| If you are new to model railroading you might be | | | | Flexitracks, for example, are more realistic in that |
| confused by the variety of train tracks that are | | | | they allow curves and angles on your model |
| available out there. Model railroad train kits often | | | | railroad that the more conventional tracks do not. |
| come with the tracks included, but a hobbyist like | | | | Other, more experienced model railroaders will |
| you can take it an exciting step further by mixing | | | | manually lay out their own tracks. I would suggest |
| and matching the trains and tracks from different | | | | you do this only if you are serious about this |
| kits. However, it is best if you first learn the | | | | hobby because it is a complex process that |
| basics of model train tracks. | | | | requires a lot of time and patience. |
| The first thing to know is the gauge of your train. | | | | One of the first things you need to do before |
| Not all trains will match with every track and the | | | | even going out and buying your mode train track |
| gauge is what will enable you to match one with | | | | is to determine where it will displayed. The |
| the other. A train and track with the same gauge | | | | amount of space you have available will be an |
| will surely fit. You can then proceed to mix | | | | important consideration. You will then have to |
| different model railroad kits from different | | | | factor this into determining the scales and gauges |
| manufacturers. | | | | of the kits that you are going to buy and how |
| The National Model Railroading Association (NMRA) | | | | they will be assembled. It is a good idea to look at |
| has standardized scales and gauges around the | | | | assembled kits already displayed in hobby shops, |
| world, therefore it is no longer necessary for you | | | | and then ask the salesperson how big it is |
| to remember specific measurements associated | | | | compared to the one you intend to buy. |
| with these scales and gauges. A set of letters are | | | | There are many different kinds of tracks out |
| assigned to each scale, so all you have to do is | | | | there. Among your choices are a basic continuous |
| remember them to assure compatibility. Because | | | | running model, a simple oval, a figure eight, a |
| of the standardization, you can be assured that | | | | dogbone, folded dogbone, and a track that goes |
| an HO train, for example, will fit an HO track no | | | | around twice. Easements, which are the objects |
| matter where in the world it was manufactured. | | | | that "ease" your trains into and out of track |
| Usually all you have to do to set up model train | | | | curves, are another consideration. Another |
| tracks is connect the parts to each other and | | | | possibility for providing variety would be using a |
| then snap them into a base that is made of | | | | turntable to automatically change the directions of |
| plastic. However, there are other options. | | | | the tracks. |