought I'd been caught, but he was after the passenger behind me.  ;D
Spent a lovely afternoon browsing in Bakers. That was 40 years ago. Couldn't tell you what I did yesterday though.  ??? :smiley-laughing:

A happy accident if ever there was one!  ;)

1984 I 1st visited there. Lovely shop, went back a few times.
Sadly just a memory now...
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: grastairs on November 23, 2011, 04:21:06 PM
Small House Syndrome led me to choose N when I returned to the hobby earlier this year.

Found a space half-way up the staircase and am now the proud owner of a bare baseboard and lots of bits and bobs (mainly GWR) from ebay (having been careful to always only bid to my budget, and always well below shop prices).

Having ignored the reminder letters from SpecSavers for a while, I eventually went along and got fitted-up with new glasses ... only to find that I'm still squinting a little when looking at my Panniers and Prairies. Will have to see how it goes, but while I can see everything perfectly clearly in my head (where it's a very grand, almost "Fine-Scale" layout), I do have a worrying feeling that I'll end-up producing something in the "Impressionist" fashion.

I do get to dabble in OO, helping a workmate build his layout. Cheeky git came round the other day .... standing in front of my collection, he says "Where is it?"  :(
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: EtchedPixels on November 23, 2011, 04:31:22 PM
Quote from: grastairs on November 23, 2011, 04:21:06 PM
I do get to dabble in OO, helping a workmate build his layout. Cheeky git came round the other day .... standing in front of my collection, he says "Where is it?"  :(

Should have told him to go to specsavers 8)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: grastairs on November 23, 2011, 04:55:09 PM
Quote from: EtchedPixels on November 23, 2011, 04:31:22 PM
Quote from: grastairs on November 23, 2011, 04:21:06 PM
I do get to dabble in OO, helping a workmate build his layout. Cheeky git came round the other day .... standing in front of my collection, he says "Where is it?"  :(

Should have told him to go to specsavers 8)


Oh don't worry .... I told him exactly where to go!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Fratton on November 23, 2011, 05:12:37 PM
when i was a lad i had an 00 gauge railway on a flimsy board with drawn on scenery i loved it but it was a toy, my grandfather had a N gauge layout on a board smaller than mine in his spare room and i wasnt allowed to touch it,,,,, its the forbidden fruit thing with me, i knew when i re-started for real in moddel railways i would do it in N (im still not allowed to touch my grandads N gauge stuff!!!!!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: OwL on November 23, 2011, 05:36:43 PM
After a sea side holiday to torbay back in 1990, I visited a shop in Dartmouth called Battersbea's (dont know if he is still there), my folks bought me an N Gauge Brake van (which I still proudly own) and a length of flexi track.

The rest is history as my collection grew and grew.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Mustermark on November 23, 2011, 06:44:18 PM
When I was 12 or so my dad got me into OO and helped me build first a 6 x 4 and eventually an 18 x 5 layout in the attic.

I would go to Reading station trainspotting and go to Eames train shop around the corner to look at all the Hornby stuff.  It was while I was there that I fell in love with the tiny little N gauge stuff.  Never owned any as a kid, but I just loved it.  The locos and the Wiking lorries.

When I was about 30 I bought an N gauge Western Gauntlet, just coz I loved Westerns and because I wanted something N gauge.  Then several years later I ended up starting a huge collection of rolling stock and track... but still with no layout.  Now that I have a spare room I'm finally building a layout in N gauge.

It appeals to me mainly because it is is so small, but also because of the space you can use.  In my spare room I can manage to model Reading station and have a long stretch to watch full length trains run through countryside.  You couldn't do that in OO.  If I was going to model for detail that you can actually see I think I'd go up to O gauge.

Interesting thread - it's fun to read people's thoughts. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: poliss on November 23, 2011, 06:54:34 PM
This was in the Arnold catalogue that I bought which shows a good reason to go N scale.

(http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t184/Poliss_album/Misc/ArnoldCat.jpg)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Lawrence on November 23, 2011, 06:58:08 PM
Quote from: poliss on November 23, 2011, 06:54:34 PM
This was in the Arnold catalogue that I bought which shows a good reason to go N scale.

(http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t184/Poliss_album/Misc/ArnoldCat.jpg)

Given it is now 40 years old I take it there are no copyright issues with this image now  ;)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: poliss on November 23, 2011, 07:02:21 PM
Whatsisname hasn't had any problems with Hornby about him uploading all their old catalogue images, and Arnold are part of Hornby now.
http://www.hornbyguide.com/default.asp
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Pete Mc on November 23, 2011, 07:15:00 PM
I got my first train set as a boy when I was about 7 or 8.It was a hymek with 4 wagons and a brake van,with an oval of track and a siding.It didn't have an electric controller,instead it had a controller which sat on top of 2 6v batteries.My uncle,who was an electrician built a proper controller and this is how I started.It was a oo gauge hornby set and a few years later,for christmas,my brother and I were given a 5x3 double track layout on a baseboard.It was a twin track layout with a goods yard and two top sidings.This was replaced a couple of years later by an 8x8 layout with a central operating well.It had electric points and instead of two tracks,it had 3 continuous loops.As well as this,we had a selection of new and used loco's ajd rolling stock such as a hst,an apt,mallard,j72,GWR pannier tank,peak and the hymek.The Mallard,APT and some of the rolling stock are still in my dads possesion at his house.
After a couple of years with this layout,my brother lost interest in model railways and became interested in snooker so it was decided the layout had to go.I have to admit though,for a few short months,I did enjoy playing snooker,until my brother started beating me.He is almost 3 years younger than I am,and he started to get good very quickly.So I lost interest in that and seemed to be somewhat listless.I didn't take up drink or drugs and father many children like so many young lads do today though,I just got on with things and life.Left shool,got a job,a bird,married her,divorced her,had some more birds,didn't marry any of them though and we arrive at the time of about 18 months ago.
My mum had to have a liver transplant due to an auto immune disease and was in a very bad way.Having been moved from St James's hospital to our local hospital,my uncle whi built the two previous layouts had a stroke and was in the same hospital as my mum.So both my dad and I decided to visit.He visited my uncle and I visited them both.This carried on for a week or two,but when I went in to see my uncle,he always had Railway Modellor and Hatton's catalogues on his bed side.I had a look at these and all of a sudden,fire reignied in my belly.So for the next six months I planned a layout.
I didn't decide on n gauge until august of last year when I realised a 10x4 ft board wouldn't fit much oo gauge stuff on it,so n gauge it had to be.
A decision I don't regret at all.As a single chap,I have a 2 bedroom house that had a spare room full of accumulated rubbish,I cleared the room out and discovered the ideal place for my layout.It was here that my layout began.It is a 10 ft by 4 ft continuous run twin track run,with an upper station area and TMD.The track starts off from a 10 road storrag yard and goes around the board 3 times beforw it returns to the storage yard.I can run full 8 coach rake hst's,rull rake deltic's,24 wagon tank and hopper formations and is exactly as I wanted it to be.It took an awful lot of track to make it and the scenics will consist of mainly townscapes mounted above teack level.There will be a cutting at the front with the 4 parallel lines appearing and disappearing into tunnel mouths at each end.It is currently dc operated,but in the new year I will upgrade to dcc with a NCE Powercab with my loco's,hst's,deltics,classes 47's,37's,58,56,dmu's and rtc class 24 being chipped with sound decoders as well as time goes by.
The main reason I chose n gauge is obviously space and now I have a kittke experience in n gauge,I wouldn't go.back to oo fir a gold pig.
I love  :NGAUGE:
Sorry to bore you,this is my story.
Pete
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: tim-pelican on November 26, 2011, 11:15:38 PM
I had the idea of a model railway bouncing around in my head on and off for a few years, but never had the space or the conviction that I was being anything other than silly.

When we moved at the beginning of the year, I had more space in the conservatory, and started thinking I could do some kind of shunting plank in OO, but I didn't know if there'd be enough interest there to keep me going.

Finally, I went to a show and saw modern, exhibition-quality N-gauge in action.  Seeing what can be done, and how good those models look - and a much better size in context than sat on the shelf of the model shop next to their OO brethren - has inspired me to have a go myself.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: H on November 27, 2011, 08:09:17 AM
Quote from: poliss on November 23, 2011, 03:31:34 PM
Bought an Arnold Rapido catalogue from Bakers model shop, Gillingham in 1971.

I remember Bakers Model Shop in Gillingham in the early 70s. I used to go to school at the then new Gillingham Technical High School (from 1967 to 74). It's now called Rainham Grammar I believe.

H.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: bbdave on November 27, 2011, 08:30:26 PM
It was purely space with me but having now looked at OO i much prefer N it looks more realistic for some reason OO look like toys to me.

Dave
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: michael on November 27, 2011, 08:37:51 PM
because oo is for 7 year olds!

in all seriousness, like many others its the space. sometimes I wonder if Id be better off with oo because of the better choice and IMO better value but theres no way I could build penzance in my garage without making some major sacrifices!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: spurno on November 29, 2011, 04:05:17 PM
because of my father in law who is now no longer with us.i just want to finish what he started.he never quite got there.
also space as i only have the spare room.8ft x 7 ft.

cheers

alan
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Dave F on November 29, 2011, 09:15:51 PM
It started off as a space thing because I only had a small corner to build a layout in. But now I've emptied out the loft I can be more ambitious and try and create a landscape around the railway.

Dave
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: matteos on November 29, 2011, 11:05:48 PM
My Grandfather modelled N Gauge and I inherited a lot of his stuff and I have gone on from there.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: poliss on November 29, 2011, 11:36:08 PM
I was around when N gauge was invented, and you say your grandfather modelled it. Makes me feel very old.  :'(
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: mr magnolia on November 29, 2011, 11:40:27 PM
spent many hours while at high school standing at the bus stop with nose pressed against window of a model shop that had unimaginably expensive n gauge matters in the window (1970s). Kept it on the back burner for another few years until my 50th came along and a bunch of peeps bought me a 00 set that I immediately had to swap for the 1:148 stuff as it just looks so much better.  Small and working - satisfies the engineering interest.  Just need to keep my girls interested in it to help maintain the family acceptance! 'our' layout is in the main bedroom and from time to time life can be arranged such that mrs m can drift off to sleep to the gentle sound of small trains roaming their circuits.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: GWR-Kris on December 19, 2011, 12:27:20 PM
i started off with OO gauge, i do enjoy it, and prefer OO for some aspects such as there is more stuff out there. But i chose N guage as you can fit and do alot more with the same space.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: James C on December 19, 2011, 12:55:54 PM
Quote from: bbdave on November 27, 2011, 08:30:26 PM
It was purely space with me but having now looked at OO i much prefer N it looks more realistic for some reason OO look like toys to me.

Dave

Similar with me... I had an 8 x 4 OO layout and just didn't have the space, so sold most of it and switched to N, and I feel that the models are more models, and less toys.

I do regret the bit more effort required to chip to DCC some of the models though, but every year more and more are being released with a socket, and to be fair anything is possible so far it seems with regards to chipping.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: bluedepot on February 23, 2012, 06:17:16 PM
why oh why did i choose n gauge.... i must be mad...


tim
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: jyoungs on March 08, 2012, 12:56:32 PM
Like many others I started with an oo set in the 1970`s !!!(the hornby freighliner one with an 08 and 2 container waggons, with extra track and a brake van) this was set up on a board and gave many happy hours over the following years.Then I discovered motorbikes and girls and the set was packed away. Several years ago I was looking in the local model shop and saw some n gauge locos, I was interested and kept thinking about it over the next few years. Then with my 50th birthday looming I bought a couple of model railway magazines and kept on dropping hints like "cor - I really would like one of those" and left the mags open at the "n" stuff. All the family clubbed together and bought me a selection of track and rolling stock and the rest, as they say ,is history - I`ve lost track of how much I`ve added to it and how much money has been spent!. Incidently I still have my original oo set complete with the triang system 4 track and it still works (after a fashion). The amount that can be fitted in a small space is just an extra bonus.  ;D ;D :NGaugersRule:             regards, jon. 
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: silly moo on March 08, 2012, 05:55:42 PM
The size of N gauge has always appealed to me. I'm still amazed at the detail and running qualites of N Gauge.

When I was about three or four we lived in Teddington and I remember a toy shop with a layout in the window which was operated by a penny in the slot. I used my pocket money to buy Lone Star Locos and Matchbox cars. I still have the Lone Star but not the cars. I can also remember seeing Q1s shunting somewhere near to our house ( possibly Feltham )

I remember getting a clockwork trainset and a doll when I had my tonsils out. Then we moved to Hayling Island for a few years. I'm convinced the railway was one of the main reasons we moved there, my father was a railway enthusiast. Hayling Billy made quite an impression on me.

Then it was off to Zambia and finally to South Africa, by then I had put the model railways to one side and only became interested again when I started working near a very large hobby shop. They sold German models and although the German N Scale was appealing I didn't really relate to it and it was only after a visit to England that I discovered some Graham Farish in Hamleys. I came back with a Black Five, two coaches and a length of flexitrack. I built my first layout on a door using the fatal combination of Atlas points and Farish locos, after a lot of trial and error I got the layout to run reasonably well. While my children were growing up the layout was mothballed.

I took it out about 16 years ago, replaced the dreadful Atlas points with Peco ones and joined a model railway club. That was the best thing I could have done and my modelling improved no end. The layout on the door has been completely re done and extended. Our club has an N Trak modular layout and to date I have built four modules and a portable 00 layout ( to run all the models I bought in 00 because they weren't available in N )

I'm very pleased that my parents didn't stop me from playing with cars and trains when I was little, I've always found them much more interesting than girls toys although I had lots of them as well. I'm also lucky that I was welcomed into the local model railway club and treated as one of the boys. The fact that I'm interested in railways still raises a few eyebrows. I'm lucky that my husband encourages my hobby although he does get a bit frustrated when the house fills up with model railway paraphernalia when I'm building something.

Regards

Veronica

:Class37:

Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on March 08, 2012, 06:56:41 PM
Hi Veronica, and thanks for the explanation of how you came into the hobby but even more, thanks for sticking with it especially as your main interest seems to be UK outline :thumbsup:
Gawd bless your hubbie too :beers:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Pengi on March 08, 2012, 07:30:35 PM
Hi Veronica. My late father was a great fan of steam trains, Hayling, and the Hayling Billy in particular.  He built an OO layout based on it (complete with hand-made bridge). Although the Billy line track is ripped up, it has been turned into a scenic walk and cycleway starting from Havant through to Langstone and then from the top of Hayling down to where the old station was. There have been rumours about having a narrow gauge railway for part of the way. They really need the Billy back, as the traffic congestion can be horrendous coming on and off the island in summer.

What was the old station at North Hayling is now a small nature reserve - don't know what happened to the ghost! There is a good book on it from the Middleton Press range.

Jane
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: longbridge on March 08, 2012, 08:23:10 PM
A girlfriend and I were holding hands and window shopping back in the early 1960s when we came across a hobby shop, in the window I saw my first N Gauge locomotives which were mostly German but they also had a little crimson 4F steam loco, instant love for the model and my girlfriend thought I was a nut, needless to say a few weeks later the girlfriend got the boot and I got the loco.

It wasn't until the 1980s that I got into N Scale properly though when I built a small layout using American models in my photographic darkroom, this was great as I used to play trains in private because my Wife also thought I was a nut for playing with toy trains (boy could I pick them), she is now an ex Wife and my current Wife encourages me with the hobby because she loves me (I think).

N scale is not my first preference in model railways but because of space restrictions I am quite happy modelling N, my first preference is American HO scale.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: railwaysymphony on March 08, 2012, 10:00:00 PM
For me it was a bit of a no brainer - my father modelled N gauge, and after dismantling his old layout, kept everything in storage. Now that I'm gearing up to start something it makes sense to get all the N out of storage, rather than spend a bucketload of money on HO/OO. I was originally considering modelling Australian HO as there are some fantastic models out there, but it's just so darned expensive. That, and I feel like N Gauge is the adult's scale, HO/OO is for kids!

And yes, I did do a bit of HO/OO as a child - I had a layout and a few bits and pieces of rolling stock, but my very first layout was N gauge, with a Class 08 and a few small coaches, I learned to respect the little stuff early on and now I can't imagine modelling any other scale :) Just a pity there's very little Australian N Gauge out there! Fortunately I quite like British outline :)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: oil2435 on April 18, 2012, 11:39:50 PM
for me it was a bit of a joke to start with being six feet tall and about the same width my family thought it funny so ive stuck with it but that aside the stock available is on the whole good and what can be achieved is fantastic so real :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: geminijkr on April 19, 2012, 04:43:56 PM
I started with OO as a boy and when TT came out moved to that to get more model in a given space and then when N became commercially available i moved to that. My first N layout included some ooo rolling stock and my first loco was a rather crude LNER kit with an Arnold Chassis. Since then my layout has grown considerably and as we now live in Canada with a finished basement I have a large layout which allows for a lot of track and still space for landscaping for the 9-10 coach trains running through it. I now have well over 100 locos, some specially built from kits by professional kit builders in the UK but with all the new models of Eastern BR several of those are being retired.
Keith
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: galway on April 19, 2012, 07:02:27 PM
Quote from: geminijkr on April 19, 2012, 04:43:56 PM
I started with OO as a boy and when TT came out moved to that to get more model in a given space and then when N became commercially available i moved to that. My first N layout included some ooo rolling stock and my first loco was a rather crude LNER kit with an Arnold Chassis. Since then my layout has grown considerably and as we now live in Canada with a finished basement I have a large layout which allows for a lot of track and still space for landscaping for the 9-10 coach trains running through it. I now have well over 100 locos, some specially built from kits by professional kit builders in the UK but with all the new models of Eastern BR several of those are being retired.
Keith

Hi Keith any  :camera: of your layout? sounds interesting

Paul
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: EtchedPixels on April 19, 2012, 07:30:26 PM
Quote from: geminijkr on April 19, 2012, 04:43:56 PM
My first N layout included some ooo rolling stock and my first loco was a rather crude LNER kit with an Arnold Chassis.

An 0-6-0 steam loco with tender ?
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: geminijkr on April 22, 2012, 02:13:23 AM
I have uploaded some pictures including the original N Gauge kit which still runs. My first attempt at loco building. Some of the picture leave a bit to be desired in quality I need better lighting! I will post some more if people are interested.
Keith
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Pengi on April 22, 2012, 08:04:53 AM
Quote from: geminijkr on April 22, 2012, 02:13:23 AM
I have uploaded some pictures including the original N Gauge kit which still runs. My first attempt at loco building. Some of the picture leave a bit to be desired in quality I need better lighting! I will post some more if people are interested.
Keith

Hi Keith, can't see the pictures :'(
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Sprintex on April 22, 2012, 09:41:55 AM
I can, they're in the Media section  :thumbsup:

Blimey Keith, that's a HUGE layout! :o Definitely interested in more pictures if you can get them please, looks like a nice bit of modelling that  :)


Paul
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on April 22, 2012, 10:21:11 AM
I've just checked out the pics in the Media section and that is one Monster layout. It looks superb :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Donkey on April 22, 2012, 10:30:48 AM
Wow that's some layout Keith. Thanks for posting  :camera:

Marty
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Malc on April 22, 2012, 10:45:41 AM
I come from a railway family..grandfather,father, brothers and uncles. I even had a summer job working as a messenger boy for the Hartlepool Traffic Agent. Collecting way bills and delivering running orders to signal boxes. Hence I always had an interest in trains. Had a 00 layout as a nipper, but never had time since. One of my colleagues in Norway has a big N gauge layout and my wife saw it and decided I needed a hobby when I retired, so she suggested a railway layout. N gauge seemed the obvious choice. Not sure if she regrets the decision now. :)

Malc
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: geminijkr on April 23, 2012, 02:39:55 AM
Thanks for all the great comments. I have uploaded some more pictures to the East Lincolnshire Album. These show some of the areas that need finishing and updating, particularly the Louth section, which is probably 10 years old. The emphasis has been on building the front part with Spalding. Still work to do there on the station buildngs, particularly the canopies which are going to be very tricky to get right. The goods sheds are temporary. the one close to the station is a holdover from a previous layout of Rugby Central and the other is obviously a Metcalfe kit. A big part of modelling a real location is the research that goes into getting as close to reality as possible. Over time photographs show the changes but I model a specific period of time within the constraints of a model with limited space, even with the space I have. The Eagle eyed will notice an HST which is totally out of context but I just like the model. I am still searching for photos of the ladies waiting room on the Main Island platform and the M&GN building on their platform, currently using a Scale scenes building as close as I know at the moment.
Keith
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Tackleberry on April 28, 2012, 10:54:00 AM
Basically I started in N because my uncle was in the RAF and when I was younger we passed by to see him when we were on holiday and he had a book on model railways which I read and showed us a couple of locos....
Cue that Christmas and me and my brother got those very locos - my brother got the Deltic and I got the class 25 and the class 08 and I took it from there.....
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: johnwillimas on April 30, 2012, 02:09:46 PM
Started to build my son a railway for his 5th brithday and didn't really have space for 00.

Now being nagged to get it finished for my grandson's fifth birthday - still I've got three years to go yet.... ;)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on April 30, 2012, 02:50:44 PM
Quote from: johnwillimas on April 30, 2012, 02:09:46 PM
Started to build my son a railway for his 5th brithday and didn't really have space for 00.

Now being nagged to get it finished for my grandson's fifth birthday - still I've got three years to go yet.... ;)

Tempus fugit, as the Romans used to say :smiley-laughing: :smiley-laughing:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Jerry Howlett on April 30, 2012, 04:22:43 PM
Quote from: johnwillimas on April 30, 2012, 02:09:46 PM
Started to build my son a railway for his 5th brithday and didn't really have space for 00.

Now being nagged to get it finished for my grandson's fifth birthday - still I've got three years to go yet.... ;)

So...was there any rush ?. :smiley-laughing: :smiley-laughing:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: dodger on April 30, 2012, 06:00:27 PM
I started with clockwork O gauge when very young, but soon wanted and electric trainset. At this time (1950's)  the only choice was OO either Triang or Hornby Dublo.

I had a dabble with TT in the 1960's but there was very little still in production so it was back to OO.

The change to n gauge came about 20 years ago when space prevented decent length trains in OO.

A move 2 years ago meant a further reduction in space and only a single track through station was possible, as its on the South Coast there is still the chance to run the odd excursion and holiday express plus the regular school train.

The improvement in available models in the last few years has been very welcome as has the improved detail. I am enjoying n gauge even more now but the eyes prevent building of many kits that are available.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Matthew-peter on June 11, 2012, 04:41:27 PM
Ive always liked n gauge, the size means more room for running and a new challenge for scenics. Nowadays with all of the models coming out with more detail means its even better for what I want, although it has taken a while to get my layout from paper to reality. It was my first job that really pushed me to ngauge, my parents got me the gift of an n gauge farish starter set, the one with the 08 and it got me hooked haha
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: upclosevideo on June 17, 2012, 08:35:23 PM
New to model railways, played with my cousins 00 gauge train set as a nipper and was smitten but never "aquired " one in early life.
Many years on and the possibility of running multiple trains at the same time on the same tracks and getting quite an interesting  layout in a small space, 50 x 30 inches in my case, as well as designing and building scenery etc was just too tempting  ;D
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: apsheehan on June 18, 2012, 12:04:37 PM
Simply size in my flat, and the possibility of long train lengths if i get the opportunity to build a bigger layout later.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Flounder on July 15, 2012, 03:52:12 PM
I just had room for a classic 6ft x 4ft board in my bedroom whilst at school, and n gauge offered so many more layout possibilities, with different levels being easy to achieve.  My Dad had OO and G Gauge layouts, and I wanted to be different.

23 years later and I am still exclusively n gauge, and now have a 17ft x 8ft space which I am starting to plan a layout for.

Cheers,
Flounder.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on July 15, 2012, 04:01:21 PM
Hi Flounder - welcome to the forum (saw your 1st post about the A4's) :wave:

Cripes - 17' x 8' - that is one heckuva space :o

What era/livery etc are you modelling as we're a nosey lot and like to know what everyone's up to? ;) What track system? DCC/DC?
I reckon you'll be asked more questions than you'll be asking us :smiley-laughing: :smiley-laughing:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Flounder on July 15, 2012, 05:29:30 PM
The space was 3rd on the list of house requirements when we moved a couple of years ago.  A simple set-up of baseboards with a central well is as far as I have got - the trouble with the space is I don't know where to start, so have been content with two large loops and some passing loops to watch trains go by whilst I mull over the possibilities. I'll definately be having a large loco depot, lots of mainline running and seperate high level electrified tracks.

I mainly collect UK outline from 1990 onwards, but have recently started acquiring a selection of continental (mostly swiss) stuff.  I am definately not a prototypical modeller. For example running this afternoon have been a full length Kato orange TGV, a Dapol 153, Dapol 67 and my kids have been running the Tomix James.  I enjoy operating more than building, and have mostly RTR stock with a number of repaints (mostly Farish 60's) being supplied by a modeller and Forum member who knows a lot more than I do. Oh, and its DC for the forseeable future.

Hope to gain some good tips from the Forum over the coming weeks and months. 

Flounder 

Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Pengi on July 15, 2012, 05:46:05 PM
Welcome Flounder - great to have you on board. Jealous of that TGV though!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: galway on July 15, 2012, 08:27:50 PM
Welcome aboard Flounder  :wave:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Ollie3440 on August 03, 2012, 08:04:42 PM
I started out with a 00 trainset i was given when i was 5 (a whole 15 years ago!) I had (and still do) an 8x4 layout professionally built as a birthday present one year but after seeing N Gauge i slowly drifted away from 00.

N gauge just had a certain appeal to me, i liked the idea of having a scale length trains as i admit i'm a bit of a stock collector!


Ollie
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on August 03, 2012, 09:22:39 PM
Quote from: Ollie3440 on August 03, 2012, 08:04:42 PM
i admit i'm a bit of a stock collector!

Ollie

If a shortage of Farish MK1's occurs, we'll know who to blame ;D
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Ollie3440 on August 03, 2012, 10:21:40 PM
Quote from: newportnobby on August 03, 2012, 09:22:39 PM

If a shortage of Farish MK1's occurs, we'll know who to blame ;D

I don't know what you mean, it's not as if i have a load of them :p
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii309/olliereading1123/N%20Gauge/SDC15151.jpg)

See, there is nowhere near enough there :p

Ollie
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Klink on August 11, 2012, 08:25:10 AM
Can I borrow those? no wonder we had a stock shortage at our last exhibition ;)

In my case I would.say N gauge is my primary scale simply because im in charge of the clubs N gauge team and I csn.run what I like! My OO stuff has low.priority of apearing on a HO South Australian layout at exhibitons...
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Portpatrick on October 16, 2012, 10:31:16 AM
I changed from OO in 1976.  Not sure why exactly.  A mix of things.  The diea of more in the space was attractive.  I relished a totally new challenge.  And there was "PC49" a member at Northolt, who extolled its virtues at any opportunity.  And there was some evidence of the avaiability of decent (OK not perhaps by today's higher standards) quailty stock becoming avialable - for LMS fans like me at least.  Farish was starting to get under way and the kit market was birthing.

I was also inspired by seeing Fort Ness on the exhibition circuit.  Must be part of where my more recent Scottish interest came from.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: longbridge on October 16, 2012, 10:42:33 AM
I noticed that I started this thread back in November last year since then I had a short burst a few weeks ago at buying OO Gauge, I have been in and out of N gauge for many years but after looking at OO gauge again I think it looks very toy like so I got rid of it.

To me N gauge although small still looks more realistic than the larger gauges and I cant see myself modelling anything else  :NGaugersRule:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Caz on October 16, 2012, 11:24:27 AM
Quote from: oldrailbug on October 16, 2012, 10:42:33 AM
I noticed that I started this thread back in November last year since then I had a short burst a few weeks ago at buying OO Gauge, I have been in and out of N gauge for many years but after looking at OO gauge again I think it looks very toy like so I got rid of it.

Think you've got a very valid point there ORB, let alone 00 gauge, whenever I see 0 gauge layouts in magazines etc they (with the odd exception) always look very crude, chunky and unconvincing. 
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Portpatrick on October 16, 2012, 11:57:04 AM
Quote from: whiteswan on October 16, 2012, 11:24:27 AMThink you've got a very valid point there ORB, let alone 00 gauge, whenever I see 0 gauge layouts in magazines etc they (with the odd exception) always look very crude, chunky and unconvincing.

Interesting.  I admit that I could be very tempted by O Guage.  I like its potential magnificence.  And my wife likes it!

The issues include cost and space.  In my modest house I could only do something very modest so I suppose I would not be looking at too mch stock etc  (stop laughing).  Another issue is my hand tremor.  small bits are easier to handle if they are bigger, but mistakes and omisions would be very obvious.  At least in N small details hardly show at exhibition distances - so can often be left off.  And interesting comparison for me was that my Farish Jubilee arrived at the same time as a Union Mills 2P.  Different approaches.  In many ways I prefer the UM approach.  It is robust and can be handled easily.  And it still looks good.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Sprintex on October 16, 2012, 05:40:52 PM
Quote from: Portpatrick on October 16, 2012, 11:57:04 AM
At least in N small details hardly show at exhibition distances - so can often be left off.

Maybe that's it. When you view N gauge it's like you viewing the real thing form a considerable distance, so minor details would be less noticeable. However, looking at 0 gauge (and to a lesser extent 00) is like being much closer to the real thing where you would naturally see a lot more detail, so if it isn't there it registers as less realistic?

Take people for instance, imagine you're walking towards a real person so they get bigger in your field of vision as you get closer: at N gauge distance you would be far enough away from the person to see skin colour and clothing colour, but probably not much else; at 00 size you'd be able to make out some facial details and clothes/footwear styling; at 0 gauge distance you'd be able to make out clear facial expressions, hair styles, and detailed clothing items. Therefore if these details are missing when viewing a model your brain registers it as more toy-like?  ;)


Paul
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: colrich50 on October 16, 2012, 10:03:42 PM
Had a collection of Graham Farish Locos and rolling stock from years ago and so to save money on returning to the hobby stuck with N-gauge,to a degree prefer 00 as you can get more detail in but still enjoy the challenge of modeling in a smaller scale.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Irish Padre on October 16, 2012, 10:11:22 PM
I really think there's something in what you say, Sprintex. I've always found  those large scale layouts strangely lifeless - thinking here of Gauge 1 or LGB layouts that are fully scenic. And I think the key difference is the people. Because the larger the scale, the harder it is to treat model figures as impressionist. Or to put it another way, the bigger they are, the more obvious it is that they're not real!! It's a curious effect, as logic would suggest that the more detail a model has, the more convincingly realistic it is. Personally I find a Union Mills G2 chugging along somehow more entrancing than a huge Gauge 3 set up where you can see the cutlery in the dining car.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Agrippa on October 17, 2012, 11:31:26 AM
Sprintex and Irish Padre have got in a nutshell, it's a matter of perception , as in
the example of the Union Mills loco. If you were observing a real train a few hundred
yards away you wouldn't see every rivet and handrail. For example take a small layout
6' X 3' which would be approximately 1 metre across, ie 500 feet in N gauge, you would
get an impressionistic view of a train moving on the furthest away track. In O gauge
unless you could afford something like Pete Waterman's layout the effect would be less
realistic with signal boxes looking like doll's houses . In very large gauges you would have
to put watches on the crew figures and eartags on farm animal figures!

In connection with this in recent posts elsewhere on the forum there have been
mentions of poor quality control and unreliability on new models from the main
two British RTR suppliers, although their detailing has reached a high standard.
Perhaps if they (unlikely) took the UM approach things might improve and modellers
could do detailing themselves if wanted.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: longbridge on October 17, 2012, 12:46:57 PM
I agree and think a reliable mechanism is way more important than super detail.

My eyesight is not that good that I would be able to see fine detail on an N Gauge model so I would be more than happy to sacrifice detail for reliability, from the many people I know that are involved in this hobby I would say 99% of them agree.

If the fanatics want super detail they should get their tube of Superglue out and stick their own bits and pieces onto their locos till their hearts content  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: busman on October 17, 2012, 01:26:29 PM
I started modelling in N gauge just over a year ago. For the last 10-12 years I've been building locos etc from kits in 0 gauge and had improved my skills with etched brass etc. having tackled some relatively complex locos. However, I thought I might like to try my hand at a diesel - a class 24 to be precise - but when I started to cost the project and added up kit, wheels, motor etc. and reached £600, I decided that this was a step too far. Also, with the increasing tendency for 0 gauge to move into to RTR sphere with locos at £1500-£3000 each and the dreasing number of new kits reaching the market, the time had come to call a halt. So, a Graham Farish class 24 bought on ebay for just £57 started me off. With the chance to run 5 coach trains for a reasonable distance in the same space that a similar train in 0 gauge virtually filled and I was hooked. Now, anybody looking for any 0 gauge stock ?!!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: d-a-n on October 25, 2012, 06:26:13 PM
I wanted a layout which went around my desk. I looked into Z gauge but the availability of everything is poor, the selection is limited and the cost is so high. When I visited my old stomping ground about 2 years ago, I stopped in at The Engine Shed/Guagemaster in Ford, Arundel and discovered Kato track - the seed was sown... After going to The Loco Shed in North Manchester to check sizes of stuff out, I settled on N (although I very nearly walked away with a T gauge set...) I like the compromise on size mixed with the vast amount of modern rolling stock/diesels. I also like all the weathered stuff you can buy. Playing with hand-me-down OO a long time ago gave me an idea of what I wanted from my rolling stock, except this time I could make a clean start with huge, convincing rakes of wagons in a manageable space.
It's also small enough to bring me a little bit of joy every time I pick up my class 47....
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: gorebridge2001 on October 29, 2012, 08:00:41 PM
I think it's been summed up quite nicely by everybody. Modelling railways is about compromise, and N gauge is perfect in almost every way. Fine detail can't be seen so it isn't absolutely necessary, although I must admit to being impressed by the detail the RTR manufacturers have achieved. I recently inspected a Farish Arriva Trains Class 150 with my magnifying glass and was delighted with the clarity of lettering, and astounded to see it was routed to Shrewsbury at one end, and Cardiff at the other!

Then of course many of us want to run trains on a main line, rather than a country branch, and this is another compromise, even in N gauge, but almost impossible in the larger scales unless you're lucky enough to have a room about 30 feet long.

Even a long run may not work out as well as one might expect. A friend of mine decided to build an end to end layout in his garden in OO, controlled from his shed at one end - total disaster, by time the train was halfway down the garden it was impossible to judge its position, so he had to employ a "runner" to tell him where it was, so he'd know when to stop it and make the reverse journey!  :laugh:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: EtchedPixels on October 29, 2012, 10:31:06 PM
Quote from: gorebridge2001 on October 29, 2012, 08:00:41 PM
Even a long run may not work out as well as one might expect. A friend of mine decided to build an end to end layout in his garden in OO, controlled from his shed at one end - total disaster, by time the train was halfway down the garden it was impossible to judge its position, so he had to employ a "runner" to tell him where it was, so he'd know when to stop it and make the reverse journey!  :laugh:

Thats why most G stuff is radio control, and the bigger scale live steam. Does also mean that modelling involves running around after trains and exercise... can't see that catching on
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: sprichasm on October 30, 2012, 11:24:25 AM
 :hmmm:
Almost exactly my parcourse. Though space, in a 2 bedroomed appartment, was in my case a consideration. Since moving to a 4 bedroomed house 12 years ago I still haven't a home for the layout, as the cellar is now filled with spare parts & tools for maintaining a fleet of 5 classic Minis! ::)
I'm glad though that my stock boxes take up less than a quarter of the space a similar amount of OO stock would do! One day soon, when most of the Minis finally leave home, I'll be able to play trains once again. 'Til then I'm just "collecting".
:NGaugersRule: :beers:

Quote from: H on November 23, 2011, 11:47:05 AM
I had O gauge when very young and then OO as a young lad (didn't know better), but when I got back in to model railways (late 1970s) I chose N gauge because it looked and felt more sophisticated, acceptable, desirable and was relatively new and therefore something for the future. Oddly enough nothing to do with space, although that is an undoubted benefit.

H.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: H on October 30, 2012, 03:45:17 PM
Quote from: EtchedPixels on October 29, 2012, 10:31:06 PM

Thats why most G stuff is radio control, and the bigger scale live steam. Does also mean that modelling involves running around after trains and exercise... can't see that catching on


Unless you equip the trains with miniature CCTV cameras with the pics relayed back to the control station. But then you're getting close to simulators.

Or, of course, build the trains big enough so you can get in and drive them. That'd save running around after them. :)

H.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: EtchedPixels on October 30, 2012, 04:25:50 PM
Quote from: H on October 30, 2012, 03:45:17 PM
Or, of course, build the trains big enough so you can get in and drive them. That'd save running around after them. :)

Most of the time

http://www.raib.gov.uk/cms_resources.cfm?file=/070524_R132007_East_Didsbury.pdf (http://www.raib.gov.uk/cms_resources.cfm?file=/070524_R132007_East_Didsbury.pdf)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: sprichasm on October 30, 2012, 04:37:01 PM
I bought a tiny camera that ought to fit inside a suitable N-gauge NPCS vehicle, including a small battery, which relays black and white video signal directly to a TV tuner ... I haven't used it yet though!
Anyone else had experience with this type of thing? I thought it might at least be fun to get an N-gauge driver's eye view of one's layout!
:NGaugersRule:
Quote from: EtchedPixels on October 30, 2012, 04:25:50 PM
Quote from: H on October 30, 2012, 03:45:17 PM
Or, of course, build the trains big enough so you can get in and drive them. That'd save running around after them. :)

Most of the time

http://www.raib.gov.uk/cms_resources.cfm?file=/070524_R132007_East_Didsbury.pdf (http://www.raib.gov.uk/cms_resources.cfm?file=/070524_R132007_East_Didsbury.pdf)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Darryl on October 30, 2012, 06:34:59 PM
Well I have always had an interest in small fine detiled models, so when it came to Model railways it was a natural progression.
Plus N Gauge allows us what most of the other larger gauges don't, to be able to model and run more realistic scenes and trains.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: GerryB on November 09, 2012, 03:28:19 PM
My decision to move from 4 mm to N gauge was based entirely on it offering me the opportunity to run realistic length trains through realistic scenic settings. It allows a more 'impressionist' approach to be taken rather than having to worry about the minute detail as you do in the larger scales.

Gerry.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: westie7 on November 09, 2012, 03:56:31 PM
The sheer amount of kits available which at the time were not available in OO did it for me. Still a wider range in my chosen (Speedlink) period.
Then add the improvements with accurate shaped 37's and 47's for starters and it was a no brainer for me. Still gradually flogging off the OO!

Rgds
Mark
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Michael Shillabeer on November 13, 2012, 08:20:59 AM
I changed to N Gauge as a teenager in 1977 after visiting Pecorama and seeing a long layout built into a hallway.

I had great plans to build a layout around my bedroom and into the loft space next to the room. The layout got as far as half way down one wall. I have one building left from this - a scratchbuilt model of my grandparents house.

Michael
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: scottishlocos on November 17, 2012, 03:25:39 PM
Hi all

I am new to N have swapped from OO because of space but also because of the quality of the modern N locks wagons and buildings Icahn now model trains I didn't have room for in OO and also a few trains where the wagons are not available in OO

Regards

Dave
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Nick_BFC on November 26, 2012, 09:47:01 PM
Purely for space. Didn't fancy a loft or garage based layout so needed to plump for a 4x2 max. Also had OO in the past so I suppose I also fancied a change.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Karhedron on November 27, 2012, 01:34:54 PM
Primarily for space reasons. I modelled modern-image in 00 when I was growing up but my parents had a large loft on which I no longer have a claim.

I always had a soft spot for the GWR so when Dapol released their autocoach and 1400 in N gauge, the rest was history. :)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Trainfish on December 01, 2012, 01:26:06 AM
I bought 2 of the newer Hornby HSTs for a OO layout I was building but soon realised that they would look silly running as either 5 coach sets or entering the next corner after about one second of leaving the previous corner.
I now have 2 Dapol blue/grey HSTs with 4 more on pre-order. I still need loads of Dapol coaches but have plenty of Farish mk3s for now. That's not all I have but I think the original HST was the best loco/train/DMU ever invented and if a layout can't have them running full length then it's not worth having a layout  :P
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: allesclar on December 01, 2012, 07:17:45 PM
Dont know really, for my 7th birthday my dad said to me "Do you want small trains or big trains" ie N or 00 gauge.

I thought the smaller, the more i can have. Stuck with N gauge ever since :)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: kes on December 09, 2012, 02:10:25 PM
I changed to n gauge so I could run longish trains at slow speed inside the house. I have since built 3 small portable layouts, one of which goes with me in the motorhome on holiday! I suppose the vast increase in the visual standard has attracted me back to n gauge. I just wish the build quality of some of the products would match the appearance.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Reptile Smile on February 16, 2013, 08:08:51 PM
Essentially, because my dad does...  I saw his layout, and it really appealed, and I also like the idea that when mine's done, it's something we can enjoy together. 

Also, pragmatically, the space thing - I mean, I have enough room to run an out-and-back type OO layout, but I'd really rather model in N!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Gogs on March 02, 2013, 10:02:31 PM
Just like everyone else, space was the primary reason. Modern houses do not have very big "third" bedrooms but a decent sized layout can be built within a small area, such as the 3rd bedroom. Paradoxically, having been Military Modelling for the past 15 years I found that, working in bigger scales meant I wanted to super detail every tank I made. I have now returned to modelling railways and with the failing of eyesight, I now find it easier to work in a smaller scale, (I know, it still sounds daft to me) where I can leave the superb detailing to the manufacturers. I can enjoy my layout, using RTR rolling stock, and not end up with eye strain or cramp in the hands, caused by applying fine details. Three cheers to the modern model makers who have made my life so much easier.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Lankyman on March 02, 2013, 10:33:15 PM
I wanted N gauge 30 years ago so that I could have realistic length trains and scenery. We bought a detached house so that we could put a layout in the loft but the builder had different ideas about the design of the rafters and then the plumber went and placed all the tanks right in the centre of the roof space, blocking access. It has taken until now to negotiate a share of a spare bedroom so space is now the reason.

Why is it though that all the models I would like to have are only available in 00 gauge?

Ron
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Dave95979 on March 02, 2013, 10:39:28 PM
My missis won't allow the trains in the house so I have the shed
so it is a space issue for me as well
I like the long trains so n for me
Plus when I was a nipper my next door naighber had a n gauge layout I just liked it more than oo scale
But can't tell you why
Just more fiddle putting them Dcc chips in
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: GreatWestern2012 on March 02, 2013, 11:48:53 PM
Like alot of people on the forum, for me it's a necessity of space, however to begin with I did "dabble" (for want of a better word) with OO gauge, however I felt it too "clunky" (again for want of a better word). I wanted to find something that I felt would suit my personal requirements accordingly.

I first discovered N/2mm through my local railway modelling club, and upon witnessing it running was on first sight I became very impressed at the hauling capabilities of the locomotives, being able to pull much greater numbers of freight stock more comfortably than their 4mm counterparts, for example I've seen an N/2mm locomotive haul a full train of at least 50-60 wagons on my club's layout of said scale.

Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on March 03, 2013, 01:08:54 PM
Quote from: Lankyman on March 02, 2013, 10:33:15 PM

Why is it though that all the models I would like to have are only available in 00 gauge?

Ron

We just have to be patient, Ron, and hope the ones we need/want are treated to the shrink machine by the manufacturers :hmmm:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: ReBeginner on March 12, 2013, 06:33:07 PM
Yes space had a say in it, although for N I have more than plenty, of space that is. But, having bought used OO loco on E-bay I realised that N would allow so much more, sweeping curves, embankments and cuttings, scenes and even actual mountains (if I wanted) but the more sensible train length was the one, 8 coaches plus engine, double headers even!
Just now trying to master the detailing though, fat chubby fingers that my eyes struggle to see so glue smudges are not that obvious to me, yet!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: ngaugenewbie on March 13, 2013, 05:50:03 AM
It's cute and teeny, tiny...

Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: scotsoft on March 13, 2013, 07:07:23 AM
Quote from: ReBeginner on March 12, 2013, 06:33:07 PM
Just now trying to master the detailing though, fat chubby fingers that my eyes struggle to see so glue smudges are not that obvious to me, yet!

Just take a few close up photographs and you will soon see the smudges  :doh:

I made a load to go onto a flat car and was quite happy with it till I took some photographs  :o

cheers John.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: ReBeginner on March 13, 2013, 09:11:19 PM
Scotsoft, does this mean I'll have to learn to use a camera, as well as DCC - overload, me thinks! Can't I just ignore the smudges for present, anyway?
Regards
David
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on March 13, 2013, 09:12:50 PM
Just pretend the smudges are on the camera lens :angel: :D
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: deepeg59 on March 14, 2013, 05:58:14 PM
Space was a major factor of course. I also think that the scale can hide either imperfections or lack of detail even when viewed from a not unreasonable distance. I have several Union Mills models which, although they are not as detailed as most of the recent offerings from the major manufacturers, look [to me] just as 'real' in situ and of course perform far better.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: 5982 on March 30, 2013, 09:15:01 PM
N is the biggest I could fit anything worthwhile into 9 feet by 9 inches - and anything smaller is too small for my eyes.
Very tempted by 3mm (I had TT as a kid) but its not a RTR scale.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: dodger112958 on March 30, 2013, 10:47:14 PM
 :NGaugersRule: For me it was the inspiring threads on this forum, I toyed with OO but although it is big and probably the best supplied for everything you might need, well N offers the longer trains and I don't have to worry too much about the tiny details which cannot be seen. Also when I told wifey that my model railway was only 4 feet by 2 feet she was very impressed. Have not told her yet that it is actually just the first module, will cross that bridge when I come to it ;)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: scotsoft on March 30, 2013, 11:13:56 PM
Quote from: dodger112958 on March 30, 2013, 10:47:14 PM
:NGaugersRule: For me it was the inspiring threads on this forum, I toyed with OO but although it is big and probably the best supplied for everything you might need, well N offers the longer trains and I don't have to worry too much about the tiny details which cannot be seen. Also when I told wifey that my model railway was only 4 feet by 2 feet she was very impressed. Have not told her yet that it is actually just the first module, will cross that bridge when I come to it ;)

I thought this was appropriate  :smiley-laughing:  :smiley-laughing:  :smiley-laughing:

cheers John.

Many Rivers to Cross Harry Nilsson (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gxqOFHIkWf8#)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: andy61 on April 08, 2013, 01:16:11 AM
Mainly due to lack of space in the house but you could still
get a good model in a small space
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: apsheehan on April 08, 2013, 11:18:05 AM
As I live in a flat an oo gauge layout just wouldn't fit, my 4*2ft layout fits nicely in my spare room and although it has its restrictions (a door size layout would be perfect) I've fitted a double track oval with plenty of sidings on it!! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: N Scale A4 4468 on April 09, 2013, 10:49:59 AM
I started young with N gauge! When I was 10. I had a OO Eurostar set originally that wasn't getting used much and I decided at the time with my parents to go smaller.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: barnyswain on May 15, 2013, 01:43:26 PM
space, lack of ... live in a flat with a wife and daughters

although N is superb  ;D
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Trev on May 15, 2013, 04:19:54 PM
I've always thought that N gauge looks far more realistic (to me anyway). The attention to detail or sometimes lack of it is less visible in N and so the overall impression is better to the eye.

OO and O have never impressed me at all. Because you can see more detail or lack of it, they seem to look more like big toys.

Harsh?  Maybe but that's just my opinion.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Pertinax on May 16, 2013, 08:27:18 PM
I think the key thing for me is , a better idea of the train in the landscape-real scale , I like OO but N gives a real idea of a train in the real world.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: sean Half-pint works on May 28, 2013, 02:45:36 AM
N for me, was something that started about 5 or 6 years ago, whilst recoveing from a nasty misshap on thw rugby pitch (18 months of hospitals, plaster casts and very limited use of my leg!) and OO is INCREDABLY difficult to work on when you have to ballance everything on a stuck out leg in a cast, so N gauge (at that point a pair of boxfiles!) was just perfect for me, and it kept me busy, and out of my mums hair for more than a few hours, and stopped me taking things appart and putting them back together again just to give me something to do!

Even now, when my leg is plaing up, I can get to N gauge alot easier than the big OO layout, which needs setting up and packing away after working on it!

also I quite fancied a change of period, as I have modeled GWR steam, BR steam and transition, but never a pure diesel/electric setting, so N perfect for that, as I can run long trains in less space, and get alot of nice little detail into the layout to!

PLUS alot of stock is still only availible in Kit or if you scratch build, which is rapidly becoming less and less prominent in OO, and it is very annoying to be asked if the kit that has taken hundreds of hours to build is the latest reliese from Bachmann or Hornby!

Sean
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Agrafarfan on May 28, 2013, 04:06:51 PM
Hi

I started in 00 but I was living in a bedsit so I had to lay it out on the ground which probaly made it unreliable, my cat loved it though mainly the mat. Just didn't have the room to build a table. So I found another model shop ( the main one only did Hornby) and saw smaller scale trains, I first thought that other scales/gauges were more expensive than 00 but was pleasantly surprised they were about the same price.

Also was surprised that n gauge was getting more popular. I brought a Graham Farish catalogue plus a train set and it was like a dream come true, it was like Hornby but in n gauge I could almost get everything from one manufacturer.

So had a table that would suit the trainset it was I think 1.5 foot buy 2 so I brought more track for it. Now I moved to a bigger flat I got a 5'x3 table and getting more into this enjoyable hobby ( helps me relax) and the quality of Farish and Dapol is amazing. So I'm in love with Graham Farish plus this hobby I think I'm gonna stay doing for the long run.

I like dapol as well but Graham Farish is what I wanted, a large range of trains, buildings, track, coaches, and freight. And I got some room now.

Ian
:NGaugersRule:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Pengi on May 28, 2013, 04:20:48 PM
Glad your are enjoying N gauge  :) - what types of trains and buildings do you have?
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Agrafarfan on May 28, 2013, 04:36:35 PM
Hi

I got the junior starter set with the LMS tank ( I think she's a Jinty) a class 37, class 66, class 08 plus an old second hand minitrix tank loco but don't know what type.

I've just built my first Metcalfe station also got scenecraft great central canopy.

I intend to build a farm scene with countryside cause it seem easy to do maybe.
I like era7 plus the modern era. But also want to get the 5 mt Camelot steamer cause it's called Camelot. Gonna get a few cattle trucks for my farm.
Ian
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: jack20 on June 20, 2013, 10:53:35 PM
Its strange but i seem to be "better" at N stuff than 00 very peculiar.
For me 2mm is really satisfying and very pleased with new realeses announced.

Jack.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Bealman on June 21, 2013, 12:15:48 AM
I'm with you on that one, Trev.... I reckon 00 models look like plasticcy toys. N scale models just seem more real to me, especially in landscaped settings. The downside is though, as I'm getting older their small size is becoming a bit of problem for me eyesight-wise.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: 60006 on July 12, 2013, 11:45:10 AM
If I was just starting to model now then I'd probably say the typical reasons:

You can "fit more in" the space you have and N Gauge models have improved a lot recently and I dare say some are better than 00.

But I originally migrated to N Gauge from 00 when I was about 14. And thinking back I have absolutely no idea why. I think I just liked the "look" of the models as you saw them going round layouts at exhibitions. Very rarely would you ever see a full length train hurtling round the track in any other scale.

Whatever the reason originally was though, I'm glad I did choose N Gauge
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Bealman on July 12, 2013, 12:11:13 PM
Good post, 60006. Rarely do you see full length expresses except in N.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: PostModN66 on July 12, 2013, 12:27:42 PM
There is something intrinsic about the size that appeals to me - the benefits of full length trains etc. is just a side-issue!

I can remember the excitement of getting a set for my birthday - the Minitrix starter set with the red-wheeled tank engine; just delightful!  (I rebought it recently from e-bay for nostalgia.)   And my most read magazine article was "Edgeworth" by J.E.Geary, in RM,  which I attempted to emulate with my second layout - never completed.

Cheers    Jon  :)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: johnsom on August 04, 2013, 01:56:04 PM
Try T Gauge - if your eyes and fingers are capable !!! then you will realise how big N Gauge is !!!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Guy on August 04, 2013, 03:09:42 PM
My first real exposure to a train set was when I was about 7 and that was when my dad bought a Minitrix N gauge set for myself and my brother.

We remained moderately interested into our teens but never had a serious layout due to dad moving around.

I then spent 27 years in the Army and didn't really settle until around 6 years ago and apart from buying my 2 boys a OO set or two didn't really come back to the hobby.

I decided I wanted a main hobby on retirement from the Army and finally came back to my child hood passion for trains. Although I do have the space (in theory) for OO, I decided to go for N (due to my childhood memories) and embarked on a 16 x 3 foot DCC layout (which fills up one wall of the room I have taken over as my hobby room).

The layout has been a huge learning experience spread over around 5 years. I now have quite an extensive collection of locos and rolling stock and happily run them on my (as near as damn it) completed layout. Would I do it all again? Absolutely! and am currently planning a new layout (probably to start in the next 18 months or so) having learned so much from the first. Hopefully, it will be developed far more logically and not cause as many trials and tribulations as the last one...

The number one thing I have taken from this experience is that whilst I do like the satisfaction gained from putting a layout together, it is the running of trains that really "floats my boat".  With all of the moves forward by Dapol and Farish over the last 5 years or so, the over riding priority for me is I want locos and rolling stock that work efficiently, that is far more important to me than how many rivets are missing etc.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Trainfish on August 04, 2013, 03:42:03 PM
Quote from: Guy on August 04, 2013, 03:09:42 PM
.......................the over riding priority for me is I want locos and rolling stock that work efficiently, that is far more important to me than how many rivets are missing etc.

I couldn't have put it better myself. I want to run full length trains and the current, and some older stuff, range certainly does that for me. I even have both Western and Eastern HSTs running together but the numbers are so small that unless you study them you wouldn't know.
:NGaugersRule:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Sea Mills on August 04, 2013, 09:42:18 PM
It's interesting that there is a lot of debate in the modelling media about the trade off between detail and cost, yet little about Guy's point about working efficiently.   As a newcomer to the hobby I am happy to experiment with scenery, kits, weathering etc. and know that my efforts are not very good.   I will learn and enjoy doing so.   However, I do want locos that work all of the time and not throw a hissy fit every time a butterfly flaps its wings in Cambodia!

David
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: OwL on August 04, 2013, 10:02:36 PM
Some good points made about reliability. I think the main manufacturers have got the message on this point concerning new models albeit with the odd hiccup nown and again ::)

The appeal to me for N Gauge is running realistic full length trains whilst still being able to include a good level of detail on all models, trains and scenery alike.

Answering the main topic question, my parents bought me a minitrix Flying Scotsman, been hooked ever since!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: FeelixTC on August 05, 2013, 11:04:34 AM
I know I'm showing my age here; but for me it was receiving a 'Lone Star 000' set when I was a nipper.

I was so young, I barely remember it running, but I had bits and pieces lying around my toy boxes in amongst the lego and Matchbox Cars.

It was a green loco - can't quite remember, something between classes 24 & 31??
I also had level crossings, a crane, some US-style boxcars, and telegraph poles.

Some years later, when I was 10 or 12, I 'took up' modelling and N gauge just seemed the natural choice.

...........Of course; at that age I never considered failing eyes and fingers, nor the fact that fishplates would get smaller and smaller every year  ;)

I love 'big things made small' and N gauge seems to me to be the smallest it can practically be and, conveniently, you can have so much more in N.

Mitch

Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: EtchedPixels on August 05, 2013, 11:15:53 AM
They did two diesels - a class 23 Baby Deltic and a class 24
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: FeelixTC on August 05, 2013, 11:41:09 AM
Quote from: EtchedPixels on August 05, 2013, 11:15:53 AM
They did two diesels - a class 23 Baby Deltic and a class 24

24 it was then! Thanks
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Cooper on August 12, 2013, 07:03:44 PM
My son always got stuck at the N gauge layouts when I went to shows, despite him having a OO layout. He says he was amazed at how small it was.

When I took him down the Stevenage and District MRC and they were starting on an N gauge layout he started to help them out. One of the members came to me and said 'he's so keen you really have to do something', and donated me some bits to get us going.

So after a childhood doing OO and 20 years in O, (with a dabble in SM32) we built a bare board trial layout on the remains of the OO board.

However, a trip to the Watford Fine-scale Show and being introduced to the Lofthole Oil Terminal http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?topic=14792.msg147178#msg147178 (http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?topic=14792.msg147178#msg147178)  lead me into starting again and now my son has Horseblock Lane to play with.

Helping out with Lofthole convinced me the mechanisms were reliable and worth modelling with and that a level of believable detail was achievable. I still think that Diesel models look more realistic than Steam, something to do with the believable heft of revolving valve gear and coupling rods.

I've also started modelling in the 'post-modern' era due to my switch to N, which means I can model what I see out there now which makes the research a bit easier!  ;)

I've done very little O gauge modelling this last 18 months.....  :uneasy:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on August 12, 2013, 11:01:54 PM
Great to see that "Horseblock Lane" won the Graham Farish award for the Best Portable Layout at the NGS AGM, Neal.
Very well done :claphappy:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: troutflier on August 22, 2013, 09:02:13 PM
I was bought the n steam set from dapol for my 60th birthday. Turns out it was N gauge, ho! what fun................
Thanks to the members of this forum I am coping, even enjoying, slowly tackling the learning curve. DCC, Electrics,layouts GREAT FUN!!!!! :laugh3:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: steambay on August 30, 2013, 07:25:55 PM
Got lots of T gauge, but not enough detail compared to N gauge
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Dorsetmike on August 30, 2013, 08:02:34 PM
My first  train was Hornby 0 gauge clockwork somewhere around 1938/9 Christmas, with an electric (20VAC) Flying Scotsman the following year Typical Hornby tinplate make a few models and do them in as many different liveries as possible, the "Flying Scotsman" model was a 4-4-2, identical for all except livery were the Lord Nelson, King but can't  recall which was the LMS one though think there was also a French one.

That lasted me through the war years and a bit beyond, then I discovered the attractions of the other gender, end of modelling for quite a few years!

Did try and get 2 sons interested in 00 with not much success in the late 50's.

Father died in '74 having not deen long retired, he "left" me  a Fleischmann 7160 and an early Farish tank - the can motored one. Things progressed fairly rapidly from there, I still have the Fleischmann, but it's wearing a Langley S15 body now, the motor started smoking a couple of months ago, it's now got a new one.

I've had layouts from about 6' x 3' up to 25' x 8' + 17' x 12' L shaped, but always SR or BR(S)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: steambay on August 31, 2013, 10:26:11 AM
Looks a venerable example :beers:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: trkilliman on August 31, 2013, 11:13:13 AM
I had dabbled with N  back in the day (late 70s) when it was Farish and very little else in British outline. When Dapol came on the scene I sensed that things would start to change for the better, and got into N again. What would really liven things up is if another substantial manufacturer came onto the N gauge scene for British outline models.                             I am bemused that with newer houses noticeably smaller than say, Victorian houses, N  gauge sales have not increased more than they have done. Sp much more than 00 in a given space has to be it's strongest attribute.               

Steve,
Cornwall.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: mereman on August 31, 2013, 01:21:53 PM
Another victim  :D

:welcomesign: Steve
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Stuart on September 02, 2013, 02:48:19 PM
 To be honest I am happier with 00 gauge however I just don't have the space to build a decent EMU based layout, so I came to N gauge. A bit of a blow to see how little Southern stock there is in comparison with 00. The forthcoming N class and the  Bulleid coaches made my mind up for me.
Stuart.. ;)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: trkilliman on September 02, 2013, 03:08:55 PM
I overheard a conversation in Kernows shop the other day. Talking about 00 they both said they felt manufacturers are now having to look harder for something to model that will have wide appeal. We may (hopefully) find ourselves in this position in Years to come. The current standard of locos is light years away from what we accepted not that many Years back. This should attract new devotees to N, increased sales and more new models. I still think that an existing large player in 00 will enter N gauge before too long. Nothing to back this up mind you, just my gut feeling. This could be via the acquisition of an existing manufacturer, or through a company already in their portfolio and producing Continental N gauge.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Skids on September 10, 2013, 02:40:33 PM
Spent the weekend at a model train show that I have attended for the last 5 years. Spent a lot of time working on an OO for father in Law. There were a few other scale set ups but there were a few N Gauges.

So I just decided that I would surprise him by doing my own layout and space wise I can easily do an N gauge. Have lots of fun doing it and keep it hidden from him when he is at my house.

Plus after the show I was so impressed at the amount of detail in N gauge that I was hooked.

And as a bonus the wife thinks its a great idea, bonus
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: beestie on September 20, 2013, 08:37:33 AM
same as every on else really , space and i think they look more realistic , i will admit to building german outline in HO with my dad , but i am a convert to the electric mice !

added bonus girls think oo is nerdy , first word out when the see my 14xx CUTE!
i rest my case . :D
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Agrippa on September 20, 2013, 09:18:12 AM
I think the answer is space (The final frontier), the ability to run full length passenger trains in a reasonably sized
layout which can fit into your living space if you don't have a large cellar, loft or shed for a OO layout. Cost does not have much bearing on it, indeed some small Hornby OO locos are cheap as chips, also the range of OO products is greater and kits are easier to build. 

I'm not convinced about the appearance argument as logically this would mean that Z gauge would be more
realistic than N  (excluding the couplers) , and so on down to T gauge !

Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Michael Hendle on September 20, 2013, 11:12:43 AM
Hi :hellosign:
I used to have 00 gauge but since my stroke a couple of years ago I moved into sheltered accomodation,but it is to small for 00,so down sized to a n gauge diorama type model railway,it is a small branch line terminus with a sector plate.
I have 4 loco's 1 Dapol 1400,the new Dapol Pannier Tank,1 Dapol Q1 and just bought a Union Mills Adams 0395.
The later one for nostalger sake, I remember them shunting the coal yard at Hounslow in the 1950's

Mike  :A1Tornado:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on September 20, 2013, 11:18:09 AM
Hi Mike, and welcome to the forum :wave:
It would be great to see some pics of your layout. If you need help with that, our FAQ's has all the answers :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: beestie on September 20, 2013, 12:40:04 PM
again  :welcomesign:Mike , nice selection of stock , withered arm perhaps?
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Caz on September 20, 2013, 05:15:26 PM
Welcome to the friendly forum Mike, use the search option to dig out previous posts on anything you may have not seen and don't forget on here there is no such thing as a silly question, just one you don't currently know the answer to.
:welcomesign:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Michael Hendle on September 20, 2013, 05:36:45 PM
 :hellosign: All,

Many thanks for the warm welcome,at present my layout is only in the track laying stage,it not really based on any particular branch line,due to space limitations the 2 southern 0-6-0's will be the largest loco's I can use,and coaching stock the platform a 0-6-0 and 2 57ft  coaches.

I couldn't find any SR coaches so have got a Collett SK and BCK,and a Dapol Auto Coach to go with the 1400.


Once again :thankyousign: for the warm

Michael :A1Tornado:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: beestie on September 20, 2013, 07:16:33 PM
hi mike , i think your southern 0-6-0's are the farish gp tank . and i think farish are bringing out some southern coaching stock? i maybe wrong .
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Michael Hendle on September 20, 2013, 07:31:27 PM
Hi James,
My Southern  0-6-0nLoco's are a Dapol Q1 and a Union Mills Adams 0395,I'm old enough to remember the Adams 0-6-0 shunting the coal sidings at Hounslow in the early 1950's,the were sheded at Feltham

Mike
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: beestie on September 20, 2013, 07:58:27 PM
Quote from: Michael Hendle on September 20, 2013, 07:31:27 PM
Hi James,
My Southern  0-6-0nLoco's are a Dapol Q1 and a Union Mills Adams 0395,I'm old enough to remember the Adams 0-6-0 shunting the coal sidings at Hounslow in the early 1950's,the were sheded at Feltham

Mike
ah yes you said earlier , :dunce: sorry i had farish on my mind , yes madness comes with n gauge or so i have heard!  :P
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Chris in Prague on September 20, 2013, 08:57:37 PM
I had an 00 trainset when I was a child but there was no room for a proper layout on a baseboard but there was for a N Gauge layout so I had a Minitrix Class 27, Lima and Minitrix coaches, and Minitrix and Peco wagons, a kitbuilt Hymek on an excellent German powered chassis and, finally, an excellent Minitrix Warship, and a Farish GWR Hall  all running on Peco Setrack points and flexi track. (All long since gone, alas. I miss the Warship, in particular.)

30 years later, buying and reading a lot of books on the Withered Arm the idea of a layout based on a town in North Cornwall grew and grew and, with it, the realisation that the standard of the models out there has greatly improved. The domestic planning authorities agreed to a baseboard stored under the double bed and Penmayn was born . . . and the rolling stock acquisition program began.

On the minus side, I have to learn about DCC and electronics (not something that concerned me 30 years ago!).
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: carlmt on September 25, 2013, 10:46:11 PM
Brother and I were given a couple of Hornby 00 sets back in the late 60's as Christmas presents by our Grandfather.  Dad combined them on a board in our bedroom and this sufficed............until we had a family holiday to Germany and Austria in 1972. I was 9 at the time.

Boy oh boy...........what trains!!! What colour!!!! Compared to British Rail, the German and Austrian systems were absolutely enthralling to me (my brother had lost interest a few years before). We were touring in a Bedford motorhome and it was pure heaven to sit in the back as we drove along the Rhein and watch the TEE's gliding past being pulled by enormous (to me!!) 103's and 112's........long, sleek coaches too!!!! We even parked up for the night in Bingen with the cab of the motorhome up against the fence of the railway - I spent almost half the night sat in the cab, watching trains!!!!

When we got back, I asked dad if it was possible to change our 00 Hornby for something that would be like what I had seen on holiday.

Well, in Uxbridge at the time was a small model shop called 'Percy's', and he had a whole cabinet full of second hand Arnold, Minitrix and Fleischmann N - all German outline. I was drooling!!!! This was just what I had seen that summer for real!!! Percy agreed to part-ex all our 00 for a sizeable chunk of this N stock (he wasnt too keen on it - very 'old school' he was...).

Once home, dad purchased a piece of chipboard 5' x 3' - and that became our German outline N scale layout.  This layout was run, worked on, built up and run (very often!!) right up until I left home at 19, whereupon it just sat gathering dust until my parents moved house 8 years later. Unfortunately, circumstances prevented me from taking the layout with me at the time, and in the end the stock was boxed up, the catenary dismantled, the buildings removed and the board thrown away.

Now, I have just turned 50, I have a wonderful wife who is absolutely mad keen on the idea of getting a layout built using all our old rolling stock, and I now have the time, space and resources to do it!!!!!

Why do I model in N?  Because I absolutely LOVE it!!!!!  :)

Carl  :thumbsup: (and Florence - the mad keen wife  :heart2:)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Iano on September 25, 2013, 10:59:59 PM
I haven't read all the posts but isn't one big advantage of n gauge over oo gauge cost? You surely can get more for the same money with n, agree/disagree anybody?
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: scotsoft on September 25, 2013, 11:10:32 PM
Quote from: Iano on September 25, 2013, 10:59:59 PM
I haven't read all the posts but isn't one big advantage of n gauge over oo gauge cost? You surely can get more for the same money with n, agree/disagree anybody?

I have a mate who does OO/ HO and he surprises me when he tells me how much his latest OO/HO acquisition from eBay was.  He has bought locos as cheap as £10 and they are in excellent condition and run very well.  It may well be he has just been lucky, but he has bought quite a few this year at prices I can only dream about in n gauge/ scale  :'(

cheers John.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: trainsdownunder on September 25, 2013, 11:40:30 PM
Quote from: Iano on September 25, 2013, 10:59:59 PM
I haven't read all the posts but isn't one big advantage of n gauge over oo gauge cost? You surely can get more for the same money with n, agree/disagree anybody?

Have to agree with Scotsoft on this one. My US N items seems to be similar in price, if not more expensive than the "bigger" scale overall However I do still manage get the odd bargain.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Iano on September 26, 2013, 11:38:50 AM
ah. I was beginning to suspect that I may have been wrong to assume n gauge trains were less expensive, what about track and scenery (models etc) surely these must be cheaper?
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Agrippa on September 26, 2013, 12:12:17 PM
You pay more and get less, it's that simple.  :D

Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Michael Hendle on September 26, 2013, 04:04:24 PM
 :hellosign:

What I cannot understand is the vast difference in price between Bachmann American models and Bachmann Grafar models,I suppose the American market is far bigger than the British market.

:Class31: Michael Hendle
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: EtchedPixels on September 26, 2013, 05:30:32 PM
Thats a lot of it - same with Japan

The cost per unit of a model is quite low
The cost of the R&D and toolmaking is very high

So much of the cost depends upon volume

Hence also the love of multiple liveries, special edition repaints and so forth. Anything which sells more of the same moulding is good news for the manufacturer.

Alan
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Michael Hendle on October 01, 2013, 11:32:03 AM
 :hellosign:
Hi
Well Grafar have decided where my branch line will be for me,I have just bought the New Grafar Devon General Guy Arab double deck bus,also bought the Valiant Coach as well I can remember them picking up in Hounslow for day out trips.
I  will be some where in Devon

Oh and I have also pre ordered the N class loco and 2 Bullied Coaches

:Class31: Mike
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Thebigshot on October 04, 2013, 07:38:42 PM
Tbh I am not a true N gauge modeller have been a buying the Bachmann collectors club stock as cash allows I am a 00 modeler but am more interested in railways of all gauge's rather than one gauge tbh
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: d-a-n on October 05, 2013, 10:19:38 AM
Quote from: Agrippa on September 26, 2013, 12:12:17 PM
You pay more and get less, it's that simple.  :D

I initially started looking at Z gauge for my office layout and the prices were crippling for something which has a limited selection. I imagine its made like watchmaking and it is nicely detailed as it firmly isn't a toy, but the lack of any hands free shunting and British outline put me off.
I too was surprised at the price discrepancy between OO and N after my initial research but I was determined to have a small railway which could have decent sized rakes on it. A slightly larger desk and voila, I have a N gauge desk layout which has trains I recognise rollingand shunting around it!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: EtchedPixels on October 05, 2013, 11:20:02 AM
Z is an obscure collectors scale. 1970s standard track and wheels, mostly crude models. Some US stuff is far better on the rolling stock side but still overpriced and way inferior to N.

I used to do some Z but gave it up. Now slowly selling it off to collectors.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Big Dave on October 19, 2013, 01:12:44 PM
Space is the main issue. I want my layout to feel like a real railway experience.  I also want my roliing stock large enough to see and convert to DCC and even Sound in the future. N gauge is the only gauge that satisfies my requirements. TT gauge would have been a possibiliy but it requires too much difficulty like kit building etc., for me.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: mr bachmann on October 19, 2013, 04:07:12 PM
not one to bragg about the size of things  :-[ - but for once small is better , you get more in , so infact its bigger  : :D


mr bachmann
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Agrippa on October 19, 2013, 05:10:25 PM
Quote from: mr bachmann on October 19, 2013, 04:07:12 PM
not one to bragg about the size of things  :-[ - but for once small is better , you get more in , so infact its bigger  : :D


mr bachmann

Sounds like the Tardis
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: ParkeNd on October 19, 2013, 11:22:49 PM
Because OO looks daft going anywhere other than in straight lines with curved track visible on both sides of a coach at the same time. N is more natural in a domestic environment.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Agrippa on October 20, 2013, 12:26:20 AM
In the end  it  depends on how much space you  have.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Pengi on October 20, 2013, 05:17:07 AM
Quote from: ParkeNd on October 19, 2013, 11:22:49 PM
Because OO looks daft going anywhere other than in straight lines with curved track visible on both sides of a coach at the same time. N is more natural in a domestic environment.
Very true and the reason I changed to N.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: BigT on October 20, 2013, 10:09:36 AM
For the same reason as everyone else - space. I would struggle to fit a OO layout in my house
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: rhysapthomas on October 20, 2013, 11:09:28 AM
Like most people here the size was the deciding factor not enough space for a larger scale layout actually not enough space for the N gauge layout I would like!

But also is there not a fascination for small beautifully made things generally
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: anaes20 on October 21, 2013, 10:00:02 PM
For me, my love of N scale came about from a family holiday to the USA back in 1986.  Whenever we went to any toystores I would invariably end up looking at the model trains, both HO and N scale and noted how attractive the N scale trains looked, so neat!  The final push came during that holiday while visiting friends in Philadelphia.  There we went to a large toyshop one evening and I was torn between an N scale starter set and an HO one - the N scale set by Life Like featured an 0-6-0 tank, 2 boxcars, a caboose, track, power pack and several detail elements such as a church, a house, trees and road signs.  After deliberating a bit I decided to get the N scale set as the shop was about to close for the night!  I was pleased with my purchase, which set me back US$20 (a princely sum in '86 especially as I lived in the Caribbean at the time) and proudly took it back home and set it up (I got additional track a bit later on).  I was truly hooked after that.  Life Like in fact still do this sort of set today!

I went on to get a Bachmann set from my father for Christmas 2 years later, featuring an F9 diesel electric, then the following year bought more cars (wagons) and scenery elements on another trip to the USA.  I eventually built layouts in 1991 and 1992 - relatively crude they were but enjoyable given that model rail equipment was (and still is) not readily available in the Caribbean.  I stuck with N scale ever since and have taken on UK N scale (gauge) after moving here.  Apart from the old 0-6-0 engine which broke and was replaced twice (the replacements broke too), I still have everything else.  Since 2010 I have again swung towards North American railroads with some newer equipment - and hence my varied interests in N scale and gauge.

Anaes20.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: wikingfan on October 22, 2013, 02:13:17 AM
Same reason as everyone else - space.
I have been around model railways my whole life as my dad introduced it to me. I had layouts as a child (HO - American).

As I got older I got away from the hobby but trips to Germany as an adult got me back into railroading - German railways. I started collecting Marklin wagons & locos, then I wanted to run them around a layout but of course the space I had didn't make much of a layout. So I tore down the marklin layout and explored z scale but that was to small and the product lines limited.

N Gauge for me is the perfect balance. Small size but big on detail.

Quote from: rhysapthomas on October 20, 2013, 11:09:28 AM


But also is there not a fascination for small beautifully made things generally

rhysapthomas I agree completely
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: steve836 on October 31, 2013, 09:13:29 PM
I started with O gauge Hornby then to OO three rail, OO two rail (which is still my favourite as so much is available in RTR , kits and parts for scratch built ) then because of space limitations went to N. When we moved house 2 years ago I had the chance to rethink as the garage could be attached to the house and gave me 18ft X 8ft to play with so I thunk and decided that what I really liked was to watch scale length trains roll by. I am, however, very dissapointed with the performance of N gauge locos from Farish and Dapol. My 8f only manages to haul about 30 wagons, so my coal trains need a 7f from Union Mills as it doesn't look right for a 4f to handle 50+ mineral trains and 8f on pick up! When Oh when will Dapol & Farish learn!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Komata on December 15, 2013, 07:46:12 PM
Why did I choose N?

An interesting question, with, for me, a somewhat involved answer

As with many others in our scale, due to space problems my original intention was to model in N.  However, such was my ignorance of the scale (and the fact that there was both British and US variants of it) my first two locomotives (although ostensibly 'N'- which is how they were 'marketed') were actually .009!!

Not appreciating the subtelties involved, it took a long time (years, in fact)  to realise that .009 and 'N' were not exactly the same.  Disillusioned  by the discovery I then tried HOn30 and TTn3.5, with very unsatisfactory (and expensive) results.  After a 'think' was had and a 'stock-take' undertaken, I discovered that I still had some N-equipment on hand.  At that point, I then 'settled' on the scale as being the one to which I was committed (although, typically) even THAT wasn't initially an easy journey...

Of course, had I known later, what  I didn't know at the start, things would have been sooo much easier.  I believe it's called 'Experience'.

Thanks for asking.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: ParkeNd on December 16, 2013, 12:36:06 AM
My choice of N Gauge was reinforced when I put the free Hornby mag DVD in the Mac last month.

Just watch those OO steamer front pony bogies flick out 45 degrees when entering a bend or a turnout. Even if it is chuffing as it goes it's a real turn-off.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: stevieboy on December 18, 2013, 11:10:42 AM
I can't remember if I've already answered this, but my choice was made because of the following numbers:

Two bed-semi + Class 60 + 27 SPA's + 13 BAA's

Try that in OO without resorting to the loft/shed/garage!!

But seriously, my only wondering is, if space was no object, and ignoring 12" = 1ft scale (within reason) what gauge would you model? (Put's on tin hat) for me, it would probably be OO, not because N is lacking in quality or anything else like that, but for the wider range of models.  I'm hoping that Bachmann keep pushing the Farish range so that I can retract that horrendous statement in a few years time!  If it were to mirror their OO range in 5 years time, i'd be more than happy.

:ban: :NGaugersRule:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: RussellH on December 18, 2013, 11:28:04 AM
Hi Guys

Started in OO in the very early years and just found it too big and clumsy (still do the odd repair for a mate and I find its still too big for me). At age 11 I spotted a trix warship and 3 blue grey coaches in a set. At that point I had never seen N gauge before and was really lucky to get that for xmas. Perfect size - never looked back and still have the set although no longer boxed - still runs beautifully 36 years later.

Regards
Russ
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Chris in Prague on December 18, 2013, 11:38:08 AM
Quote from: RussellH on December 18, 2013, 11:28:04 AM
Hi Guys

Started in OO in the very early years and just found it too big and clumsy (still do the odd repair for a mate and I find its still too big for me). At age 11 I spotted a trix warship and 3 blue grey coaches in a set. At that point I had never seen N gauge before and was really lucky to get that for xmas. Perfect size - never looked back and still have the set although no longer boxed - still runs beautifully 36 years later.

Regards
Russ

Ah, yes! The Minitrix blue Class 42 and Minitrix Blue & Grey Mark 1 carriages, I had those, too, as well as Lima carriages and Minitrix plus Peco wagons. I'm delighted to read that your Minitrix rolling stock is still running after all those years. I have bought a selection of Minitrix carriages, recently, after returning to the hobby after a 30 years' break. Although I have Graham Farish Class 42's, I'm still tempted to buy a Minitrix blue one as a replacement for the one which I once had. German engineering at its best! (I had a Minitrix Blue Class 27, too.)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: talisman56 on December 26, 2013, 03:48:35 PM
Started back in Christmas 1971 when I was 15, with a Lima train set containing a Class 86 and a couple of Mark 1 coaches. A small layout followed, and eventually a bit more stock, including Minitrix 9F, 2MT 2-6-0 and 2-6-2T, Grafar 0-6-0PT steam locos, more Mark 1s and lots of Peco wagons.

At some point the Lima stuff was traded in, probably for some streamline trackwork for a larger, more permanent layout in the spare room when I finally 'flew the nest' to my own abode. The usual situation then ensued, girlfriend, marriage and then family and the layout was dismantled and the stock boxed up and put into storage.

About 15 months ago, my body decided to tell me it wouldn't take any more winters on the draughty terraces supporting my local non-league football team and the loft needed clearing out so that we could have cavity wall insulation and replacement loft lining installed. The stored box of rolling stock, along with a big bag full of used trackwork was discovered and put aside for future investigation.

Negotiations with the domestic authorities granted access to the dining table when it wasn't being used for its official purpose and a 60" x 39" baseboard knocked up from three sections of the original layout baseboards unearthed from the depths of the garage. The stock box was sorted out and all the stock which did not meet the criteria for the new modelling era (BR(SR) 60s) put aside for trade-in. This included a large quantity of Peco PO wagons, old Minitrix maroon Mark 1s and a couple of Farish ex-LMR locos.

The major disadvantage of a solid large baseboard quickly became apparent when a minor accident while removing it from the dining room to the garage for storage wiped out a large swathe of recently-laid track and it looked like I was back to square 1.

The (happy) coincidence of a requirement for a major clear-out in the garage and an ex-member of the MRC I had joined wanting to dispose of his 'N' gauge portable layout resulted in the current situation of a layout in the garage and domestic harmony in the house, although the dining table is the modelling workbench, suitably protected, of course. The layout board was cut down to a size able to take a circuit of Setrack with a couple of loops, this is now my test track.

Coming soon: Layout thread for "Dunestone" (the layout); and "talisman's Workbench" thread covering the completion of the unfinished kits I found in the attic stock box, and subsequent purchases.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Bristolmar on December 30, 2013, 03:50:26 PM
In 1973 my mother moved my bro and myself to her native Switzerland. Flurlingen, about 3k up from Der Rheinfall, Neuhausen. As kids we spent every summer in Buesingen am Hochrhein, other side of the river, a german enclave (allegedly) and Schaffhausen, the prettiest town in the world.

Took my Hornby HO layout with me-Sir Winston Churchill loco.

Spent half my time in the local shops DROOLING over all the Fleischmann N Gauge displays


SIMPLES  (funny noise)


Martin

Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Mr.WJCA on January 06, 2014, 01:40:53 PM
So why did I choose for N Gauge.

When I was younger around the age 10 My dad had bought and build a railway track based on N (Minitrix), his choice was this because of the space (smaller was not available)
A long time after this I never touched the trains and they disappeared (seriously we don’t know anymore, during the move from one house to another most of it disappeared)

So in 2005 I got myself a nice amount of money and somehow I felt like going for model trains on my own (well with the support of my girlfriend (now wife)) again I decided for N because of space  and I started to buy (way to quick I know) and now after moving, getting married, getting a son and after a very big house renovation (forced not wanted) I finally managed to clear up the attic and decided to stay on N for the space and also availability and details of the material

:NGaugersRule:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: zuccah98 on January 08, 2014, 02:15:07 PM
The space and its much cheaper to than the American HO gauge.  Also it is possible to vast amounts of long runs and scenery in a small space. :NGaugersRule:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: GWR-Kris on January 08, 2014, 03:03:23 PM
My first set-up was in N Gauge, didnt get far with it, done baseboard and track and tunnel that was it. My dad had OO gauge so in the end most locos i bought was in OO.

When I moved out my parents I wanted to restart my hobby, but all my stock was OO gauge at that point. My brother was using N Gauge, and took me a while to decide what scale. Basically sat down and decided what i wanted to get from my layout, and decided on N gauge as i wanted to run full length trains and I can fit more detail into a layout in N.

So it just developed from there, my current layout is only 3' x 6' but Im having the part the garge and utility room combined into a room. So at some point next year will be working on a layout 7' 16' with operators well.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: redstar on January 16, 2014, 08:59:10 PM
The wife dictates it......
Originally wanted 00, however I seem to love the look and 'feel' of N stuff.
I'm still to start my layout, still to finalise plans, but know my era!

Glad I chose the baby brother to the 'standard' model... Love it!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Cutter on February 07, 2014, 11:47:44 PM
Because I haven't the space for anything bigger and cañt see anything smaller!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Alfred on February 13, 2014, 01:34:40 PM
Why N gauge.

Well, many moons ago when I was in short trousers,  :-[ my parents gave me a Christmas present of basic set of a Lone Star Locos push-a-long.  Spent many happy hours on the dining table, laying out, putting away, saving and spending pocket money on building it up.  A few years later, another Christmas present with an upgrade to the Lone Star Treble-O-Lectric.  All perfect for a small house with two brothers and a sister all needing their space. All this came to a halt in teenage years when other interests took over,  ::) as they do. Everything was boxed up and shoved in the loft. Unfortunately all of this was ‘lost’ when my parents moved house when I was still single and working away from home.  Still upset about that.  :scowl:

Because of my childhood memories, I chose N gauge when my own kids were introduced to the fun ‘train sets’ which never really grew into railway modelling, just a layout on a board, one for my son and naturally one for me.  :laugh: These also eventually got stored in the loft a long time ago.

Interest only just re-kindled as mentioned in my intro on the welcome page, the really superb models now available in N gauge and of course the compactness for a decent layout.

Whether I’ll really develop skills to do some decent modelling, time will tell.  There’s certainly loads of inspiration on the forum here.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: scottmitchell74 on February 16, 2014, 08:56:40 PM
As a kid I always had O-27 under the Christmas Tree. It got more and more involved with a village and such. Now, I still have a nice-ish Lionel C&O 4-6-4 Set that I bought and I still put the village up every year...howevah...

I 100% agree with what everyone says about how N Gauge looks...it just looks right. An uncle of mine had a N Gauge Christmas Tree set when I was a kid and I was always fascinated with it.

N Gauge just looks "right".  :NGaugersRule:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Bealman on February 17, 2014, 12:41:39 AM
I know I've mentioned this before, but to me the N gauge stuff looks more 'real' - especially the new models. The 00 stuff to me looks like chunky plastic toys in comparison, no matter how detailed the models are.

Even though my eyesight is deteriorating, I'll stick with N for the very reason above (plus I have a lot of it).

If I was to scale up, I think I'd go to 0, expensive as it is.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Agrippa on February 17, 2014, 01:14:58 AM
Space, end of story.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on February 17, 2014, 11:08:11 AM
Quote from: Agrippa on February 17, 2014, 01:14:58 AM
Space, end of story.

The final frontier, then :-X
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Agrippa on February 17, 2014, 11:13:17 AM
It's railway modelling Jim, but not as we know it.......dada da da da da da  :D
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Bealman on February 17, 2014, 10:39:21 PM
 :laughabovepost: :laughabovepost: :laughabovepost:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: mark37/4 on March 02, 2014, 04:21:17 PM
I started in 2010 when a trip to a model shop with my aunt for presents for christmas ended up with the purchese of the recently released Merseyside express when i pointed ity out, then bought the peco track starter pack & some extra stock after christmas & been doing it sinced & had two failed layouts & my current layout,  but only have a N gauge layout as its surprisng what you can fit in a small space

Lately I dont buy much N gauge stock now as Im concentrating on a larger EM layout for this years show of Seahouses, but always nice to have a small layout to play with

Mark
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: D1042 Western Princess on March 09, 2014, 10:41:14 AM
Like most I model in N because I adore 12 coach trains travelling at high speed through endless scenery, just as in real life (at least back in the 1970s) and you just can't reproduce that in the average home in OO. So I turned to N, then built (am building) a branch line where 8 coaches is about the longest, ideally no more than 7  :confused2:, and speeds restricted by being a terminus! :hmmm:
Never mind, I would require a room nearly 50 feet by 14 to do the same thing in OO so I'm still happy! ;)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Zakalwe on April 08, 2014, 07:15:55 PM
close to full length modern image freight trains and completely realistic length passenger trains

and the trains in scenery flowing past stuff

to me, OO always looks more like  a toy as in n gauge you get to see the landscape around the layout not just train a bit of a building and then the wall.. n gauge is like looking from a distance
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: fabpal32 on April 28, 2014, 11:10:37 PM
lack of space as the better half wont let me have the spare bedroom so im in the shed most nights :claphappy:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: longbridge on April 29, 2014, 07:33:08 AM
I have been building N gauge layouts for years but decided to trade all of my equipment in on HO scale models, I am at an advanced stage with my HO layout and hope to start work on a new British N Gauge layout in a3 weeks time.

I guess what I am trying to say is I have experienced the dark side and have once again seen the light, IMO N gauge looks the most realistic of the popular gauges, that is what attracted me to it in the first place and its nice to be on the way back.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Bealman on April 29, 2014, 08:22:38 AM
Quote from: fabpal32 on April 28, 2014, 11:10:37 PM
lack of space as the better half wont let me have the spare bedroom so im in the shed most nights :claphappy:
Haha you and me both but at least you have a shed. Better than the garage, I reckon.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: longbridge on April 29, 2014, 08:26:32 AM
Quote from: Bealman on April 29, 2014, 08:22:38 AM
Quote from: fabpal32 on April 28, 2014, 11:10:37 PM
lack of space as the better half wont let me have the spare bedroom so im in the shed most nights :claphappy:
Haha you and me both but at least you have a shed. Better than the garage, I reckon.

There must be a lot of shed dwellers out there, I love having my layout in the shed especially when SWMBO is feeling a little hormonal  :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Bealman on April 29, 2014, 08:27:52 AM
No comment from me :-X
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: daveg on April 29, 2014, 12:27:35 PM
Quote from: Bealman on April 29, 2014, 08:27:52 AM
No comment from me :-X

It's OK George, we wouldn't tell anyone; honest!  :laughabovepost:

Dave G
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Stuart on May 11, 2014, 03:16:11 PM
Initially space, however I am finding N is a bit too delicate, and my fingers are just unable to make the jump from 00 gauge. So I am back into the larger stuff.
What made my mind up is the Dapol 33011 breaking down for the second time, with the same "loose front driver" problem as before. Nothing but praise for my CEPs but its a big thumbs down for Dapol.
Recent buys are a Thumper, MLV, 2Bil, and an N class all 00 gauge. I will have to live with the limited space. :sorrysign: But back to 00 for me.

Stuart. ;)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on May 11, 2014, 04:51:10 PM
Great shame, Stuart, but don't let it stop you joining us here :no:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: johnsom on May 12, 2014, 02:32:57 PM
I did try 'Z' gauge for a while - limited Loco's - track - poor running reliability etc - thought it would save space - but after trying 'Z' found out that space saving not much over 'N' gauge which has everything to offer.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: scotrail on June 23, 2014, 07:29:40 PM
space limitations
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Northman on June 23, 2014, 07:43:29 PM
Firstly it takes up one quarter of the area of OO - you can get a hell of a lot of ground even on 4 x 3 feet.

Secondly it may at first seem small and fiddly but if you go up a scale the detail is also fiddly and easier to see faults :)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: marco neri on June 23, 2014, 07:56:30 PM
Quote from: Roberto on June 23, 2014, 07:43:29 PM
Firstly it takes up one quarter of the area of OO - you can get a hell of a lot of ground even on 4 x 3 feet.

Secondly it may at first seem small and fiddly but if you go up a scale the detail is also fiddly and easier to see faults :)

...for me.....the same!...
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: scotrail on June 23, 2014, 08:07:32 PM
Space constraunts was my original reason but since I have made the change all the bigger scales now just seen far too big and  'wrong'
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Ditape on August 07, 2014, 02:16:37 AM
After trying t-gauge and z and not finding either very satisfying and having modeled in n before in a small flat it was the obvious answer, having tried OO in the space I had and not getting the interest as it was a very simple layout. :NGaugersRule:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: UPINSMOKE on August 13, 2014, 05:10:36 AM
I first started with N gauge after buying a job lot in the collectors shop I ran some 12 years ago. Had never seen it before so did not know what to pay for it at the time, so just pluck a figure out my head and don e the deal. Later to find out that what I had bought was well below the s/h asking price at the time. I eventually decided to keep it as I liked it so much. I kept on buying as and when I could to add to the collection. Some 4 years later I decided to attempt to start a layout with what I had accumulated over that time.

I spent about 6 months on the project, but got disinterested in it. I loved running the trains but did not get the time I needed to sort the layout out. So sold the lot. I really do regret doing that as looking at today's prices it would be worth a mint compared to what I paid for it. :censored:

I now have the bug again but not the money I once did so it a small scale setup for me, and this time I plan to finish it. :) :ngauge:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: richardatme on August 20, 2014, 07:08:12 AM
As with most people on here Space and Rented flatlet.
I do not want to drill holes in the wall to fit a swing up board nor do I have the free space to fit one. I could suspend one from the exposed wooden ceiling joists, but again the restriction of space would make it hard to get round the layout.
While the increased range of models is a temptation. I'm going for n gauge
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: railsquid on August 22, 2014, 04:12:40 PM
Space... I live in Japan and while the space issue is not as bad as it sounds (I saw some statistics recently that the average new build size in the UK is smaller than in Japan) unless you're out in the countryside, having a garden shed or even a loft is pretty much out of the question. It's also the dominant gauge in Japan and there's a lot of good quality stuff available - my previous impression of N-gauge (this is from like 25 years ago mind) is that it looked crude compared to OO/HO. However I'm blown away by the fact that I can just lay out some Kato track on a flat surface without securing it in any way and run these beautiful little trains round and round, even over multiple points, without the track shifting or them derailing. They're also pretty good value for money.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Mirrlees on August 22, 2014, 07:48:12 PM
I was originally modelling in 00, the same as my Father.  I had an industrial accident in 2002 and has my injury worsened over the years I eventually realised that I wouldn't be living a house where I could do 4mm, so just over 7 years ago I switched to N and I've never looked back.

I really like the fact that I can have scale length trains without needing a hanger!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: nomad on September 21, 2014, 07:07:51 PM
My interest in model railways began with 00 like i guess with many others of you. My switch to n gauge was born out of the combination of two factors....


1. Being fascinated with various exhibition based n gauge layouts appearing in the Model Press, (Castle Cary & Acton Mainline being some of the early ones) and how much they looked like sections of real railway due to the achievable scale distances and scale length trains.

2. The big idea that i've had in my head for twenty years will only ever be workable using n gauge.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Mr PJ on October 14, 2014, 07:10:32 PM
 At the age of 6 I got an "OO" (sorry for the bad language on forum...) trainset from my grandparents after much begging for a train-set, though I was disappointed I didn't get a diesel.
Eventually this expanded, but I think I went to an exhibition, or saw in a shop display an "n" gauge layout, I remember it had a small branch terminal and oval of track (probably double track) and a Met Cam DMU amongst other things. The small scale fascinated me as a child, and I wondered how they fitted the motors into the trains in such small models.

I eventually built a layout about 20 years ago, about 6 x 4, but got frustrated with the poor detail of some models and in particular the problems with couplings, the inability to easily couple and uncouple and wagons coming adrift, so gave up modelling, although I did want to have a small N gauge layout still.

Then the advent of DCC sound re-ignited my interest in modelling and I started to buy "OO" scale stuff again, with plans for a Scottish region model based on the Aberdeen to Inverness route. I agree that "OO" models can seem toy like and my attention was drawn to some of the fantastic N gauge models that were coming out like the Dapol 26. Compare that with my old Minitrix 27! A different world really.

Hence I decided to start building a small N gauge layout (turned out to be about 5 x 3) with my old track and point motors etc.

To cut a long story short, I had a dabble with DCC sound in N, and also the new Dapol magnetic couplings. Suddenly - no need for "OO" as I can build a more realistic scenic layout with sweeping curves in 2mm scale, and still have loco's and stock that can do everything that their 4mm counterparts can do, albeit with a bit of effort - although it is satisfying to have something very different. And I guess that fitting all this gubbins into such small loco's was born out of my fascination with "how do they make such small trains work?" as a child.

All they "toys" (OO loco's) were either sold off, or given to my nephew to go on an "OO" model I have built for him...

Paul


Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: shandy on January 01, 2015, 05:39:00 PM
Had a "OO" gauge train set as a child, but looking back I think it really belonged to my father and uncle :worried:

Started in n-gauge about 25 years ago just after we bought our first house, I went for n mainly because of space limitations and the desire to have a layout in the landscape rather than just the railway. Having said that the first layout was just 4' x 3'.

We're in house #4 now and I have requisitioned the smallest bedroom which has a continuous run double track mainline and a branch off it that goes around 3 of the 4 walls. I stuck with n because the models are getting better and better and still like the fact that I can build a lot into a small space - I'd have had to requisition the living room or gone into the loft to build the equivalent layout in OO.

What originally started as a GWR 1930's theme/collection has now grown to include LMS and LNER steamers, then I made the mistake of buying DP1 a couple of years back and that has led to a BR green diesel fleet... Oh well it's only money.

I dabble a bit in O gauge - and 7mm narrow too, mainly to build the locos but I've got nothing to run them on, Mrs H will not entertain a layout in the lounge or the loss of another bedroom. Fortunately, a good mate of mine provides "running rights" on his 7mm narrow gauge layout and he's about to extend it with some mixed gauge and standard 7mm track which will give me an excuse to build my 7mm Connoisseur J79 which is sat in my kit stash

http://www.jimmcgeown.com/Loco%20Kit%20Pages/J79%20Class%20LNER.html (http://www.jimmcgeown.com/Loco%20Kit%20Pages/J79%20Class%20LNER.html)


Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: acko22 on January 03, 2015, 06:15:48 PM
I had a small amount of OO gauge items from when I was younger, and was tempted when I bought my house and had the room for OO to go that way, but well I got lucky on an N gauge layout and it had a lot of plus points for me.

I could achieve more running wise in N gauge with the space available, make it more technical with regards the running which makes it more fun for me and finally OO while this doesn't cover the complete spectrum there seems to be a leaning towards the toy approach on some models that would be the era I am looking at which isn't the case in N gauge.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Agrippa on January 03, 2015, 08:16:31 PM
Just space
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Trainfish on January 04, 2015, 10:35:37 AM
You're thinking Star Trek/Wars again aren't you Agrippa?
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Agrippa on January 04, 2015, 11:29:42 AM
N Gauge warp drive Mr Sulu and set course for planet Dapol !
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on January 04, 2015, 11:52:32 AM
Quote from: Agrippa on January 04, 2015, 11:29:42 AM
N Gauge warp drive Mr Sulu and set course for planet Dapol !

Planet Dapol, of course, exists in a time space continuum which renders useless any information regarding timelines and causes inhabitants to age prematurely whilst waiting for products/services to be completed.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: austinbob on January 04, 2015, 11:55:47 AM
Quote from: newportnobby on January 04, 2015, 11:52:32 AM
Quote from: Agrippa on January 04, 2015, 11:29:42 AM
N Gauge warp drive Mr Sulu and set course for planet Dapol !

Planet Dapol, of course, exists in a time space continuum which renders useless any information regarding timelines and causes inhabitants to age prematurely whilst waiting for products/services to be completed.
Perhaps Planet Dapol use warp drives from an unreliable supplier with poor quality control then?
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on January 04, 2015, 12:00:27 PM
Quote from: austinbob on January 04, 2015, 11:55:47 AM
Quote from: newportnobby on January 04, 2015, 11:52:32 AM
Quote from: Agrippa on January 04, 2015, 11:29:42 AM
N Gauge warp drive Mr Sulu and set course for planet Dapol !

Planet Dapol, of course, exists in a time space continuum which renders useless any information regarding timelines and causes inhabitants to age prematurely whilst waiting for products/services to be completed.
Perhaps Planet Dapol use warp drives from an unreliable supplier with poor quality control then?

Rumours of a warped drive have been strenuously denied by a world spokesperson.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: ASFC on January 06, 2015, 10:02:30 PM
I had a 'OO' Clockwork Thomas set as a young child-but lost interest in it for lego..... :uneasy:

When I started going to my secondary school my interest was rekindled (coupled with sudden easy access to the internet!) and at one point was hooked on N Gauge-but as this was the Early days of the Bachmann shift of Farish to China there wasn't enough available to keep me going and 'OO' (electric this time) was purchased.

About 2 years later I had lost interest due to lack of space and I traded the lot in at the local model shop for a new BachFar RES 47 Trainset. The rest as they say is history. :ngauge:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: cornish yorkie on January 17, 2015, 12:05:50 AM
First saw Japanese N Gauge a few years ago and love the detail and how good the long trains look. Purchased allsorts of N and just need a layout now to do them justice.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Cookiedude13 on February 21, 2015, 09:51:38 AM
First had n gauge as a little boy which my parents got me. Over the last 25 years though I've built up such a large collection it's become rather pointless selling it and starting again fully in a new gauge. That said I love the detail and quality available in N now and although I've dabbled in OO and even O over the years I always fall back into N.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Webbo on February 23, 2015, 07:30:18 AM
Partly because my wife would not let me have a G gauge layout round the garden and partly because N gauge allows you to spend more money per square area of layout than any other scale (except for Z scale).

All seriousness aside, N scale has always seemed to me the natural modelling scale during my adult life. Having said this, I also run a G gauge circuit with a 4-6-0 steamer to satisfy my craving for looking at valve gear motion as well as an OO/HO circuit on which I run some old Trix trains from my youth as well as a sound-equipped Flying Scotsman and a passenger train, the Canadian by Rapido (also sound), which is gorgeous. All scales are great, but N provides the best opportunities for scenery, long trains etc.

Ian
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: norfolkguy83 on March 02, 2015, 03:00:16 PM
I have oo gauge but after moving space limited I moved to N gauge.. Actually Im loving it..
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Thorpe Parva on March 02, 2015, 04:09:16 PM
Initially due to a reduction in available space but having made the change I can't see that I would ever return to OO. N gauge requires less baseboard construction...my current layout is built on a Wickes flush door supported by 2 Wickes Trestles. If I ever have more space available then I will stick with N gauge so that I can run longer trains. Having decided to change scale I joined the NGS which was a very good decision & one that I would recommend to others if not already a Member.
In an ideal world I believe that the best modelling scale would be 1:100 but I know that this will never happen for all the obvious reasons.
David
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: talisman56 on March 02, 2015, 04:18:14 PM
Quote from: Thorpe Parva on March 02, 2015, 04:09:16 PM

In an ideal world I believe that the best modelling scale would be 1:100 but I know that this will never happen for all the obvious reasons.
David

British 3mm scale (aka TT) is 1:101.6 so its within a gnats crotchet of 1:100 - only issue is very little RTR support...
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Komata on March 02, 2015, 04:59:25 PM
Talisman

Re: 'British 3mm scale (aka TT) is 1:101.6 so its within a gnats crotchet of 1:100 - only issue is very little RTR support...'

Agreed, but in New Zealand, it is used to portray the local national (NG) railway (3ft 6 in gauge) and although technically it is TTn31/2 is known locally as NZ120.  It has quite a (growing) following, to the extent that it is now an officially recognised scale , and has increasing support from local cottage industries.  It's a very viable 'alternative' for those who want to model 'local' but have neither the space or ability to work in the other two predominant scales (9 mm: 1 ft, and Sn 31/2).

Thought you might like to know...
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: R Marshall on March 11, 2015, 01:05:03 PM
Having downsized from our 4 bed house to a 2 bed bungalow and sold all my OO models in preparation, I'd realised how much N Gauge availability of locos and rolling stock had come on from the 70s, when I'd last looked at it seriously.

The Farish B1 and 3MT were deciding factors - I still miss my Bachmann Thompson carriages - I had 2 rakes of them - but otherwise I'm delighted with what I've been able to get (especially a D20 and J26s from Union Mills).

So space (both for layout - flowing track for a "trainspotter's view" - and storage of stock and materials, etc) and available range were the key deciders.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: carpy on March 15, 2015, 08:49:14 AM
back in the 60s i passed a model shop which had a what i know to be an n gauge  small layout in the window . this set me thinking as i had just built 2 coffee tables and thought the next one i build i will build it with a plate glass top with a board underneath and put a small layout of scenery and a train going round  . this never happend as a house move meant more important things to do.  the whole idea got forgotten.   then about 5 years ago whilst having an occasional drink with an old work mate he told me  that he had gone with someone to a toy and train fair and bought some n gauge track an rolling stock and was quite enjoying experimenting with it.this now rekindled my old idea. so knowing nothing at all about the real railways nor model railways as when i grew up in the 40s and 50s all i had was a clockwork set  so i purchased a few magazines and went to the nearest advertised shop  my original coffee table idea . his immediate answer was it would be far too small and had little scope so think bigger about 5 by 3 foot.this i took in and left about 500 pounds poorer , and now a few thousand pounds poor ,but enjoying every minute .i am now near to completion of my first layout of modern uk diesel also planning the next one which will be prewar uk steam. so now you know.   yours carpy
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Basinga on May 15, 2015, 02:41:41 PM
I didn't choose N Gauge. N Gauge chose me...

Or more accurately, my dad has been a member of the 2mm scale association since before I can remember, so N is simply the scale I grew up with. It just makes more sense, it gives you more room and longer trains to play with than the larger scales.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Biggy on May 18, 2015, 05:53:32 PM
I also find that I get more in the space available. Also I think OO can look toy trainy unless a lot of detail is added to rolling stock and scenics.
Mind you I'm sure N gauge was bigger when I was 17  :confused2: I sometimes think it would all be easier in the larger scale.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: StormyOutlook on May 19, 2015, 10:47:31 AM
As a child I had a OO layout and still have all the bits in my loft, in his retirement my Grandfather purchased a Fleischmann N gauge set in the early 1980s, his n gauge bits were passed on to me.  Fast forward to 2012 and a small circle of track was placed on the dining room table, given the limited space I have in my fairly modern house, N gauge is ideal as it's amazing what can modeled in such a small space. 
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: LNER1949 on May 20, 2015, 07:27:06 PM
When OOO Lone Star first came out ! Push along on metal tracks, then electrics rubber bands ! Then the Arnold models came along, then the wonderful Peco loco, which I still have running today ! never really looked back and the choisees now are enormous, compaired with today than what we had back in the early 60s ! I still enjoy the gauge evern today.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Zimonski on May 24, 2015, 08:20:58 AM
Originally, after seeing an N gauge model of Exeter station in Railway Modeller magazine, I wanted to run longer trains on sweeping curves but back in the 1980's I had no idea about split cogs and replacing them and just how badly damp would affect baseboards in a shed :( so my dream ground to a halt. My interest was re-kindled when I learnt about replacing split cogs and started experimenting with shelf layouts!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on May 24, 2015, 09:55:12 AM
Hi Zimonski, and welcome to the forum :wave:
I hope you enjoy your stay with us.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: D1042 Western Princess on May 24, 2015, 10:04:08 AM
 :wave: Hello and welcome. There is a section devoted to new members and it might be advantageous to you to leave a message there where everyone can see it and welcome you properly.
Meanwhile, it's nice to have you with us.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Bealman on May 24, 2015, 10:13:16 AM
G'day from Australia, Zimonski, and welcome to the NGF!  :thumbsup:

As suggested above, let's here more about your plans in the welcome section!  :beers:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Marcus Amison on May 25, 2015, 07:54:27 AM
I have always had an Interest with model railways but never actually got involved in the hobby. Over the past few months I have been visiting model railway exhibitions and although both 00 and N layouts were on display, it was always the N gauge displays that grabbed my attention, nothing to do with space but simply that N had the greater fascination for me. I now have a 8x4 currently under construction.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: G_N_E_R on May 25, 2015, 12:25:46 PM
To create a fictitious town the ECML and to be able to run full length trains (bar the eurostar) in the space limit. Still have some 00 gauge models but am slowly selling them to fund further N Gauge.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Sprintex on May 25, 2015, 01:11:01 PM
Quote from: G_N_E_R on May 25, 2015, 12:25:46 PM
To create a fictitious town the ECML and to be able to run full length trains in the space limit.

Snap!!  :D


Paul
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Caz on May 26, 2015, 05:58:41 PM
Welcome to the friendly forum Zimonski great to have you join us, ECML not my thing despite growing up along side it but looking forward to seeing it develope
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Moores-ee on May 27, 2015, 09:58:39 PM
Like a lot of people; space.  But now I just prefer the smaller trains.  Even if I had the space I'd still go for N.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Jonner on May 27, 2015, 11:12:54 PM
By the late 70's as a secondary school pupil I'd been toying with 00 gauge for good few years until the day I went to visit a mate of mine who was keen to show me an N gauge Lima Class 31 and two Mk1 blue/grey coaches running up and down a few lengths of Peco flexi track.
Needless to say the rest is history.     
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Matt1974 on May 27, 2015, 11:24:51 PM
As a 12-13 year old, I remember struggling with OO gauge because of a lack of space (My mother trashed it because of the mess). I also remember seeing N gauge locos in a cabinet in my local shop in Frizinghall and thinking if only I..... 25 years later, and having thought about why I like railways so much for this time, and not coming up with a good answer, I started again with my two young boys. This time with the right scale. I think space is the key and this scale helps to create a small world of nostalgia. :ngauge:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Mango1 on June 23, 2015, 08:45:01 PM
N guage continues  to expand and now has a good range of quality locos and stock etc.-a pleasure to model with. :NGaugersRule:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: D1042 Western Princess on June 23, 2015, 09:24:14 PM
Greetings Mango 1 and welcome to the NGF  :wave:. We hope to hear more from you in time with many more posts.
Don't worry, none of us bite!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on June 23, 2015, 09:36:05 PM
Hi Mango1, and welcome to the forum :wave:
Great to have you aboard and I look forward to hearing more about your plans in N gauge.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: josh_will on June 23, 2015, 10:36:07 PM
Like so many I started out with the hornby trainset, but this was a complete pain to set up on what seemed like a gigantic 6'x4' board. My uncle, always full of grand ideas but never making them a reality, had gone through Freezers book for small plans and halved every measurement for N gauge (of course this wouldnt work in reality due to N gauge minimum radii being proportionately larger than OO's etc. etc.) but i was convinced to try N due to the space saving potential. A couple of Christmases later I'd got my farish set and it went from there.

I have to say that there's just something very endearing about a tiny little engine whizzing round a circuit of track pulling its little train. Especially if its the old Poole made farish diesels which make a massive racket. I know thats quite childlike and maybe disrespectful to many serious N gaugers, but for me its one of the main attractions of the scale.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: carpy on June 24, 2015, 07:00:57 AM
space being the deciding factor.  i researched z gauge but not of use ,because i wanted an early uk steam layout.  not that i travelled on them when younger in  the 50 s and 60s . i only saw one on the odd occassion whilst cycling arround.  so it had to be wonderfull n gauge.i have thoroughly enjoyed myself over the last 4 years learning from scratch all the skills involved in planning building . i wish that i had started years ago.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Caz on June 24, 2015, 09:49:51 PM
Welcome to the friendly forum Mango, nice to have you join us and looking forward to sharing you ideas and plans plus lots of pictures too we hope.

:welcomesign:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Lovstrom on June 26, 2015, 03:21:51 PM
For me N gauge is all about being able to drive the trains through the landscape.
My other love in model railway is O gauge but there is only limited room for the landscape around it.

Sven
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: paulprice on June 26, 2015, 04:52:36 PM
Because its easier to hide my latest acquisitions from the Domestic Overlord

COME ON ADMIT IT IM NOT THE ONLY ONE>>>>>> :angel:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: PGN on July 06, 2015, 11:03:09 PM
I don't need to hide my latest acquisitions. I've got so many unbuilt kits sitting around, that if she sees me starting a new one, she's no way of knowing if it's a "new new" one or an "old new" one  :laugh:

I finally persuaded my father to buy me my first model railway in 1979, when I was 12. He had taken an interest in the new micro scales - N and Z - and had a small collection of catalogues. The Marklin Z scale catalogue didn't interest me at all (they only made funny foreign locomotives); but the Graham Farish "Romance of Steam in Miniature" catalogue had me captivated. My father, in his methodical, analytical way, had also been though the Peco catalogue, counted the number of wagon varieties for each of the "Big 4", and made a marginal annotation "LMS has most choice". This was true - but irrelevant, as wagons ran across different systems, of course. But at the age of 12, I didn't appreciate this.

So LMS it was. I started with the black Farish "General Purpose" tank No. 7313; I later added a black 4P number 1118 and a black Lima 4F no. 4547. I longed for a "Black 5" and a Peco Jubilee; but I could never afford them back then.

And I've been a confirmed N gauger ever since.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Kaian on November 22, 2015, 07:46:51 AM
I have never had a model railway or trainset unless you count the wooden trains and track when I was 2.

Since leaving uni I got into it as I always wanted a model railway and started picking up 00 items as the model shops near me only stocked 00. After a year or so I moved into my first house and had no space and came across n gauge which would allow me to make something in the no space.

Alas real world got in the way and working for a small company I worked 3 in 4 weekends as well as during the week for years and left no time.

I continued to collect some trains I liked and have moved to a larger house and have a joint hobby room with my wife that the kids are not allowed in. This means I can have a decent sized layout in n which I have been planning.

I have my first layout pinned down as a learning concept to make the mistakes on and make real informed operating decisions (play trains).

Made a start at least and has only taken 8 years for a small roundly layout!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Marcus Amison on November 22, 2015, 08:55:42 AM
Quote from: Kaian on November 22, 2015, 07:46:51 AM
I have never had a model railway or trainset unless you count the wooden trains and track when I was 2.

Since leaving uni I got into it as I always wanted a model railway and started picking up 00 items as the model shops near me only stocked 00. After a year or so I moved into my first house and had no space and came across n gauge which would allow me to make something in the no space.

Alas real world got in the way and working for a small company I worked 3 in 4 weekends as well as during the week for years and left no time.

I continued to collect some trains I liked and have moved to a larger house and have a joint hobby room with my wife that the kids are not allowed in. This means I can have a decent sized layout in n which I have been planning.

I have my first layout pinned down as a learning concept to make the mistakes on and make real informed operating decisions (play trains).

Made a start at least and has only taken 8 years for a small roundly layout!
Hi. Welcome to the forum. Like you I'm also a Nawbie. My layouts coming along nicely thanks in part to all the great advice from other members, and I'm very thankful for that. It'll be interesting to see how your layout develops and hopefully you will post your progress on the forum. :)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: PGN on November 22, 2015, 09:45:52 AM
Quote from: Kaian on November 22, 2015, 07:46:51 AM
I have my first layout pinned down as a learning concept to make the mistakes on and make real informed operating decisions (play trains).

I think you'll find, if you're anything like me, that there are an AWFUL LOT of tem thar operating decisions to be made ... and that you'll need to collect a VAST AMOUNT of information about them before drawing any definite conclusions one way or another  :bounce:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Firefox on November 24, 2015, 05:48:14 PM
Space and cost.

But ultimately, portability.

I want to take my layout easily (on one board)  to different places, family, friends etc.

I can have a good layout on 1200x750. I'd be very limited in OO as to what I could do in that area.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Derwentbob on December 10, 2015, 10:34:22 PM
I was a confirmed OO fan in my youth but when the shed fell down I took up wargaming instead. Fast forward to a few years ago and I was playing A Very British Civil War in 10mm scale (near as dammit n gauge). A trip to the model shop for some Metcalfe buildings to adorn the wargame table went badly wrong when I found I had bought  a Farish City of Leicester, an oval of track and a gaugemaster controller by accident. I had to go back for the buildings and stone me if I didn't get it wrong again...
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: JasonBz on December 11, 2015, 01:18:04 AM
Quote from: Lovstrom on June 26, 2015, 03:21:51 PM
For me N gauge is all about being able to drive the trains through the landscape.
My other love in model railway is O gauge but there is only limited room for the landscape around it.

Sven

Thank you for reminding me why exactly I like N gauge - Though in my case there is no O gauge to tempt me (yet! come on Dapol with that 08!!) I get some 4mm scale itches very often, that just have to be scratched :)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: nightfly on December 13, 2015, 02:28:49 AM
Hi! I'm new here; I live in the U.S.A., 59 y/o. I started N scale when I was about 10, we had O gauge Lionel trains which we set up every Christmas, but had to take down by New Years Day. So the rest of the year, no trains for me! But while looking at slot cars, I notice an Aurora 'postage stamp' railroad set; it had a Minitrix Santa Fe warbonned F3 (I think) and a few cars. I set it up on top of my dresser and had my trains every day of the year after that. Alas, I got a little older and girls replaced my interest in trains for a few decades. In 2005, I got the bug again when a friend took me to a model railroad show. And I was hooked again. Since then, I've spent way too much on trains (this is a disease!). But it's going to fill my retirement time well. Right now, I'm housebound for a while as my leg heals. So I found this forum in a search. Interesting reading! and will be happy to write back and forth with everyone here!  :)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: jrb on December 22, 2015, 02:48:28 AM
Picard told me to.

[smg id=33181 type=full align=none caption=]



:bounce:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Komata on December 22, 2015, 03:04:05 AM
jrb

And should he say 'Dis' N gauge, would you???

(one has to ask these questions... :)  )
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Railwaygun on December 22, 2015, 04:41:22 PM
or even "Dat N Gauge"?
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: stlbud on January 05, 2016, 07:08:36 PM
I found an Arnold-Rapido N Guage set at the local department store (US) when I was 10 years old. The price fit my budget at the time. I was intrigued by the size. I've been with it ever since (50 years) :D T-Trak has captured my imagination and is my now my first interest.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Benchy on January 15, 2016, 11:23:09 PM
Space, yet funnily enough I find n gauge models more detailed then their 00 counterparts. Hornby seems to be made all out of plastic!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on January 16, 2016, 01:02:52 PM
Space - the final frontier :doh:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: chrisiilc on January 17, 2016, 12:08:40 PM
 I found the n models very cute, compared to the HO models  , there is a growing choice of models , and of course the possibility to model a pretty  landscape in little room  ...
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Nik96 on February 06, 2016, 10:14:13 PM
I chose N gauge as I bought a Duchess Of Hamilton ( the original farish model) to add to a collection formed in part by my grandfather. I continued adding to it and saw the N gauge version available. Once one had been obtained I couldn't bear to see it left in the box just being looked at every now and then. So I'm building a layout or two for it to run on.Hoping to blend the two layouts to form one in the long run.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: LNER1949 on February 22, 2016, 07:42:18 PM
It all started with Lone Star OOO back in the early 60s ! Limited chose,s then, till the Peco Locomotives, followed by Arnold, then the Graham Farrish tank engine, N Gauge society kits, now there is more than what you need for a good layout and a lot more scope. I see that a lot have said for lack of space, my reason is not so much as space, is that you can have a more realistic scale distance, ie, 13ft is about 3/4 scale mile, if you had OO you would need a room off 26ft ! + !!
Still working on my 13ft LNER layout, at least the electrics are working plus a motorise working crossing gates and signals. Most of the scenery is done, just the tidily finishing off to do, ie, post and wire fencing, trees and shrubs ect.
When done will post some photos one day a few had appeared in the exallent N Gauge magazine.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: johnlambert on February 26, 2016, 12:03:45 PM
Quote from: Benchy on January 15, 2016, 11:23:09 PM
Space, yet funnily enough I find n gauge models more detailed then their 00 counterparts. Hornby seems to be made all out of plastic!

I've heard other people say that they find larger scale models often look more toy-like than N gauge trains.  I suppose on an OO or O-gauge model it is more apparent if details are missing.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: LNER1949 on February 26, 2016, 02:23:12 PM
I think that the bigger the scale the more accurate you have to be with your modelling no margin for errors, where as you just might be able to get away with it in N scale. Though the trains themselves need to be as near to the real thing or they would look out of place and a tad messy I think, though I have not yet built any kit's or painted any as yet. Buildings yes.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: dualgauge on April 24, 2016, 12:55:27 PM
I went to buy HO. Did not have the money for HO, so bought a Bachmann N Scale set. Have always had N Scale after that. Do have a few HO cars and locomotives from belonged to an HO club. Now just belong to N Scale club.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Unclealbo on April 24, 2016, 01:10:01 PM
Initially I went for N because of space limitations (confined to the shed).  However now that I'm well into it,  I agree with one of the earlier comments that N seems more 'real' and less toy like.  At various exhibitions I have looked particularly at O gauge and whilst they have levels of detail we can only aspire to, they definitely look toy like.  The only down side of course is the need for eye magnification and fingers that occasionally feel like sausages.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: LNER1949 on April 24, 2016, 10:14:35 PM
Don't worry about fat working fingers which I have, after and still shoeing and blacksmithing for 46 years ! So N gauge modelling started 10 years earlier !
Just that my eyes are not quite as good as they used to be, though not ready for bifocals so keep misplacing the right pare to ware !
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: 47 years N on April 30, 2016, 09:57:23 PM
I too remember lone star ooo. I recall carving a cutting in the grass up the back garden for Casey Jones to run on. Unpopular with Mum!
First electric N scale locomotive was a Lima brown Italian electric bo bo which I eventually painted blue with yellow ends.
Over the years I have dabbled with Ho and N most recently with a garage sized HO layout. NOPE!  There is something about the size of N scale that feels right to me. Crazy I know given the choice you would think that the bigger scale would win out. Turned the garage into a sewing room and now have a layout on an Ikea 200cm x 60cm tabletop. A big factor for going back to N scale is Farish's MK1 what an improvement. Personally I would like better running quality over smaller radii.  I think that I will be N for the rest of my life.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: LNER1949 on April 30, 2016, 10:09:56 PM
I've too much stock to change to another scale anyway, if the Mk ll coaches are too big go for the old 4 wheeler coaches as they would go round a sharper radius bend, if that helps.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: 47 years N on April 30, 2016, 10:29:55 PM
I used to model continental N. They know how to compromise between good looks and excellent tracking on small radii. Admittedly some of their designs are looking a little toylike now but were miles better when our UK N was a joke. If only Fleischmann made UK N scale.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: railsquid on April 30, 2016, 11:54:08 PM
Quote from: GreatBigBlue on April 30, 2016, 09:57:23 PM
I too remember lone star ooo. I recall carving a cutting in the grass up the back garden for Casey Jones to run on. Unpopular with Mum!
You had a model burger bar (http://www.doyouremember.co.uk/memory/casey-jones-burger-bar)? ;)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: 47 years N on May 01, 2016, 07:36:59 AM
I refer to Casey Jones "steamin an a rollin" who was on the TV at the time. A man who stopped his train by engaging reverse at full throttle :laugh3:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on May 01, 2016, 10:45:08 AM
Note that at 0.07 the name 'Cannonball Express' is reversed......................
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ig3GcDBjQN4 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ig3GcDBjQN4)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Webbo on May 01, 2016, 11:32:29 AM
Great stuff NPN. I loved this show when I was a kid.

Webbo
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on May 01, 2016, 11:39:33 AM
Quote from: Webbo on May 01, 2016, 11:32:29 AM
Great stuff NPN. I loved this show when I was a kid.

Webbo

Lots of episodes on YouTube but it's awfully dated now :(
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Bealman on May 05, 2016, 12:25:46 PM
MK2 what?  ???

Sorry, not entirely familiar with Japanese practice, although I am very interested.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: railsquid on May 05, 2016, 01:54:12 PM
BR Mk2a coaches, I presume.

Maybe a bit futuristic for your tastes ;) but I would guess the batch which came over last year has probably all vanished by now (some of it in my direction  :beers: ).
(http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/17/thumb_29651.jpg) (http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view;id=29651)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: paulprice on May 06, 2016, 10:06:15 AM
Whats N gauge is it as good as 00???  ;) ;) ;)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Unclealbo on May 06, 2016, 10:24:18 AM
The post should say What's N gauge.  It's an obvious answer, N gauge is for clever people who know where to stick their apostrophies. The alternative answer is that it's the same as 00 but less toy like and only for very skilled people with a wide selection of reading glasses and/or magnifying glasses :laugh:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: bob lawrence on May 11, 2016, 08:59:59 PM
I have been building a oo gauge for about 18 months and now only need 'bits and pieces' as well as having a few buildings that still need completing so wanted a new project. My oo layout is in the partially converted loft, i.e. Velux window properly strengened floor but no dormer so limited space, hence a n gauge, as this also has to go in the loft.
Have chosen a layout and am part way on laying the track. As yet only have a dapol wagon kit put together but not yet painted. As it's my birthday in a few days, and have asked for money, I have been looking at diesel locos and have chosen these three, not yet deciding which one.
All Dapol - class 26 1st choice, Hymek class 35 2nd choice and class 22 third.
Any thoughts?



Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on May 11, 2016, 09:05:49 PM
Hi Bob, and welcome to the forum :wave:

In green the class 35 and 22 were pure Western region locos but the class 26 would have been visiting from the Eastern region early in their lives but were then transferred up to Scotland. This only applies to D5300-D5319 (I think) as the rest were pure Scottish region locos. If you run Rule 1 then this would not be an issue.

Some of the box shifters like Rails of Sheffield have the class 22 on offer at present :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Caz on May 12, 2016, 01:43:24 PM
Welcome on board Bob, great to have you join us.  I'm mainly steam but do have a couple of Class 22's on the layout, lovely little engines which both run very smooth and great if you're a GW fan.

:welcomesign:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: bob lawrence on May 18, 2016, 08:01:55 AM
Thanks for all replies, bit of a change, decided on Graham Farish weathered class 25/1 D5222. Bought from  Kernow Model Rail Center as we are on holiday in Cornwall, staying at Chacewater caravan site, just liked it's look.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: port perran on May 18, 2016, 08:23:19 AM
Quote from: Bob Lawrence on May 18, 2016, 08:01:55 AM
Thanks for all replies, bit of a change, decided on Graham Farish weathered class 25/1 D5222. Bought from  Kernow Model Rail Center as we are on holiday in Cornwall, staying at Chacewater caravan site, just liked it's look.
Enjoy Cornwall (sorry it's raining right now). We live 5 miles along the road from where you are staying.
Have fun.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: bob lawrence on May 18, 2016, 10:03:05 PM
Enjoy Cornwall (sorry it's raining right now). We live 5 miles along the road from where you are staying.
Have fun.

Have looked at your links and look brilliant. As I am so close was wondering if I could come along and have a look? In the event I can, we are setting off early Saturday to journey home so Thursday or Friday evening if convenient.
Regards
Bob
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: port perran on May 19, 2016, 08:06:03 AM
Hi Bob. That sounds good.
I'll send you a Personal Message.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: port perran on May 21, 2016, 03:35:27 PM
Hi Bob
It was really good to meet up with you and Annette on Friday.
Hope you had a safe trip back up North.
Martin
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: bob lawrence on May 27, 2016, 06:41:02 PM
(//)
Yes back home safe and sound. Thanks again for letting us come and have a look. Was very impressed with the detail has given me some good ideas, especially incorporating water I have just the place at one end. Good also to be able to see my class 25 running, didn't realise it had directional lights. Annette was Also taken with Lorraine's, she has said she might start one of her own!!! watch this space.
Have been working to complete laying my track and running my 25, which runs very well.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on May 27, 2016, 08:09:11 PM
Quote from: Bob Lawrence on May 27, 2016, 06:41:02 PM

Have been working to complete laying my track and running my 25, which runs very well.

Oh dear, Bob.
PlayiRunning trains normally causes all other progress to slow dramatically. Just don't ask how I know that ;)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Tractor37 on June 25, 2016, 10:09:49 PM
Hi... Thought I'd add my violence worth. Wasn't planning on changing to n as I was an OO guy for many a moon.
But having given over half of the loft to my better half for her sewing area due to lads wanting separate rooms, I was prevented from having the 20 by 14 area. So I was  left with 14 ft square, so decided that to get th  long trains running I needed to change. And here I am now...
To be honest I now prefer the look o  this size to that of OO...
Jas...  :beers:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: guest5536 on September 14, 2016, 10:21:49 AM
For me it's a matter of space, there's not a great saving cash wise compared with 00.
One thing I liked a year or two ago was the Z gauge layout in a  briefcase, but that
cost ££££s.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Spoz on October 12, 2016, 12:24:11 AM
Started in N 30 years ago when serving in the Navy; postings all over Australia every couple of years meant that the hobby had to be at least semi portable! - and, given that we lived in a wide variety of houses, easily adaptable to changing space availability.   At that time, N was the smallest (almost) viable scale so it was the natural choice.   Of course in those days, the quality of the product wasn't great and if one wanted to model Australian prototype (as I did) there was no RTR, a small choice of kits, and a lot of scratchbuilding!  Now, with much better quality in all prototypes and a wider range in most, it allows me to indulge my standard guage interests fairly easily and at a reasonable price.  It's now complemeted by  G scale narrow gauge in the garden, but that's another story..........
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Black Cloud on November 24, 2016, 12:15:05 PM
I started out in TT but it was already obsolete when I inherited my brother's layout. I realised that I would have to move up a scale to OO or down a scale to N if I wanted to achieve my desire to build a mainline in miniature and N was the obvious choice because you can build a mainline in a smaller space.  Fifty years on and several house moves later and I am finally getting closer to realising the dream!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: GreenDiesel on December 28, 2016, 03:10:18 AM
For me, it was totally due to lack of space. My 00 layouts were so crammed with tight curves, etc., they didn't look realistic -- they were either too small or too toy train like. With N, you can not only get more layout in, but the railway looks more believable  with longer trains.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: paulprice on December 28, 2016, 09:08:14 AM
I liked the challenge, though now I'm not too sure  :-[
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Delboy on December 28, 2016, 11:36:08 AM
I was collecting for OO gauge when some-one I worked with gave me a starter N gauge set. That got me thinking how much more I could get into my space. That and coupled to my realisation that, these days, the detail in N is quite something to behold prompted me to swap my OO items and start with N.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Chris Morris on December 28, 2016, 06:14:05 PM
I did OO for many years then sold the lot and gave up model railways for a few years. I then got into G scale in the garden (which I would recommend ) but found I wanted to have something to ruin the winter. This was in 2012 and by then the new N gauge locos and rolling stock were so well detailed that I fancied having a go at an N gauge project. I now have two N gauge exhibition layouts and still love the garden railway.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: RailGooner on December 28, 2016, 06:31:42 PM
Quote from: Chris Morris on December 28, 2016, 06:14:05 PM
.. something to ruin the winter. ...
??? N gets the blame for everything!  ;)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: dp247 on December 30, 2016, 01:09:40 AM
It seems I pulled the trigger because life just isn't tough enough already... pretty much everything I want to run from the LNER is available in OO gauge in RTR or kit form, so naturally I chose N! The real reason, like so many others is space, as a grad student its always been at a premium and will be for some time to come, and I wanted to run longer prototypical trains on a loop.  :(

Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Shropshire Lad on December 30, 2016, 10:27:46 AM
Quote from: RailGooner on December 28, 2016, 06:31:42 PM
Quote from: Chris Morris on December 28, 2016, 06:14:05 PM
.. something to ruin the winter. ...
??? N gets the blame for everything!  ;)
I've seen the way he runs them  :D
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Shropshire Lad on December 30, 2016, 10:31:48 AM
I've been toying with an indoor railway for a while ( G Scale outdoors usually) and heard :-) about the Farish sound fitted class 108. Having seen how N gauge had improved since I last looked I took the plunge!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: 70000 on January 12, 2017, 07:17:57 PM
I'm another person that started with Lone Star OOO push-a-long trains bought from Woolworths - I can even remember having the first pack of stock (a green 3F and an open wagon) bought for me in the shop! (think they cost 1/6.....)
Have literally had an OO layout since I was born, starting with a Hornby Dublo R1 0-6-0T and 2 coaches, but had a small N set up from the mid 1970's - UK outline at first, then changed to US outline in the 1980's when I got hooked on their rail systems there whilst on holiday. Certainly easier modelling US outline in N rather than HO for space reasons if nothing else, and have accumulated a lot of stock over there on my many visits to North America.
Currenly have N & OO layouts indoors and a G scale one in the garden.......
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Snowwolflair on January 12, 2017, 08:03:51 PM
I was ten and it was free. :D
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on January 12, 2017, 09:42:21 PM
Quote from: Snowwolflair on January 12, 2017, 08:03:51 PM
I was ten and it was free. :D

Eh?
You mean you didn't have to work up chimneys? :o
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: carlstavros on January 25, 2017, 10:43:57 PM
As a kid I had a OO layout in my bedroom that my dad built and realised that I was never likely to have the same space when older, hence I started buying and collecting N gauge for the future. I've only recently started my layout in the loft and the baseboard is nearly done. Currently planning the track. Photos to follow!

Cheers,
Carl.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: wizbit44 on March 25, 2017, 11:13:32 AM
Space was the key ! modelling in n gauge for 35 years sometimes l wish I had not bothered ,lack of items ,dodge chassis running farish (Poole)and lack of commitment from producers now and in the past ,after the news from dapol having second thoughts at this moment  to go European or American or junk the scale and dare I say it go 00 ?  Just seems that 1970/80s era has gone stagnant or my I be getting a mid life crisis who knows
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Quicknick on March 25, 2017, 01:01:28 PM
My reason for N gauge was based on many photo albums of my grandfather, with his O-gauge garden railways

I used to pore over these pictures, along with many old railway magazines we had in out attic.
From then I always wanted to model a large layout with scale size bridges, platforms etc, and lots of scenery, I didnt have the room to do this in O or even in OO , but discovered N gauge in the 1970's, and thought that would do.

And that's how I started.........My current layout is now based around Truro
http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?topic=33894.0 (http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?topic=33894.0)

Attached are a few of the pictures that inspired me in my younger years.
What I didn't realise until about a year ago was the significance of GP Keen. His O gauge models and layout are legend. My grandfather was also a fine engineer, and a keen railway modeler, and believe was a good friend of JP. Luckily my grandfather also took lots of photographs, which capture these moments for others to enjoy.

My Grandfathers O gauge garden railway in 1922, this one included the "Quebec Bridge".
The model bridge was 30ft long, whilst the original was 1800ft long. This bridge actually collapsed during construction twice in the 1900's, with tragic loss of life, before it was finally finished, and is still there today I believe.
(http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/50/3342-250317114309.jpeg) (http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=50208)

One of his O gauge Live Steam locos, home built, a 4-6-4 Tank Engine, similar to LBSCR 'Remembrance' Class I think, I still have this loco in 'kit' form for rebuilding when I can.
(http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/50/3342-250317122853.jpeg) (http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=50212)

Train Controller panel 1920's style, 20/25v DC Outside rail pickup was used.
(http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/50/3342-250317122125.jpeg) (http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=50209)

Some of GP Keens collection
(http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/50/3342-250317122243.jpeg) (http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=50210)

GP Keens epic Turntable, about 20 roads connect to it
This photo is a Christmas card sent from JP Keen, on the back it says
Happy Xmas from "The Pantry Dockyard railway" and The "K" Lines
(http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/50/3342-250317122621.jpeg) (http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=50211)


Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Chris Morris on March 25, 2017, 05:57:37 PM
Quote from: Shropshire Lad on December 30, 2016, 10:27:46 AM
Quote from: RailGooner on December 28, 2016, 06:31:42 PM
Quote from: Chris Morris on December 28, 2016, 06:14:05 PM
.. something to ruin the winter. ...
??? N gets the blame for everything!  ;)
I've seen the way he runs them  :D
It's a fair cop guv.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Webbo on March 26, 2017, 12:44:53 AM
Quote from: Quicknick on March 25, 2017, 01:01:28 PM
My reason for N gauge was based on many photo albums of my grandfather, with his O-gauge garden railways

I used to pore over these pictures, along with many old railway magazines we had in out attic.
From then I always wanted to model a large layout with scale size bridges, platforms etc, and lots of scenery, I didnt have the room to do this in O or even in OO , but discovered N gauge in the 1970's, and thought that would do.


What a terrific set of pictures Quicknick. The 1920s control panel is particularly interesting.

Your photo and mention of the Quebec Bridge prompted me to look it up on Wikepedia. It seems that it still exists and lays claim to having the longest cantilever span of any bridge in the world (1800') which is 90' longer than the Forth bridge spans. The loss of life caused by the two collapses during its construction was 88 making it one of the most expensive bridges in terms of lives lost.

Webbo
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: JayM481 on March 26, 2017, 04:01:34 AM
I lived in Quebec City for several years in the early '90s. Drove across the bridge a few times (road lanes were added later).

The photo of you grandfather's model is spectacular and would have been taken only a few years after they finally successfully built it. It was finished during WWI I believe.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Quicknick on March 26, 2017, 06:31:39 AM
Quote from: JayM481 on March 26, 2017, 04:01:34 AM
I lived in Quebec City for several years in the early '90s. Drove across the bridge a few times (road lanes were added later).

The photo of you grandfather's model is spectacular and would have been taken only a few years after they finally successfully built it. It was finished during WWI I believe.

I found that it actually opened in October 1917, even with all the failures. The last mishap been when they were raising the 5,100 Ton centre span of the barges in 1916, it was dropped into the water. But this was due a failed casting in the erecting equipment, not the bridge itself.
Its still a wonder of engineering....

Its taken a while to for me to fully appreciate my grandfathers models, this is only one of 4 garden layouts that i have pictures of.

My interest in JP Keen came after my local Railway club in Australia was refurbishing its library, and a pile of Model Rail Journals appeared. I read through these with great interest looking for hints for my N gauge layout. In one magazine was an article on JP Keen and the re-discovering of his layout 20 years after his death in 1973. I suddenly realised that my grandfather had pictures of the same layout & models.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: violets49 on April 11, 2017, 11:21:30 PM
(a)- Insanity. :(
(b)- a lack of space when I lived in a single room. :(
(c)- Insanity. :(
(d)- A requirement to 'keep a low profile' :worried:
(e)- Insanity. :'(
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: violets49 on April 11, 2017, 11:32:37 PM
Technically, I started in 000. (TREBLE-O-LECTRIC) 'N' hadn't been invented.  :( I've still got one of my 'Baby Deltics' but you can't get the rubber bands these days! ;D Also theres a wheelset missing!  :( The locos cost something like 42/- (£2-10p) Happy days. For some reason I associate that time with the Beatles 'Penny Lane' Appropriate as until recently, most of my 'disposable income' (Housekeeping money) went to an address about  fifty yards from the Penny Lane bus terminal. SPOOKY!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: railsquid on April 12, 2017, 12:33:55 AM
Quote from: violets49 on April 11, 2017, 11:32:37 PM
Technically, I started in 000. (TREBLE-O-LECTRIC) 'N' hadn't been invented.  :( I've still got one of my 'Baby Deltics' but you can't get the rubber bands these days! ;D Also theres a wheelset missing!  :( The locos cost something like 42/- (£2-10p) Happy days.
If you google about a bit there seems to be a small Lone Star scene dedicated to keeping these things running, with advice on replacement bands. The link I have bookmarked is this one: http://www.irwinsjournal.com/a1g/a1glocos/TrebleO.html (http://www.irwinsjournal.com/a1g/a1glocos/TrebleO.html) , there may be other sources.

I acquired a Lone Star Class 24 (as it wasn't known then) out of curiosity, incredibly it runs (despite being a decade or so older than myself) but the wheel treads are too wide for modern pointwork.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Webbo on April 12, 2017, 01:18:37 AM
RS, that's a fascinating website about Lone Star that you've pointed us to.

Webbo
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Bealman on April 12, 2017, 01:42:58 AM
Just took a look. Fascinating!

Thanks for the link, Squiddy!   :thumbsup:

George
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: violets49 on April 12, 2017, 12:17:52 PM
The wheels were incredibly crude (But not as bad as the Lima 'N'scale wheels that came later) but the were 'crude but effective' They were my introduction to 'REAL' railway modelling. The odd thing was I bought my first Treble-O Lectric set in 1966 from Jimmy Glassfords model shop in Cambridge street with my first salary payment (I worked nearby) And I used to buy things on a regular basis. I was alwas asking if there were plans to introduce new models and I was asured that there were new items in the pipeline. I have recently discovered that in fact Treble-O-Lectric ceased production in 1964!  >:(
I DID try to find spares for my last remaining loco about ten years ago but the prices being asked meant that a wheelset (One axle) would have cost several times more than the original cost of the locomotive. I'm afraid my 'Baby deltic' will remain a 'museum piece'  :(
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on April 12, 2017, 12:32:50 PM
Quote from: violets49 on April 12, 2017, 12:17:52 PM
I'm afraid my 'Baby deltic' will remain a 'museum piece'  :(

There's a new one in the pipeline from D.J.Models but probably won't be here until next year.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: ntpntpntp on April 12, 2017, 01:32:14 PM
@violets49 (http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=5309)  there are often quite a few old Lone Star items on eBay, including Treble-O-Lectric spares.  I've also seen sellers offering suitable modern replacements for the drive bands.


I think I may have a pair of wheels for one of these in my bits box.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: violets49 on April 12, 2017, 11:01:14 PM

(http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/50/5309-120417225157.jpeg) (http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=50849)


This sad and sorry mess is the last mortal remains of my last Treble -O-Lectric baby deltic. And yes, i have noticed that the wheel less bogie is upside down. Not really worth restoration, I keep it for auld lang syne.  :( I know DJ are bringing one out next year (Not for 42/- I'll bet. Hattons quoting £98) but its not a type I woulkd be interested in. Given the choice and the ability to travel back 40 years, I would have kept one of the Class 24's I had. This one actually survived by pure chance. when i moved house in 1970, I left a large cardboard carton full of many things including a large stock of Spares for Treble-O-Lectric. This wasn't deliberate but by the time i realised, we had surrendered the keys and the buildings were getting ready for demolition. The scrap metal thieves were making free and it would have been dangerous to go back. not least because El fuzz were taking an interest in the area.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: ntpntpntp on April 16, 2017, 12:39:48 PM
@violets49 (http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=5309)   Here you go:   a bunch of Treble-O-Lectric loco wheels on eBay:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/LONE-STAR-TREBLE-O-LECTRIC-/132160911099?hash=item1ec56776fb:g:HNgAAOSwvKtY81Pa (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/LONE-STAR-TREBLE-O-LECTRIC-/132160911099?hash=item1ec56776fb:g:HNgAAOSwvKtY81Pa)

A bit late if you've decided the loco isn't worth restoring, but just to illustrate the spares do turn up  (in case anyone else is looking).
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: violets49 on April 16, 2017, 11:17:21 PM
Well, who knows. It would only ever be a cosmetic restoration as after forty odd years the motor is probably badly in need of remagnetising. A;so need a bit of restoration work, a strip down and repaint. never say never! :)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: broadsword on May 16, 2017, 03:32:58 PM
Like most people I assume its the space available. With more
space I would probably be into OO, with a larger range of
models at not much more cost.Also kit making would be
much easier (ex Airfix modeller years ago).
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on May 16, 2017, 09:10:53 PM
With more space I'd just have a bigger layout and longer N gauge trains :D
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: The Q on May 17, 2017, 09:27:34 AM
I didn't, well not entirely ???, An N gauge layout became available and I realised my EM gauge Layout would be a bit limiting for Shows. The owner had died :'(, and It wasn't the area ( Scottish Highlands and Island) or interests  the widow modelled in ( London Over ground). So I offered to buy it, and was given the layout.  :no:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: violets49 on May 19, 2017, 01:59:39 PM
I have modelled in many scales (4mm, 3mm and 3/16 scale) and have even contemplated 7mm scale. (Too expensive!) I like maritime models and 2mm is better for shipping. I have also been facinated by small (2mm) layouts like Swanhaven and Inversnecky. and the models created by Harold and Bert Groves. As mentioned before, my initial entry to 2mm (OOO) scale was with the Treble-O-Lectric system from Lone Star but due to lack of experioece I didn't utilise the advantages of the scale. In 1969, i attended the 'Model Rail Scotland' show in the MacLellan Galleries in Glasgow and saw REL railway modelling at first hand. This was the third MR Scotland show but IO had no idea where the 'MacLellan Galleries' were. When I plucked up the courage tpo ask, I was astounded to discover that they were only round the corner from the shop that I had bought my Lone star stuff from. I decided to call in for half an hour and ended up going all three days. I have never missed a 'Model Rail Scotland show since. These days I spend at laest two days at the show working on a stand and pay in on the third. But going back to that first show, I remember that the first layout I clapped eyes on was an 'O' gauge Southern layout but the star of the show, was Richard Chown's 'Kyle of Lochalsh' layout in 'O' complete with three MacBraynes paddle steamers. I immediately went home and began to build a model of Kyle in 'N' scale operated by Minitrix Class 27 diesels. and with a fleet of scratch built MacBraynes Buses. It was crap but FUN! I still have the class 27's albiet much rebuilt and they are still running just fine after all these years (They will be 50 years old in two years time.) Theres been a lot of water up the sound of sleat since then and my intrests have come south a bit to Mallaig after I discovered the West Highland Line but its still fun (And hopefully not quite so crap!) But tats not ny only intrests. I discovered Sussex and the bluebell Railway by accident a decade ago and am now a big LB&SCR fan and theres also my Caernarfonshire roots and my obsession with Ivatt 2-6-2Tanks,. So who knows what the future brings! Now, what was the question again? Oh yes, whay did I chose N scale? I don't know!  :laugh:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: violets49 on May 19, 2017, 02:06:17 PM
PS. I did recently consider 'T' scale but I suffer from severe bouts of sneezing...  ;D
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: The Q on May 22, 2017, 09:03:37 AM
God created and all it contains....
But the Hebridies,
They belong to Macbraynes..
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: violets49 on May 22, 2017, 11:23:29 AM
Haha! :thumbsup: There are several versions of that wee rhyme. the one I know is

"To the lord belongs the earth and all that it contains.
Excepting the Western Isles and they belong unto MacBraynes."

I don't think they were meant with affection. It is also said that the MacBraynes were in the bible on account of old Noah MacBrayne running a livestock transportation racket. :laugh   :laugh:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: hedleyr on December 25, 2017, 12:17:10 AM
It was my brothers idea as you can get more on your layout because of the size but at times I wish I was doing 00 gauge when I was building the layout because of it's size and my eyesight also working on my locos as well with converting them to dcc but all in all as my layout is nearly finished with I'm very pleased that I have stuck with n gauge  :claphappy: :claphappy:  :claphappy:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: violets49 on December 25, 2017, 12:25:06 AM
I'm a 'minimalist' I try to put as LITTLE on a layout as I can get away with (And still have a workable layout). As to why I chose 'N' scale? I suppose it seemed like a good idea at the time!  :laugh:( Also, it was easier to HIDE)

Nollaig Chreidheil o'r Alba! :beers:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Tonye on December 25, 2017, 07:57:31 AM
My sister " TOOTS " got me into N gauge, she has some considerable stock . I think it `s becoming an obsession , now where are my Christmas pressies?, there must be some more stock!.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: broadsword on December 25, 2017, 01:58:14 PM
I'm in N gauge for reasons of space, 00 would be my first choice as there
is a much bigger range of models and kits are easier to build, also there
is not a huge price difference between the two gauges.Also N gives the
opportunity to run longer trains as I'm not into shunting puzzles etc.







Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Stuart Down Under on December 26, 2017, 06:48:24 AM
It is a long time ago, but I started in N gauge just because it was different! In the 1950s my Dad built me a TT layout, and I think he went for it because of the novelty. I started collecting N in 1972, but didn't get around to my first layout until 1980. Then there was a "short" gap, during which I continued collecting everything I might need. I learnt early on that in N gauge, you should buy any model that fits your theme, because it may not be around for long! I finally got a decent railway room a year ago. So my second layout is now well in hand.
:NGaugersRule:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Philip. on December 26, 2017, 09:10:19 AM
My Granddad introduced me to N gauge back in the mid 1970s, he was very wise  :)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on December 26, 2017, 10:00:08 AM
Quote from: Stuart Down Under on December 26, 2017, 06:48:24 AM
I learnt early on that in N gauge, you should buy any model that fits your theme, because it may not be around for long!

Amen, Brother.
Having missed a couple of items if something I want is announced I always look to pre order it, as chances are there won't be another run and all I find is ridiculous prices on Fleabay.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: davidd on December 27, 2017, 02:17:46 PM
Like almost everyone else I have read space is the limiting factor. I am just starting out, but want to cram as much in as I can. :hellosign:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on December 27, 2017, 03:13:58 PM
Hi David, and welcome to the forum :wave:
I would really urge you not to cram as much in as you can and especially to think about what points/trackwork to use as much depends on what you'll be running.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Safety Engineer on December 27, 2017, 04:11:59 PM
My first wife bought me a Minitrix Ivatt 2-6-0 and seven wagons from Railmail in Watford for our first wedding anniversary in 1977.

Before we got married I had a small WR layout on  the dark side, which was disposed of (with regret) to provide finance for something we needed. Whenever we went shopping, we always passed Railmail's shop and of course I stopped to admire said 2-6-0 in the window, little did I know she was going to get it for me, needless to say I still have it for nostalgic reasons.

Martin
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Pjlons83 on December 27, 2017, 07:56:09 PM
For me it was simply down to available space. To be specific it was the radius of the curves. I knew I had 300mm max (one side of a wall) and wanted an oval to pass through said wall at each end, so after looking into 00 and N I decided on N. From memory there was a tight 00 radius that would have fitted but it would have been a compromise on what can run on it so in the end I went with Kato 282mm radius.

At the time I hadn't even considered scenary, I just wanted a train to run along the edge of a shelf in the man cave, but now I'm getting into the whole Scenic layout thing I'm happy that I made the right choice!  :ngauge:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: ntpntpntp on December 27, 2017, 08:47:50 PM
A set very similar to this, bought in Fiji in 1974
(http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/59/5885-271217203807.jpeg) (http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=59779)

On my return to the UK I bought a Grafar Pannier tank and a couple of coaches from our local model shop, but sadly the loco didn't live for long.  The cheapo Bachmann set just kept going though, until eventually converted/modified into a theme park railway for my OO layout.
Bought some "decent" N locos in the late 70s, eg. Minitrix Warships and Peco Jubilee, a couple of OK-ish Farish GP tanks, and a few other just-about OK ones eg. Lima 31 and 86.   Eventually lured by the consistent quality of European N in the early 80s and that's been my main theme ever since.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: The Q on December 28, 2017, 06:49:31 PM
Expanding , on my previous reply.
I first started around 1968 or 9 with the basic triang hornby 0-4-0 , couple of wagons and  a circle of track. This gradually turned into a small layout with scenery. Not very well made.

Joining the RAF, I was a member of a couple RAF clubs as I moved around, all modelling in 00. I did try N but big fingers and a lack of range of models, in N, meant I settled on EM.

Until the usual, girlfriend and life getting in the way.

30 years later  and returning to Railway modelling as mainly a winter hobby, my summer hobby being sailing in ever decreasing circles on the Norfolk broads.

I naturally went for EM gauge, then what to model, that eventually came down to Ludgershall in Wiltshire, which has many family connections. So I started collecting stock and making the odd model....

Planning permission was granted by SWMBO for a shed, since she is getting one end where the track loops back to use as a art studio.

Then came a minor problem.... I discovered in EM, Ludgershall station is roughly 34ft long!!! But by this time I was committed!! . Even the small station Collingbourne Ducis ( near where my mother was born)  being built on the return leg, is 18ft long. I  really do wish I had gone for N ( or 2mm ) that way the shed would have been finished years ago. As it is it took ten years to build a 64 ft shed, time and money being big constraints.

Just one board had been constructed for that layout, when I inherited the N gauge model railway. This means all modeling has now been concentrated  in N gauge, though basic work on the shed internals  is continuing. I'm still struggling with big fingers, and managed to destroy a length of track last week when removing a signal...

Amazingly I'm now, having lived in 7 different places in the meantime, a member of Broadland MRC, which back when I was a founder member in about 1982, was RAF Coltishall MRC.
Broadland MRC has 2 N gauge, 1 00-9, 2 00 layouts built or under construction. With members being involved with G, 0, 00, EM, N, 009, 4ft 8.5 inch gauge and 15 inch gauge.

Having bored you with that lot, you can get board by looking  at the inherited layout Tiree..
http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?topic=38780.msg481393#msg481393 (http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?topic=38780.msg481393#msg481393)

Oh one other minor problem even with the huge size of the shed there is not enough room for the n gauge layout...
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: violets49 on December 29, 2017, 01:28:24 AM
Donald E Meek has presented a number of Doccumentaries on BBC Alba about the MacBraynes ships. They can be found on You tube. Although they are in gaelic, they have subtitles in english. He is also an excellent ship modeller.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Webbo on December 29, 2017, 07:43:05 AM
Quote from: ntpntpntp on December 27, 2017, 08:47:50 PM
A set very similar to this, bought in Fiji in 1974
(http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/59/5885-271217203807.jpeg) (http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=59779)

On my return to the UK I bought a Grafar Pannier tank and a couple of coaches from our local model shop, but sadly the loco didn't live for long.  The cheapo Bachmann set just kept going though, until eventually converted/modified into a theme park railway for my OO layout.
Bought some "decent" N locos in the late 70s, eg. Minitrix Warships and Peco Jubilee, a couple of OK-ish Farish GP tanks, and a few other just-about OK ones eg. Lima 31 and 86.   Eventually lured by the consistent quality of European N in the early 80s and that's been my main theme ever since.

Hi Nick

The Bachmann GP40 shown in your set from 1974 was one of my first N scale locos (Santa Fe #890). I have kept it in part as a reminder of how far N scale has advanced over the years. Rapido couplers (replaced by me with Kadees), greatly oversized handrails, a non-crisp paint job, and a motor that had quite a lot fewer poles than 5. The metal gears made a growling motion when running, but at least the locomotive was never prone to split gears.

Despite the less than brilliant offerings in N scale at the time, I persisted with it mainly due to the opportunity to build more layout in less space. I love all scales and have HO, OO, and G scale running as secondary circuits to my main N scale set up (which has some UK N gauge sneaking on to the tracks from time to time).

Webbo
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: The Q on December 29, 2017, 04:48:30 PM
Quote from: violets49 on December 29, 2017, 01:28:24 AM
Donald E Meek has presented a number of Doccumentaries on BBC Alba about the MacBraynes ships. They can be found on You tube. Although they are in gaelic, they have subtitles in english. He is also an excellent ship modeller.
I've come across his articles on line about Macbraynes, I'll look for the videos thanks.
My brother is fluent in the Gaelic  I know but a few odd words.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: bearhugger on January 01, 2018, 07:51:09 PM
Space was a big (pardon the pun!) Consideration for me, decided on a DCC set for ease of controlling multiple locos. I currently have a 4 x 3 foot baseboard so I can have an outer and inner loop and am looking to put some sidings in too. Want to have a little mix of freight and passenger trains.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on January 02, 2018, 09:30:47 AM
Hi Bearhugger, and welcome to the forum :wave:
Do you have any particular era/area you're modelling?
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: tgv_obsessed on March 08, 2018, 09:33:27 PM
The short answer is "because the man in Beatties in Kingston Upon Thames let me buy 2 curved points and some curves of either 2nd or 3rd radius, when what he should have sold me were some normal points, the return curves and a few straights"

But the truth was he prefered to just fleece a ten year old of his christmas money rather than give advice. Thats what OO scale is all about. Fleecing children.

This is how it should have happened

Me: Can I have these things please?
Mr Shyster: Oooh did you get a trainset for christmas? Which one?
Me: Yes I got the R.790 Inter City set
Mr Shyster: With that set, I'm not sure what you're buying will work very well. Lets go through the catalogue and see what you're trying to do
Me Ok then- Ok then I can probably draw what I want.  it I'm good at drawing!
Mr Shyster: Ah you see the curved points need extra sections to fit together and the curves don't really match up anyway.
Me: Oh (dissappointed)
Mr Shyster: But not to worry, these normal points are the right ones- and they cost less too- you can buy some more straight track
Me: Thank you Mr Shyster!

But instead, Mr Shyster lived up to his name, and i spent all my christmas money on track that I didnt want to use.
So naturally I have hated OO trains ever since.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: violets49 on March 08, 2018, 11:35:01 PM
Quote from: tgv_obsessed on March 08, 2018, 09:33:27 PM
The short answer is "because the man in Beatties in Kingston Upon Thames let me buy 2 curved points and some curves of either 2nd or 3rd radius, when what he should have sold me were some normal points, the return curves and a few straights"

But the truth was he prefered to just fleece a ten year old of his christmas money rather than give advice. Thats what OO scale is all about. Fleecing children.

This is how it should have happened

Me: Can I have these things please?
Mr Shyster: Oooh did you get a trainset for christmas? Which one?
Me: Yes I got the R.790 Inter City set
Mr Shyster: With that set, I'm not sure what you're buying will work very well. Lets go through the catalogue and see what you're trying to do
Me Ok then- Ok then I can probably draw what I want.  it I'm good at drawing!
Mr Shyster: Ah you see the curved points need extra sections to fit together and the curves don't really match up anyway.
Me: Oh (dissappointed)
Mr Shyster: But not to worry, these normal points are the right ones- and they cost less too- you can buy some more straight track
Me: Thank you Mr Shyster!

But instead, Mr Shyster lived up to his name, and i spent all my christmas money on track that I didnt want to use.
So naturally I have hated OO trains ever since.

Having experienced Beatties, but thankfully not as a ten year old, I can appreciate this, But my experience with them was not that they were shysters just that they knew hee-haw about the goods they were selling. (Buy this one, I don't know what it is but its more expensive that the other one!) It was little surprise to me when they went belly up! I don't think I ever bought much in Beatties. Any simple enquiry was usually met with a blank look and an attempt to convince you that what they were holding was what you wanted. I've often criticised 'Modelzone' but at least the staff had some idea of what they were doing. Only thing Beatties were good for was EFE 'seconds' for repaints and Conversions.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: broadsword on March 09, 2018, 12:59:50 AM
Was  the Beatties shop in Glasgow the same premises as  Maplins
who have also gone belly up ?
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: tgv_obsessed on March 09, 2018, 02:02:23 AM
Quote from: violets49 on March 08, 2018, 11:35:01 PM
Quote from: tgv_obsessed on March 08, 2018, 09:33:27 PM
The short answer is "because the man in Beatties in Kingston Upon Thames let me buy 2 curved points and some curves of either 2nd or 3rd radius, when what he should have sold me were some normal points, the return curves and a few straights"

But the truth was he prefered to just fleece a ten year old of his christmas money rather than give advice. Thats what OO scale is all about. Fleecing children.

This is how it should have happened

Me: Can I have these things please?
Mr Shyster: Oooh did you get a trainset for christmas? Which one?
Me: Yes I got the R.790 Inter City set
Mr Shyster: With that set, I'm not sure what you're buying will work very well. Lets go through the catalogue and see what you're trying to do
Me Ok then- Ok then I can probably draw what I want.  it I'm good at drawing!
Mr Shyster: Ah you see the curved points need extra sections to fit together and the curves don't really match up anyway.
Me: Oh (dissappointed)
Mr Shyster: But not to worry, these normal points are the right ones- and they cost less too- you can buy some more straight track
Me: Thank you Mr Shyster!

But instead, Mr Shyster lived up to his name, and i spent all my christmas money on track that I didnt want to use.
So naturally I have hated OO trains ever since.

Having experienced Beatties, but thankfully not as a ten year old, I can appreciate this, But my experience with them was not that they were shysters just that they knew hee-haw about the goods they were selling. (Buy this one, I don't know what it is but its more expensive that the other one!) It was little surprise to me when they went belly up! I don't think I ever bought much in Beatties. Any simple enquiry was usually met with a blank look and an attempt to convince you that what they were holding was what you wanted. I've often criticised 'Modelzone' but at least the staff had some idea of what they were doing. Only thing Beatties were good for was EFE 'seconds' for repaints and Conversions.

Oh I know that now, but this all happened in 1980, well probably January 1981- I'm pretty sure I picked up the Hornby catalogue that had the live steam rocket.

But I digress, yes I know that now, and I don't really think the saturday staff were crooks, but its a first impression of the world of buying model railway equipment.

On the other hand, it was 1980(or 81) and in those days a Hornby was still a big deal and Beatties had almost a whole floor devoted to the stuff, so one might expect at least an eyebrow raise, maybe not.

I ought to have gone to Richards in Wimbledon- a lovely independent toyshop where I used to buy scalextric stuff (that was my passion at the time)- the lady there would natter away very knowledgably about such things as Goodwood chicanes and Dunlop bridges!

At any rate, perhaps Mr Shyster at Beatties wasn't the only reason I didn't maintain a model railway at home. The Hornby set wasn't very good, and I knew enough about electronics (through scalextrics) to know it wasn't very good. Ok not as consistently reliable. The power pack was remarkably lightweight, providing a trickle of juice to the track.

I realised very quickly that a Hornby was expensive, tempremental and took up a lot of space. Even a friend of mine with double track laid on a baseboard found it difficult to keep the trains chugging along. And this was with a lot of fatherly help. Most of our dads were into electronics and they all seemed to have soldering irons and god knows what else.

Friends with N gauge seemed to have none of these problems, and in those days when kids did have trains, I remember 3 of them having n gauge layouts. I was much more excited by these tiny trains racing around their hairpin radii. But I persisted with OO not at home but the school had a layout- which worked!- and once a week some of us would give our locos a runnaround.

But I thought if i ever was going to have a railway it was going to be N.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: violets49 on March 09, 2018, 02:07:41 PM
Quote from: broadsword on March 09, 2018, 12:59:50 AM
Was  the Beatties shop in Glasgow the same premises as  Maplins
who have also gone belly up ?

Yes. St Enoch square.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: violets49 on March 09, 2018, 02:21:04 PM
My recollections of Beatties was a big toyshop. If you asked for anything remotely exotic all you got was a blank stare. The first time I ever went in was when I was converting my 4mm layout to code 75. Ask for Code 75 medium radius points comes back with code 100. "No, I want code 75, the stuff in the YELLOW boxes" Blank stare. "They don't come in yellow boxes." "Code 75 does."  "Do you not want these then?" "No, I want code 75, the ones in the yellow boxes." "They don't come in Yellow boxes" No sale! When Beatties were in Glasgow there was a decent model shop on Bell street, D&F models. and in Paisley there was the not quite so good MacKay Models. I don't even remember them selling any 'N' scale stuff. If they did it would be at full RRP prices. To be honest Hamleys who are now in the St Enoch Centre across the square are as good as Beatties ever were. Sadly we don't have one model shop left in Glasgow who sell model trains. Wildcat models in Partick do a small range. and I think Pastimes up at St Georges Cross also have some model trains. Changed days from when I could spend a saturday morning going around the Glasgow model shops
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on March 09, 2018, 03:35:38 PM
@violets49 (http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=5309)
Without knowing how far away you are, are these folks worth a look?

http://www.uddingstonmodelcentre.com/Railways-/-Trainsets/C8-1-0.htm (http://www.uddingstonmodelcentre.com/Railways-/-Trainsets/C8-1-0.htm)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: violets49 on March 09, 2018, 03:58:17 PM
If you mean Wildcat and Pastimes. Frankly no. Wildcat are primarily a plastic model kit dealer. They are good for paints and tools. Also do Metcalf kits and some Peco stuff. Any RTR model Rail stuff tends to be on the expensive side. AS for pastimes I'd rather not comment! Lets Just say they don't have a good reputation in the West of Scotland. The last 'real' model Rarilway shop in Glasgow was 'Waddels Models' which was in the old 'D&F' shop in Bell street but he closed down about a year ago.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: violets49 on March 09, 2018, 04:05:59 PM
 :sorrysign: Sorry, I missed the link (And the point) of your message. Never heard of Uddingston model cnetre but I pass through Uddingston by train every Wednesday going to Bellshill so I my check this out when the weather gets better! I have a friend who lives in Uddingston I ask her where this place is.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: broadsword on March 09, 2018, 04:44:58 PM
Mackay Models in Paisley sold Fleischmann N stuff at top dollar prices.
Not sure what's wrong with Pastimes, I've had a few items from them
and can't complain. Best bet in Central Scotland is Harburn Hobbies
in Edinburgh, not too cheap , but a good range and very friendly
people .
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Train Waiting on March 09, 2018, 06:52:38 PM
Quote from: broadsword on March 09, 2018, 04:44:58 PM
Mackay Models in Paisley sold Fleischmann N stuff at top dollar prices.
Not sure what's wrong with Pastimes, I've had a few items from them
and can't complain. Best bet in Central Scotland is Harburn Hobbies
in Edinburgh, not too cheap , but a good range and very friendly
people .

I couldn't agree more!  The last time I was in, I was served by a chap who is a very enthusiastic British 'N' Gauge modeller.  If you could imagine the polar opposite of the Beatties' Kingston branch reported above, this was it.  With regard to prices, a 'real' model shop must find it hard to compete with the big mail order specialists.  I actually make a point of paying more for some items at Harburn and paying for the train fare to get there.

Best wishes.

John
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: violets49 on March 09, 2018, 08:30:43 PM
MacKay Models have been closed for many years. Indeed, their former shop has, for a good many years returned to its original use as the back (Old Sneddon) entrance to Paisley Gilmore Street Station. They had a place in the Anchor Mill business Centre but I was never in it. This remained open for a while after Mr MacKay passes away but then closed after. I believe a dispute between Mr MacKay's Widow and the two chaps who were running the shop for her.
There was another shop in Paisley which traded briefly but closed as the proprietor was a serving policeman and the rules changed regarding police officers operating a business. so the shop closed.
Regarding Pastimes, They don't have a good reputation among the modelling fraternity in the West of Scotland. My own experiences with them have been mixed.
Appart form the February show in the SECC, I seldom use Harburn. They are an Edinburgh shop who charge Edinburgh prices. Where I live, it would be cheaper to take the train to Carlisle than travel to Edinburgh.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: violets49 on July 26, 2018, 02:37:25 PM
Managed into Uddingston model centre recently. Not bad wee shop with lots of kit. Not all that much N scale though. Wee bit on the expensive side but thats understandable for a small independent shop. Hope to get back soon.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Platy767 on June 11, 2019, 02:03:31 PM
I know it's an old thread, but just my 2d for the record...
A school friend had a rather large 11' by 5' N gauge layout in the process of being built in the late '60s. He must have been a bit of a prophet, because it was multinational. He had a Minitrix T3 0-6-0T, a Concor 4-8-4, an F7 (don't know what make) and a Minitrix V160 that would run all day. Happy times. I started with a Lima Diesel and a few wagons...but then September 1970 RM arrived downunder. Ardoch on the front cover and described in all its glory as Railway of the Month
I still occasionally re-read that article. (There was meant to be smiley, but drag and drop doesn't seem to work)

Mark
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: AdrianC on June 11, 2019, 05:22:06 PM
As this post has had a bump, I'll add my 2d as well :)

I can't remember exactly when (early 80s though) but despite my now late father having a large but incomplete OO layout in the loft I decided one year I wanted to switch to N, and got a Lima set with the blue 31 and 4 coaches, complete with oval of track with a passing place for Christmas. With further Christmas money I got some more track, the 4F and some wagons. I loved it, and haven't looked back, except I haven't ever managed to build a permanent working layout!! All the Lima stuff is gone now, except some of the wagons and the 4F loco body, which coupled to a tender from a long dead Farish Black 5, gives some bits for the boys to play with where it doesn't so much what happens to it.

The quality change over the years is staggering but although most of the Lima stuff is gone, I've still got all my early Farish. Some of the old Mainline and Suburban generic coaches have become donors for various projects, but all the early Mk3s an the like are currently getting interiors or a bit of end detailing etc.

Don't think I'd ever choose another scale, and one day I'll finish a layout!!  :NGaugersRule:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: chrism on June 11, 2019, 05:32:29 PM
In my previous modelling incarnation I was OO through and through, but that was many years and a couple of house moves ago.
When I decided to take the hobby up again my choice was purely down to practicality. If I switched to N, I could fit Coniston (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?topic=43692.msg573010#msg573010 (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?topic=43692.msg573010#msg573010)) into an 8' length - which would fit in my spare room and could be broken down small enough to fit in the car. Since I don;t have a 20'+ spare room nor a large van, OO was out of the question.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: honestjudge on August 19, 2019, 01:09:45 PM
For me it was a case of being in the right place at the right time. At the time I was a regular at a shop in North London, past, present toys in Palmer's Green.
The owner was trying to get rid of a job lot of n gauge stuff that someone had brought into his shop. I got the 2 large boxes for £40.
It was all Fleischman. 2x motorized turntables, 20 x flexible lengths, boxes of straights and curves, lots of points with motors and lots of various other accessories which I still haven't got around to using. It was a mother of a bargain. But it all started with that.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Chris in Prague on August 19, 2019, 01:18:26 PM
That really was a bargain. The Fleischmann motorized turntables alone were worth far more and are excellent.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Bob G on August 19, 2019, 08:58:23 PM
For me it was the Peco jubilee in 1971, with two minitrix BR(S) green coaches and six wagons by Peco and Grafar. I knew then what was quality N gauge and when I found a track plan in the RM in 1971 for a dumbbell layout which I combined with a track plan by Cyril J Freezer called In Disguise in the Peco Track Plans book from 1970 I was away. 9'6" x 2' in N and I still like track EVERYWHERE. Urban is my preference and I now have a pastiche of Ramsgate, Fratton, Eastleigh, and Southampton plus other SR/WR snippets.
But only now do I feel confident to sell inappropriate locos to be loyal to my region. And I have only kept the jubilee from my early acquisitions.
I was good and never did Lima apart from the CCT and Siphon G. Oh and BGs for my minitrix rakes.

Bob
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Dave3054 on September 18, 2019, 10:54:23 PM
What a good question. I agree with all the reasons posted so far.
Having built a garden railway in 00 and in SM32, I needed a winter project to build indoors. Having got permission from domestic management and a 4' x 2' size allowed. That was last November and I am still building. I love N gauge both in the detail of the rolling stock and the detail the modeller can put into the landscape.
Totally hooked.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: stevewalker on September 18, 2019, 11:55:03 PM
I had OO as a child, finally selling it all off to raise money to replace my ZX Spectrum with a QL in my teens. Once I had my own house I was tempted to have another layout, but time, money and space delayed things. In my 30s, I started buying odds and ends, second-hand and partly because of being able to fit more in, partly because I had memories of seeing and being interested in N-gauge in the '70s, it was N-gauge that I bought. Now in my 50s, it is only in recent years that I have had the space - when my M-I-L died, we needed somewhere to store things until my wife was ready to sort through them and a shed was cheaper than self-storage. Planning ahead with the shed gained me a 12'x 10' space. Time and money are still in short supply and holding thing up!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: chrispearce on September 19, 2019, 03:31:43 AM
My first proper train set was a Hornby OO gauge Flying Scotsman set with 3 Thompson coaches. I continued with OO gauge but bought a Grafar Austerity Tank set in my early 20s. I did what most would do and realised that so much more could be achieved in N Gauge. However, I was put off by a lot of the Grafar models. I always thought that, although the diesels looked pretty good the steamers were let down by those tiny pony-truck wheels with large shiny flanges which spoiled otherwise good models. Seems things have improved greatly since Bachmann has taken over.

I always admired the Continental and American N gauge models and have collected a few of each plus some 1970s era UK blue diesels which I hope to incorporate into a layout based on a fictitious private railway. This is currently being planned and I hope to start a construction thread when I actually get something concrete (which does make for exceptionally heavy baseboards) into reality. Cornwall will be the location and I am surveying Google Earth for possible places where I could site such a railway. This should be fun!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Ted on October 02, 2019, 02:38:37 PM
Quote from: chrispearce on September 19, 2019, 03:31:43 AM
My first proper train set was a Hornby OO gauge Flying Scotsman set with 3 Thompson coaches.

Snap!

My father mounted it on the back of an old door for Christmas, I was very, very pleased.

0-300mph in the flick of a dial. Don't judge, I was 5 years old. A very fortunate 5 years old I might say!

However, a few years later I visited a friend of my father's friend, who had a N in his loft. The amount of stuff and things going on (thanks to the scale) blew my mind.

This was late 80's.

I think I was perhaps 7 years of age at the time. Anyway, I still remember it.

I went home. I planned my layout and buildings, and everything... until my parents told me, no. It's far too expensive.

Roll on 25 or so years and I can now afford it and I'm addicted to buying 80-90's diesels... and throwing sound chips at them.  :D

*whilst working on my second layout after the first didn't go too well
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: chrispearce on October 02, 2019, 02:45:47 PM
Go for it Ted! :D
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: AdrianC on October 02, 2019, 03:30:52 PM
We started on OO when my Dad built a large layout in the loft, but although it ran it never got beyond track and platforms (and a huge amount of kit buildings) but no scenery. I got in to N because I liked the idea of the smaller scale, started with a Lima 31 and 4 coaches and it grew from there. When Farish started bringing out diesels that sealed it for me.

I never managed a complete layout, but then work, family, life in general got in the way and I only started looking at it again when I took my eldest to a local exhibition on a bit of a whim when he was about 3 years old. He's now 10 and has a small collection of his own.

Since my Dad passed away, I've sold all the OO stock (the last went a few weeks ago) which has helped fund the recent return to the hobby but I really need to crack on and build a proper layout.....
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: chrispearce on October 02, 2019, 05:06:39 PM
Quote from: AdrianC on October 02, 2019, 03:30:52 PM
We started on OO when my Dad built a large layout in the loft, but although it ran it never got beyond track and platforms (and a huge amount of kit buildings) but no scenery. I got in to N because I liked the idea of the smaller scale, started with a Lima 31 and 4 coaches and it grew from there. When Farish started bringing out diesels that sealed it for me.

I never managed a complete layout, but then work, family, life in general got in the way and I only started looking at it again when I took my eldest to a local exhibition on a bit of a whim when he was about 3 years old. He's now 10 and has a small collection of his own.

Since my Dad passed away, I've sold all the OO stock (the last went a few weeks ago) which has helped fund the recent return to the hobby but I really need to crack on and build a proper layout.....

And, if you do, please share your progress with us here! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: guest8097 on January 27, 2020, 08:51:07 PM

(https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/86/8097-270120205051.jpeg) (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=86693)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: railsquid on January 28, 2020, 12:21:39 AM
Umm, hi and welcome to the forum, could you tell us more about the photo? At a guess I'd say there's some N gauge running around the shelf above door height, but it's not really clear.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Bealman on January 28, 2020, 12:41:09 AM
I can see what looks to be an 08 in NSE livery in the top left......
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Swindon69 on April 29, 2020, 09:06:34 AM
I went to a few shows and saw some cracking n gauge layouts which opened my mind to what I could possibly do - so I'm just starting one in the spare room. There's more scope to what you can do in limited space with n gauge.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: PGN on May 27, 2020, 01:32:18 PM
Growing up in the 1970s I had friends who had OO train sets ... but it always struck me that the trains they had to run were artificially short. I didn't like that at all ... I wanted realistic trains running through realistic countryside. And my father always used to say that you wanted to go to the smallest scale you possibly could so that you could have a really complicated track layout and fit so much more into the space (although I think even HE would have balked at T ... although if there had ever been viable British-outline Z, I am sure he would have tried to steer me in that direction.

So it was always going to be N ... and when I got my first model railway equipment for my 12th birthday in 1979, N it was!

And although all of that equipment was sold in the 1980s to fund my home computer, I returned to N gauge modelling in the 1990s. And I've been modelling ever since. I collected pretty much at random for 20 years or so ... whatever took my fancy, although it had to be steam ... and then I had a revelation and realised that it was the pre-grouping period which REALLY excited me. So I sold all the post-1923 stuff and turned my focus exclusively to pre-grouping modelling in N.

I have made many layout starts over the years, but none of them every came anywhere near completion (my models just getting their running on club layouts and test tracks). Then a few years back I decided it was time to get serious about this. I build a little diorama ("Loading the Lorry") which I entered for the NGS annual modelmaking competition just to satisfy myself that I COULD do scenic stuff, then set to work on my current layout, Neraland 2. Trains have been running on it for some time now (with a serious reduction in rate-of-construction) but it is gradually morphing from test track into scenic layout, and I hope to have it on the exhibition circuit in the next 2 - 5 years.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on May 27, 2020, 01:39:58 PM
Quote from: PGN on May 27, 2020, 01:32:18 PM
Trains have been running on it for some time now (with a serious reduction in rate-of-construction)

I know that feeling only too well as, if I'm going to fit point motors (and it's my intention) then pretty much everything has to come up, and with decrepitude catching up with me I'm not so sure it will ever go back together again :uneasy:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Swindon69 on May 27, 2020, 02:22:40 PM
Oh and seeing the work of Ray Taylor and his partner tipped it for me.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: rogerkt on June 26, 2020, 04:31:14 PM
Mostly space..
I had 00 when young, but have always wanted N as it seemed more realistic.
Now I am starting again with a view to building it with my grandson.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Bigmac on June 26, 2020, 04:48:14 PM
recently my neighbour asked me to have a look at a hornby 8f he had found when clearing out his late fathers house. i cleaned it up and got it going.  but it was like holding a concrete block compared to my n gauge locos.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on June 26, 2020, 09:16:04 PM
Quote from: rogerkt on June 26, 2020, 04:31:14 PM
Mostly space..
I had 00 when young, but have always wanted N as it seemed more realistic.
Now I am starting again with a view to building it with my grandson.

At least you didn't say "building it for my grandson" as we all know that's a poor excuse ;)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Jack.S on June 27, 2020, 02:56:43 PM
I have a terrible 'I want that' mentality when I see something interesting. I was in Edinburgh last year, (for a cup of tea at Hollyrood House), and was out early the morning of the event for a wander with the camera. I made the fatal mistake of wondering if Harburn Hobbies was in the same place, spotted the Farish Highlander set in the window and that was me away down the road, justifying to myself that it was a great idea to buy one.
I eventually got one from TMC in March this year, just as Covid-19 was rearing its ugly head. I hate YouTube, it's cost me a small fortune since March but, probably saved a fair bit too in making my own scenery out of sponges and lichens gathered up the woods... :)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Limachild1978 on July 10, 2020, 09:33:13 AM
As a child my Dad occasionally got out the small collection of OO/HO trains and track, a mixture of all types and manufacturers. This fitted on the large extendable dining table but was very limited. We enjoyed many hours passing sweets round the track and would very occasionally be allowed to control the train! :-) At the age of about 10, I decided I would like my own layout and saved my pocket money and decided N gauge was the way to do it. This could then be a fixed layout kept under my single bed! 40 plus years later and I'm thinking of returning to some modelling. I still have the original items I bought, though the layout board has long gone. I discovered that most of these items are not that good in true scale sense. I have mainly Lima products, boxed and with the original price on some. (EG Class 31 loco in BR Blue priced at £11.50) I have joined the forum to see whether I can afford to do this. Look forward to reliving my childhood.....
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Bealman on July 10, 2020, 09:36:06 AM
If you can sell the Lima for a good price, sell em.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Limachild1978 on July 10, 2020, 09:57:38 AM
Quote from: Bealman on July 10, 2020, 09:36:06 AM
If you can sell the Lima for a good price, sell em.  :thumbsup:

Never! I have looked after these from the day I bought them. I just couldn't sell them :-)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Bealman on July 10, 2020, 10:00:20 AM
Cool! Do they work?
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on July 10, 2020, 10:06:07 AM
I have a host of unboxed Lima MK1 coaches which are probably worthless now. I've taken them to a couple of meet ups but no one's interested in them. Chances are they'll be heading for the bin.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Bealman on July 10, 2020, 10:19:27 AM
Hence my suggestion... if they can be unloaded to a collector for a good price, that can go to serious modelling!  :thumbsup:

However, it's often difficult to part with models that hold nostalgia.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: crewearpley40 on July 10, 2020, 10:22:45 AM
I have a lima class 31 unashamedly but it was a gift when I was young, albeit 5, i still  have her. Now older and can recognise lima locos were not rated, poor runners, had basic mechanisms, overscale. Compared to the lima Deltic which was overscale 1 : 160 compared to 1 : 148 and looked horrendous. Both sit not working in my shed scene. I had to say glad when farish came into my knowledge . I do have mk1s and remember them the Freightliner wagons but will look to update once I can safely attend a show or buy revolution trains , however tad modern up to date. Mick @Newportnobby (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=264) are they blue / grey , maroon or otherwise ? Tank's show last year at purley, I seem to remember had secondhand stall and when I asked the chap his reply was ' make me an offer ' . Ok. On inspection the coach buffers were missing and I'm not sure what the previous owner had done to the loco apart from ( censored ) made a mess
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: crewearpley40 on July 10, 2020, 10:25:26 AM
Good point george has made. I do know one or two companies are on the look out for second hand and buy / sell but whether due to present circumstances they are answering is a different matter
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: silly moo on July 10, 2020, 10:32:03 AM
I have a Lima Deltic that I keep to remind me of how much the quality of N gauge rolling stock has improved  :D

I used to have a long rake of Lima mk1 coaches which despite being underscale ran much better than the Farish equivalents on my old club's modular layout which had rather iffy trackwork.

I've kept my overscale Lima brake vans to go with Tomix Thomas the Tank who is also overscale. I've also hung on to a large rake of Lima mineral wagons which I have practiced weathering on.

Some of the Lima offerings weren't too bad for the time.

:NGaugersRule:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Limachild1978 on July 10, 2020, 10:40:08 AM
Quote from: Bealman on July 10, 2020, 10:00:20 AM
Cool! Do they work?
Not tried them yet to be honest. I have the original Lima controller too, although unboxed. I will be keeping them for sentimental reasons, along with all my Dad's OO/HO. Will get round to trying them at some point and let you know! :-)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Bealman on July 10, 2020, 10:42:48 AM
Cool. There's nowt wrong with that at all.  :beers:

@silly moo (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=profile;u=279)  has a good response here too.

Looking forward to further news!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Limachild1978 on July 10, 2020, 10:49:45 AM
Quote from: crewearpley40 on July 10, 2020, 10:22:45 AM
I have a lima class 31 unashamedly but it was a gift when I was young, albeit 5,
I had to say glad when farish came into my knowledge .
I knew of other makes at the time, (have a Hornby Minitrix N506 BR 8 Wheel Bogie Ballast Coal Wagon and 2 x Peco 7 Plank Open Coal Wagon 'Hood & Son' in Green). Went for Lima as they were probably cheaper!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Bealman on July 10, 2020, 10:56:12 AM
Well I'd be keeping them, buddy, but looking seriously at the new stuff.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: railsquid on July 10, 2020, 11:54:12 AM
Quote from: silly moo on July 10, 2020, 10:32:03 AM
I have a Lima Deltic that I keep to remind me of how much the quality of N gauge rolling stock has improved  :D

This should be a legal requirement for all N gauge modellers  :thumbsup:

I do keep a Lima Mk1 on the layout-under-construction as it's excellent for checking how level the track is.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Gizzy on July 10, 2020, 12:05:47 PM
Although I have had some N gauge British Railways stuff since the 80's, it was the release of Kato's Swiss Glacier Express and RhB stock that has brought me back into the fold.

I have G scale and I got interested in European railways, but LGB RhB stuff was, and still is, way above my pay grade!

The Rhaetian Bahn has become my favourite railway. Although very modern image, it also still has wagon load freight and heritage stock, along with incredible infrastructure and scenery which can't be beat.

Being metre (narrow) gauge, it still looks prototypical, even on Kato's train set 6 inch (150 mm) curves and products from Faller, Kibri and Noch for European buildings and bridges are easily obtainable from most model shops or Gaugemaster....
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Red Onion on July 10, 2020, 01:11:25 PM
When I was a teenager, I got into the hobby (my old man modelled OO in the loft) and I managed to make a small double oval track with sidings in N due to space, procuring a class 159 and 47 with a few wagons.  It was essentially a small bedroom layout.  I fell out of love with the hobby through my later teenage years but early twenties saw a resurgence of interest.  Now that I own my own place, I've set about building a proper layout.  Whilst I have space for, say, OO I would be limited to short trains and limited operations.  N gives me the opportunity for full length trains and more operating potential.  Plus I also have some stock ready to go!  Now I just need to get started on the building...
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: PGN on July 12, 2020, 07:46:40 AM
Quote from: Newportnobby on July 10, 2020, 10:06:07 AM
I have a host of unboxed Lima MK1 coaches which are probably worthless now. I've taken them to a couple of meet ups but no one's interested in them. Chances are they'll be heading for the bin.

Lima Mk 1 bogies are what you need if you're going to build a Highfield NER clerestory coach kit ... just saying!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: crewearpley40 on July 12, 2020, 08:05:17 AM
Quote from: Newportnobby on July 10, 2020, 10:06:07 AM
I have a host of unboxed Lima MK1 coaches which are probably worthless now. I've taken them to a couple of meet ups but no one's interested in them. Chances are they'll be heading for the bin.
I would put a for sale sign up in the n porium
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Foxhound on July 14, 2020, 09:13:03 PM
Space and the desire to run reasonable length trains....
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: c6250 on July 23, 2020, 10:35:58 AM
My father bought two sets of Marklin HO in the early seventies and I was hooked ever since.  The cost of rolling stock was (and still is)way too high to afford.  I tried two rail dc OO when I studied in the UK but the cost was still too high. Then I discovered KATO , it was hailed ' Rolls Royce quality  at Ford price.', and C62 was an engine caught my attention. I sold all my OO stuffs and switched to n ever since.
Besides, it is easy to hide a/several  rolling stocks in my super market bag  when going home.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: ImpInaBox on August 15, 2020, 11:51:46 AM
Quote from: c6250 on July 23, 2020, 10:35:58 AM
Besides, it is easy to hide a/several  rolling stocks in my super market bag  when going home.
Your supermarket sells N gauge???  I wanna go there!    :bounce:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: ImpInaBox on August 15, 2020, 12:09:50 PM
I had a Triang trainset as a kid and it grew to the point of going all the way round my bedroom floor on the three or four occasions each year when I set it up.  The current addiction started after a visit to the Newark Air Museum last year and, as usual, you had to exit throught gift shop where a 1:48 Spitfire kit found it's way home with me - another first since childhood!  That led to more WWII aircraft kits, a rapidly diminishing amount of space to show them off and an increasingly worried Mrs Imp.

Model railways appeared to offer a solution to the modelling urge that would occupy a finite space and provide some play value - for my growing brood of grandsprogs of course!   :no:   N gauge seemed offer the biggest bang per sq.ft and enough ready-to-run stock to get me started.  A few visits to exhibitions showed me what could be achieved in a small scale.  A year or so later I've learned some expensive and time consuming lessons but still having great fun.   :NGaugersRule:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Webbo on August 16, 2020, 09:17:14 AM
You'll also find that N modelling is more expensive per square foot than is OO/HO and larger scales.

Webbo
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Bealman on August 16, 2020, 09:26:22 AM
Especially if you derail a whole train of expensive wagons!

Sorry, insider joke  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Limachild1978 on August 17, 2020, 10:14:15 AM
Just checked my Lima controller and locomotive and they worked briefly. The loco is fine (according to the 9v battery trick I saw elsewhere on the forum) so must be the controller. Sealed unit, so not going to bother having a look. Pleased that it still works though.  :)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: GreenDiesel on October 16, 2020, 01:40:07 AM
Lack of space. If I had room, I would build a large 00 layout but we don't have much space in our small bungalow. So my current N layout is about 6' long by 2.5' wide, but I still have a 8x1' 00 shunting layout. So hopefully these two options will satisfy me.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: David Bale on November 28, 2020, 01:01:54 PM
Space
For eyesight and dexterity at the age of 58 it can be difficult in N. I'm a bit surprised O gauge is getting more popular. For some reason my brain thinks Steam locomotives especially large ones look less realistic than non steam! Especially going round bends. Front bogies look really toy like.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: ntpntpntp on November 28, 2020, 02:42:25 PM
Quote from: David Bale on November 28, 2020, 01:01:54 PM
I'm a bit surprised O gauge is getting more popular. For some reason my brain thinks Steam locomotives especially large ones look less realistic than non steam! Especially going round bends. Front bogies look really toy like.

Ah but you'll probably find a lot of O gauge modellers go for a terminus to fiddleyard layout with no sharp curves, in the same sort of size you might have an N layout or an OO end-to-end.  They only need one or two locos and a couple of wagons and coaches, and they can indulge in more detail in the models and scenery.

If you want a roundy-roundy in O then join a club!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: David Bale on November 28, 2020, 02:55:03 PM
I think I'll have to stick to N but before farish and dapol started doing Dcc ready or Dcc decoder fitted I found fitting decoders very difficult.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: dennisfalcon on February 08, 2021, 11:06:54 AM
I initially went with OO gauge, but in a small space, wasn't really keeping my interest, with N Gauge I can run more realistic trains and do some scenery etc, just need more variety of locos, seems OO gauge gets the variety whereas N gauge seems to be an after thought.
I keep hoping a dutch liveried 47 might come along.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: NLC1072 on February 08, 2021, 12:07:28 PM
I use n gauge because it allows me to model a really busy layout - a 4 track mainline with branchline and realistic curves, whereas 00 gauge Id only really get a twin track secondary line in, with train set curves in the space I have. There is something to be said for an express train going at scale speed around a realistic track.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: David Bale on February 08, 2021, 12:19:04 PM
My recent purchases of Dapol DCC locomotives has not been overwhelmingly positive, they were pretty good but not as good mechanically as kato and Fleischmann. I am moving to OO gauge.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Airfix 27 RA on May 05, 2021, 09:18:08 PM
Mainly space. 
I have a 10' x 6' room which is  a shared use for my Kit building as well, a lot of 1/35 Artillery and Tank kits and quite
a few aircraft hanging from the ceiling. 
Can do a lot more in N Gauge in a small space, plus the availability of really great RTR stock today, is fantastic, compared
to even just a few years ago.
Fully committed now.

Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: David Bale on May 05, 2021, 09:40:54 PM
I bought a hornby class 71 which I had to fix to stop it jerking quite badly. After a few weeks I changed my mind again, I am now back to N but concentrating on continental manufacturers  and Japanese. Quality of running wins it again for me. Plus N gauge = space
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Train Waiting on May 05, 2021, 09:59:07 PM
Quote from: David Bale on May 05, 2021, 09:40:54 PM
I bought a hornby class 71 which I had to fix to stop it jerking quite badly. After a few weeks I changed my mind again, I am now back to N but concentrating on continental manufacturers  and Japanese. Quality of running wins it again for me. Plus N gauge = space

That's very interesting and I agree completely about running quality.  From my own experience of 'N' gauge, Kato and Union Mills both give the consistent quality of running I like to see.  Although very different undertakings, I think both manufacturers have something in common.  The commitment of the person at the top of the firm; Mr Kato and Mr Heard.  We 'N-gaugers' are in their debt.

Best wishes

John
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: David Bale on May 06, 2021, 02:48:30 PM
It is often strange the way model locomotives are designed. On the hornby class 71 it had circuit board which I took off but I realised it was impossible to put back on because about 6 wires had to sit in the right place naturally for the board to go back on. The board never did go back on properly but it worked better!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Robert van der Zaal on September 27, 2021, 03:26:01 PM
Space I suppose.... plus an opportunity to play with scenery (space involved too). My Dad brought TT-3 over from his business trips to England as of 1959 when I was between baby and toddler until 1965, his last trip across the Channel. He finally had an excuse to start playing with trains! I still have it & am "working" on a layout. Plus some H0 inspired by a Dutch preserved railway. Must brush up my UK inspired N gauge Little Wicket and finally extend it though! Plenty of ideas....
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: pinball on October 03, 2021, 03:30:35 PM
A mate of mine of many years decided to start modelling in 00 gauge and asked if I had any advice on railways in general (as I am a train driver) where as he works in a different field. Found his ideas very interesting and thought more and more of doing something myself. Spoke to the mrs about it, and she thought it was a great idea.

Saw there was a prototype HST in N gauge, and because the HSTs were the best things I drove in my career, and realised as I could probably eventually run the thing as a full 2+8 set (which would be too impractical in 00 gauge) bought it. From there I picked up a few other locos I liked the look of (mainly BR diesels) and finally started my first layout over the last couple of weeks, and have really been enjoying myself.

Oh and I'm a Linux user and my music tastes vary from The Smiths through to hard 200bpm+ gabber ravey stuff, so I've always been a bit alternative anyway, so I suppose N gauge fits in with that!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Firstone18 on October 03, 2021, 04:34:38 PM
Like many, I went to N from the 'usual' 00 'train set' I had as a child so I could do more with the available space.
I did have plans to build a 00 layout in my garage roof, based on the Watford Tunnel entrance and the access bridge I used to sit on watching trains as a teenager. I saw Pete Waterman's layout at the Great Electric Train Show on Saturday, and was taken back to those times when I saw the Watford Tunnel on there; I even got to chat with PW for about 45 seconds!
I am now retired, and my first project was to build a 2.5 X 2 metre shed to house my layout. I have a lot of vintage 00 from Hornby-Dublo, Triang, Triang-Hornby, Wrenn, and Lima; so there is a loop of 00 round the perimeter of the shed so I can run some of this occasionally. The N gauge layout is two boards of 1200 x 600 in an L shape, with a helix off one end giving access to a lower reverse loop and storage area; unfortunately there was no room for a twin track helix, hence the reverse loop arrangement. The reverse loop is automatic by use of MERG kits, and there are sensors on each storage road at the end and mid positions for monitoring. The control and monitoring is via another MERG system. I have set the loop so the trains always run round in the same direction to keep all the trains facing the same way.
I could go on for much longer! I am intending to write a backstory to explain the imagined history of my layout, and how it became a museum with a main line connection.
One day maybe I'll post it on here.
Cheers
Keith
NGS 21472
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Woodenhead on October 03, 2021, 05:27:37 PM
I started in 009, moved to 00 and sold everything to go to N gauge in the late 80s - bad choice as Farish at their worst then.  Eventually sold that, got married had kids etc and somewhere in that time Dapol launched it's N gauge range and I was back.

Several restarts over the years at building a layout but wasn't until 2014 I had a layout in a room that I could play with by which time I had too much stock muddled over regions and eras.  Somewhere in the recent past Kernow brought out the Well Tank and the 02, couldn't resist them and for a few years I swapped to 00, all the N went back into their boxes.  Then I had to move rooms and despite having more space I needed to build something smaller again because it was now also my office so the N gauge came back and a sale of some of the OO stuff and older non dcc N gauge allowed me to convert over to DCC and sound which is where I am now.

I must admit in all this time I have always found it easier to sell my OO stock than any of my N gauge, I hold greater affection for my N models even though sometimes they can be a PITA to run.  So at the moment, it is blue diesels, a terminus station in the North West and a bunch of steam engines waiting for their chance on this layout.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: JanW on October 03, 2021, 09:43:46 PM
I got a Fleischmann H0 trainset for my third birthday and I have modelled in this scale until a collegue gave me a box of Minitrix stuff (and a Roco diesel) that he never used.
I thought that it would be nice to build a small n gauge layout for my son who was eight tears old then.
He played with it but the size of the models intrigued me.
At the time I had a lot of Dutch H0 stock but I was also very interested in British steam era layouts.
To test this N gauge stock (my son only had the Minitrix 0-6-0 tank and a worn out Roco diesel) I bought a Kato 2-8-0 loco and I was sold. It ran beautifully!
(Of course there was no British N gauge model to be found in my local model shop..)
So a Dapol 14xx with autocoach was ordered and I put it on my sons layout for running in.
It worked OK and I let it run in while getting some coffee downstairs.
When I got back the 14xx had stopped but the motor was still running. There was a burr on the worm which had stripped all teeth from the gear...
That was about twelve years ago. I gave away most of my H0 stock and the rest is stowed away.
I have a N gauge GWR terminus layout (Blagdon station) which still needs scenery added and I'm building a small 2mm scale cameo layout. This has to be finished next june so I can take it to the diamond jubilee of the 2mm scale association.

I just realised that the 14xx has never been repaired. I built a new chassis for it but before it was finished I decided I wanted to model in 2mm scale. Other projects came first and it is stowed away without a working chassis.
It will be fixed as soon as my little cameo layout is ready. I think....

Jan
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Brian taylor on November 20, 2021, 02:00:14 PM
I have been in the tabletop wargaming hobby for years and built a number of boards to play on, as time went on I found I really enjoyed that aspect of the hobby and slowly came to the decision to try my hand at a scenic layout as opposed to a playing board.
Am just getting started but chose N gauge as I have always liked the idea of really big setups, I am the same with wargaming, was always into big battles rather than the more traditional skirmish-based games.
I have a 12ft by 5ft space to build on so am really enjoy the idea of what I can build on that in N gauge.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: mca0004 on April 06, 2022, 09:13:26 AM
I used to model OO gauge, but switch to N about 2018ish.

I've always loved model railways, but never had enough money (or sense) to do much. It wasn't until I joined my club a few years ago I began to take it more seriouly.

My main reason for switiching from OO to N was, like many people, space. You can do a whole lot more in N than in OO. The space I have for my layout couldn't really fit anything good if it was a larger scale, but thanks to N, I can have a layout with shunting and a loop!

I'll always get amazed when I take a look at my old OO stock, because I'll think "Wow, that's so big", and then remember when I first got them and thought they were so small!

I'm also lucky that my two favourite locos, the Class 17 and Class 28 are both being sold right now, very good that.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Bealman on April 06, 2022, 09:23:57 AM
What amazes me about OO models, apart from their size, is how plasticy and toylike they look.

I don't mean that as an insult to the OO community, it's just what I think.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: tutenkhamunsleeping on April 06, 2022, 09:29:12 AM
Quote from: Bealman on April 06, 2022, 09:23:57 AM
What amazes me about OO models, apart from their size, is how plasticy and toylike they look.

That's because a lot of them are very toylike indeed :(

But things are changing: https://accurascale.co.uk/blogs/news/first-class-37-decorated-sample-revealed (https://accurascale.co.uk/blogs/news/first-class-37-decorated-sample-revealed)

:admiration: :admiration: :admiration:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Bealman on April 06, 2022, 09:36:14 AM
That does look pretty cool, but I'm sorry, the metal that the real thing is made out of, still looks like plastic!

Just me entrenched in N gauge, I suppose.

Sorry!  :beers:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Catsick on July 08, 2022, 11:52:05 AM
I started in the hope it'd take up less space..... well the layout does but the rolling stock collection doesn't lol
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Foonting on July 08, 2022, 04:38:15 PM
Initially because of space - I wanted to model 'Bembridge' 100% to scale without compressing anything track plan wise. Then when I got my first N gauge loco I fell in love with how detailed and yet tiny it was. Will I stick with N after I complete Bembridge ... well that's going to take some time as just the station building has taken me 8 weeks ... but I fancy giving 'Cowes' a crack after that ... and that's be WAY too big for my flat in OO  :D
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Timbo66 on August 06, 2022, 06:57:32 PM
There`s something I really like about how N gauge looks. OO seems toy like. I`d like an O gauge layout as well...
And space!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Greygreaser on October 17, 2022, 02:31:59 PM
Bargains!
Started as a child with a Hornby/Meccano O gauge clockwork train set on metal rails.

(https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/126/8822-171022141824.jpeg) (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=126885)
Later i persuaded my parents to invest in both a board and a Trix Twin set, 3 rail OO gauge but very poor realism in any of the British outline stuff.

(https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/126/8822-171022142030.jpeg) (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=126886)
My son got the bug and we entered into Hornby DoubleO trying to model Ashburton which we visited and photographed. The layout went round 3 sides of his bedroom.
The local MRC organised a visit to Hornby in MArgate and they were 'clearing out' of N gauge as they disassociated with Minitrix so I bought a few boxes and bits at a discounted price

(https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/126/8822-171022142515.jpeg) (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=126887)
These all got packed away for 5 house moves and when the pandemic struck i unearthed them and started Readum Junk-shun. Many different makes have caused issues, headaches, wine drinking, sofa surfing, eBay disasters and some success! Never let it be said that KISS has no place in modern technology! It has brought enjoyment and kept the old grey cells going to 80 :claphappy:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Taffius on March 06, 2023, 07:38:34 AM
I had made a start in OO gauge, and then thought I would get into TT:120.

However, after receiving a faulty train and having concerns over quality and standards, I thought it can go all back.

This left a 6 x 4 ft void and N gauge filled the gap and I am so pleased I went for it. I found Kato track system, a great forum and now thinking - did I make a mistake starting in OO gauge? Shall i convert my 8 x 4 ft setup into N gauge! :-[
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Bealman on March 06, 2023, 07:51:04 AM
I guess it depends upon how happy you are with the OO layout, Taff.

What you suggest would be a major operation!
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: silly moo on March 06, 2023, 09:13:24 AM
Nothing wrong with having both 00 and N, I do. I'd probably have 0 if I had the room. N remains my favourite though. I think it's the influence of my first 'train set' when I was four or five, Lone Star 000.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Taffius on March 06, 2023, 09:18:28 AM
Quote from: Bealman on March 06, 2023, 07:51:04 AM
I guess it depends upon how happy you are with the OO layout, Taff.

What you suggest would be a major operation!

Very true and a bit toomuch invested in it now to change....currently. :)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: dilflat on April 29, 2023, 10:38:58 PM
I had an OO gauge train set as a child and following that built a couple of end to end layouts before motorcycles, partying and chasing women became far more interesting.
Returning to the hobby in my late thirties I built a small OO layout using stuff I had saved from my childhood.

As a child I had been fascinated by a friend of my Fathers large N gauge loft layout (he would have been one of the pioneers in the scale) and so as I became more serious in the hobby, and wanting to model the railways I remembered from teenage spotting days I began buying N gauge stock and building a layout.
Nearly a couple of decades later and I have two layouts and planning a third. Alas, they can only be set up when space allows but as long as I have something to work on that is OK.

Potters Wood, my mid 70's Eastern Region layout.

(https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/131/5789-290423223720.jpeg) (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=131947)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on April 30, 2023, 09:04:01 AM
Looks good - can we see and know more about it please?
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: crewearpley40 on April 30, 2023, 09:08:20 AM
Just my type of layout,  tend to agree with Mick.. Chris
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: dilflat on April 30, 2023, 10:44:01 AM
Thanks for the approval of my layout. A bit sad at the moment as I have had to mothball it to allow youngest "no longer a child" to have the room. On the plus side, I get the opportunity to plan and build a new project in whatever space I can find.

I will put together a post giving more details and pics of the layout as soon as I get some time, along with my other layout, a small dockside shunting plank.
(https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/131/5789-300423104321.jpeg) (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=131957)
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Bealman on April 30, 2023, 10:53:38 AM
Nice work.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: 8A Rail on April 30, 2023, 01:12:58 PM
Strangely I have not given a reply on this thread although been a member for a while. As for reasons for choosing 'N' gauge I am not 100% sure but certainly as many others have mentioned, 'space' has been a consideration as never been blessed to have that luxury.

I did start out in 'OO' gauge and even had an approx 7' x 4' board layout but it was short lived due to family considerations, they needed the bedroom! :D Having visited several Model Railway exhibitions, one thing that did impressed me was some modern based 'N' gauge layouts which seem so realistic especially for the size. This laid the seeds for the future.

Eventually moving into a new house in 2001 and my family had grown up, it was time to recommence my model railway interests but limited on 'space' though. It was then, I made the decision to sell all my 'OO' gauge stuff and use the money to purchase 'N' gauge replacements. After that, it is another story but eventually I got there and never regretted it. My only issue is the 'age' thing now, my fingers / hands / eyesight are not as good as they use to be but still can manage though.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: eddief83 on May 11, 2023, 01:19:25 PM
Just stumbled across this thread (thanks to the Farish announcement thread) I was OO gauge for 30 years or so and had 2 exhibition layouts - one a transition era shed and the other a transition era branch line. But I am a sucker for A4 Pacific's and big trains so my enjoyment was waning with OO and N gauge struck me as the answer when I saw a Hornby Magazine article on their N gauge layout.

I have one N gauge layout (2 if you count my Dad's small layout I can borrow sometimes) and 2 more in the planning stages, all feature logner trains than you can get in the same size in OO and I love it
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Le Night ferry on May 20, 2023, 12:52:33 PM
Because house is smaller than UK, Europe and USA, N gauge dominates model train market.
But for Brass train, HO is more popular.
Title: Re: Why Did You Choose to Model N Gauge?.
Post by: Newportnobby on May 25, 2023, 05:29:59 AM
Quote from: Lurch on May 24, 2023, 11:12:08 PM
Looks like I'm one of the few to have never modelled in anything but N!

I don't remember a time I didn't have an N gauge layout, still got the same one I had in the early 80's. It was a "train set" until 1985 when it was fettled and upgraded to more of a junior layout. Foam track bed is a bit past it now and a couple of house moves have knocked a few bits off so it's looking worse for wear. A minor side project is to re-lay it to the original track plan in Peco code 55 and motorise the points etc.

Nah. I don't consider a train set in 00 when I was 8 to be modelling.
Like you I started in N in the early 80s but never finished a layout as I could 'jury rig' electrics to get trains running but really progressed no further. Now, when time is, shall we say, governed by the Gods I am trying to do it properly but electrifying point operation etc with tidy and logic wiring, something I am completely rubbish at :-[