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THE PERFECT SCALE
THE PERFECT SCALE
A comparison of different model train scales.
S Scale is a model train gauge positioned between O Scale (made popular by Lionel) and HO Scale in terms of size. It became popular through A.C. Gilbert's American Flyer trains, which used a realistic 2-rail track system, distinguishing them from Lionel's 3-rail design. S Scale is defined by a 1:64 ratio, meaning that 1 inch on the model equals 64 inches (or 5.33 feet) in real life. This scale is known for its more realistic proportions, offering a balance between the larger O Scale and the more compact HO Scale. While less common than HO or O, S Scale enthusiasts appreciate its detailed models and the ability to create more realistic layouts without the larger size of O Scale.
S Scale is a model train gauge positioned between O Scale (made popular by Lionel) and HO Scale in terms of size. It became popular through A.C. Gilbert's American Flyer trains, which used a realistic 2-rail track system, distinguishing them from Lionel's 3-rail design. S Scale is defined by a 1:64 ratio, meaning that 1 inch on the model equals 64 inches (or 5.33 feet) in real life. This scale is known for its more realistic proportions, offering a balance between the larger O Scale and the more compact HO Scale. While less common than HO or O, S Scale enthusiasts appreciate its detailed models and the ability to create more realistic layouts without the larger size of O Scale.
American Flyer | Scale | Hi-Rail
American Flyer | Scale | Hi-Rail
The terms American Flyer, Scale, and Hi-Rail refer to different aspects of S gauge model trains, and each has distinct characteristics in terms of scale, track compatibility, and operation.
The terms American Flyer, Scale, and Hi-Rail refer to different aspects of S gauge model trains, and each has distinct characteristics in terms of scale, track compatibility, and operation.
S Scale (also called S Gauge), is modeling in 3/16th inch to the foot, or a proportion of 1:64 to the real full size model. This means that the real model is 64 times larger than S Scale models in all dimensions.
S Scale (also called S Gauge), is modeling in 3/16th inch to the foot, or a proportion of 1:64 to the real full size model. This means that the real model is 64 times larger than S Scale models in all dimensions.
Here's a breakdown of how they compare and differ.
Here's a breakdown of how they compare and differ.
American Flyer
American Flyer
Definition
Definition
American Flyer refers to a brand of model trains, produced by the A.C. Gilbert Company starting in the 1940s. The American Flyer trains were originally made in O Scale (pre-war), but A.C. Gilbert transitioned the company to S scale (1:64) after World War II. Trains produced after WWII that run on 2 rail track are referred to as Post War Flyer trains.
Track Gauge
Track Gauge
American Flyer trains run on S gauge track, which has a rail spacing of 0.875 inches (22.5 mm). The original American Flyer track is taller than more modern scale track. Original American Flyer track is often referred to as "Tin Plate". Due to the size of the American Flyer wheels and flanges, they require a track that is at least 1/8" tall, also called Code 125 track.
Model Features
Model Features
American Flyer trains were known for their emphasis on electrically operated features, such as lights, sounds, and accessories. American Flyer trains wheels have a deeper and wider flange requiring the taller American Flyer track to run without issue.
Scale
Scale
Definition
Definition
S scale refers to the 1:64 ratio, meaning the models are 1/64th the size of the real-world objects they represent. This scale is commonly used for Hotwheels and Matchbox cars, but also model trains. These models offer detailed replicas of real-life locomotives and cars. This scale strikes a balance between detail and space efficiency, making it popular among hobbyists.
Track Gauge
Track Gauge
The standard track gauge for S scale is 0.875 inches (22.5 mm), the same as S gauge. While the gauge is the same, the rail height is different and Scale trains run on shorter height rail due to their wheel and flange design.
Model Features
Model Features
While American Flyer models were originally built for more toy-like features, S scale models often focus more on realistic details and accurate proportions. S scale is typically more detailed than smaller scales like HO, and it provides a good balance between size and the space required for a layout.
Hi-Rail
Hi-Rail
Definition
Definition
Generally, modelers who would flag themselves as Hi-Rail modelers are those who used to be pure American Flyer modelers, but are slowly transitioning or incorporating more to-scale features in their models and layouts. Both the NASG and the NMRA define "deep-flange" or "Hi-Rail" modeling as any equipment needing a rail height of code 125 or taller (i.e. 1/8" or taller rail).
Track Gauge
Track Gauge
Hi-Rail trains can run on American Flyer track or any track that is at least code 125 (or taller than 1/8") . This is a compromise between the playfulness of toy trains and the realism of traditional scale modeling.
Model Features
Model Features
Hi-Rail trains may have more realistic detailing than traditional toy trains, but they still retain certain toy-like qualities, such as the use of plastic wheels and simpler electrical systems compared to true scale models. These models are often larger and more robust, making them suitable for operation on more rugged layouts.
Key Differences
Key Differences
Scale model trains have some differences to their American Flyer counterparts. Scale trains have smaller wheel flanges, different wheels, and different style couplers. This means, that while you can run a scale train on an American Flyer layout, you can not interconnect the cars and engines from the two without adaptation.
Scale model trains have some differences to their American Flyer counterparts. Scale trains have smaller wheel flanges, different wheels, and different style couplers. This means, that while you can run a scale train on an American Flyer layout, you can not interconnect the cars and engines from the two without adaptation.
How They Interact
How They Interact
American Flyer and scale trains can run on American Flyer track, however, American Flyer trains can not run on scale track that is under 1/8" tall. This means that they need a track that is Code 125 in order to run due to the size of the wheel flanges. There are a variety of track manufactures that have taken this into consideration and will allow both American Flyer and scale trains to run on them.
American Flyer and scale trains can run on American Flyer track, however, American Flyer trains can not run on scale track that is under 1/8" tall. This means that they need a track that is Code 125 in order to run due to the size of the wheel flanges. There are a variety of track manufactures that have taken this into consideration and will allow both American Flyer and scale trains to run on them.
S Scale trains are often detailed and focused on realism. They offer smaller wheels and wheel flanges and can run on shorter track than American Flyer trains. Along with smaller wheels, they have more realistic sized couplers. Many scale trains can be converted to Hi-Rail operation by changing the wheels and couplers so that they are compatable with American Flyer trains.
S Scale trains are often detailed and focused on realism. They offer smaller wheels and wheel flanges and can run on shorter track than American Flyer trains. Along with smaller wheels, they have more realistic sized couplers. Many scale trains can be converted to Hi-Rail operation by changing the wheels and couplers so that they are compatable with American Flyer trains.
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