N Scale Model Railroads & Trains

N scale is a small scale railroad at 1:160 or 1.9 mm per foot. These small model trains run on 9 mm gauge track. N scale model trains have grown in popularity due to their small size, as hobbyists can construct detailed layouts using less space. N scale is now second only to HO scale in popularity among model railroad enthusiasts.

Small trains similar in size to N scale were produced as early as 1927. The first actual N scale trains, however, were produced by the Arnold company of Nuremberg, Germany. Their Rapido line of model trains was manufactured in N scale to fit 9 mm gauge track. Other companies soon followed suit, including Con-Cor, Atlas, Rivarossi, KATO, Minitrix, Bachmann, and Kadee/MicroTrains. The Arnold company was purchased by Rivarossi in the '90s and subsequently by Hornby in 2004.

Early N scale model trains were difficult to run due to their small size and light weight. In more recent years, however, improvements have been made to the construction and propulsion systems of these models to enhance their durability and ability to run along tracks smoothly. KATO of Japan invented a low friction propulsion system that allows N scale model trains to run quietly on their tracks. Many hobbyists credit the KATO company with saving N scale model railroading with this propulsion system.

Quick Facts

• The Lone Star company of Great Britain produced a line of push trains in the '50s that ran on 8 mm gauge track
• The N in N scale stands for the German word "neun," or nine, which refers to the 9 mm gauge track used for N scale trains
• The Hornby company continues to produce Arnold N scale model railroad products, including original Arnold patterns and new Arnold products for international markets