Welcome to the In Miniature model railways page. Building and operating model railways is a fascinating hobby.
Scale: Scale is actually a simple ratio that describes how our model trains compare to trains in the real
world. A Z scale locomotive is 1:220 the size of a real locomotive. Compare this to an HO locomotive, which
is 1:87 the size of a real locomotive. Scale also refers to all the items on our train layouts... houses,
trees, cars, etc.
Gauge: Gauge represents the distance between the rails on a track. There are essentially two families of
railroad gauges, standard and narrow. These gauge classes apply to real railroads (also called prototype,
prototypical or 1:1) as well as model railroads. Standard gauge prototype railroads have a distance
between their rails of 4 feet, 8.5 inches. Narrow gauge prototype railroads are defined as railroads
with a distance between their rails of less than 4 feet, 8.5 inches.
Latest Model Railway Related Articles
Garden Railways FAQ
Garden railroading is the art of combining a model railroad and a beautiful garden to create a railway-like atmosphere.
Modelling Brick Walls
Almost any railway scene is going to contain at least one building, and it's pretty likely it will have some brick walls...
Model Trains & Radio Control
Radio control (R/C) is not only possible, it is becoming a widely accepted means of controlling large-scale trains.
Scales & Gauges
The most popular scales in model railroading and how they relate to the real thing
Model Vehicle Reviews
We are hoping to build up a database of model railway kit/product reviews. Please write us a short review of your experiences and thoughts about it (ideally less than 600 words).
In Miniature Forums
The In Miniature Forums are now active. Here you can discuss all aspects of model railways.
Welcome to the In Miniature model railways page. Building and operating model railways is a fascinating hobby.