View source for N scale

{{Short description|Modelling scale of 1:160, 1:150 (Japan), 1:148 (UK)}}
{{about|the model railway track size|the handheld video game system/mobile telephone|N-Gage (device)}}
{{use dmy dates|date=May 2020}}
{{Infobox model rail scale
| name = N scale
| image_filename =Bachmann-2-6-6-2withPencil.jpg
| image_caption = A [[Bachmann Industries]] N-scale model of a [[Chesapeake and Ohio Railway]] H-5 class [[2-6-6-2]] [[Mallet locomotive]], shown alongside a pencil for size
| widthpx =300px
| scale=
| ratio = {{ubl|1:148 (United Kingdom)|1:150 (Japan)|1:160 (elsewhere)}}
| gauge = {{track gauge|9mm}}
| prototype_gauge =[[Standard gauge]]
}}

'''N scale''' is a popular [[model railway]] scale.<ref name=S-1.2>{{cite web| url=https://www.nmra.org/sites/default/files/standards/sandrp/pdf/S-1.2%202009.07.pdf| title=NMRA Standards: S-1.2 Standards for Scale Models| date=July 2009| website=NMRA.org| publisher=National Model Railroad Association| access-date=3 May 2020}}</ref> Depending upon the manufacturer (or country), the scale ranges from 1:148 to 1:160.  Effectively the scale is 1:159, 9&nbsp;mm to {{Track gauge|1435mm}}, which is the width of [[Standard-gauge railway|standard gauge]] railway.  However the scale may vary to simulate [[Broad-gauge railway|wide]] or [[Narrow-gauge railway|narrow-gauge]] rail. In all cases, the ''gauge'' (the distance between the rails) is {{track gauge|9mm|disp=or}}. The term '''N ''gauge''''' refers to the track dimensions, but in the United Kingdom in particular [[British N gauge]] refers to a 1:148 scale with 1:160 ({{track gauge|9mm|disp=or}}) track gauge modelling. The terms N scale and N gauge are often inaccurately used interchangeably, as scale is defined as ratio or proportion of the model, and gauge only as a distance between rails. The scale 1:148 defines the rail-to-rail gauge equal to 9&nbsp;mm exactly (at the cost of scale exactness), so when calculating the rail or track use 1:160 and for engines and car wheel base use 1:148.

All rails are spaced 9&nbsp;mm apart but the height can differ. Rail height (in thousandths of an inch) is expressed as a "code": thus, Code 55 rails are {{convert|0.055|in}} high while Code 80 rails have a height of {{convert|0.080|in}}.<ref name=RP-15.1>{{cite web| url=https://www.nmra.org/sites/default/files/standards/sandrp/pdf/rp-15.1.pdf| title=NMRA Recommended Practices: RP-15.1 Rail| publisher=National Model Railroad Association| website=NMRA.org| date=January 1990| access-date=May 3, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=https://mrr.trains.com/how-to/get-started/2010/01/model-railroad-track-codes-defined| title=Model railroad track codes defined| website=Model Railroader| publisher=Kalmbach Publishing| date=January 29, 2010| access-date=May 3, 2020}}</ref> Common real railroad rails are at least {{convert|6|in}} tall and can be taller on some roads, so at true scale the rails would be about {{convert|0.040|in}} high.<ref name=RP-15.1 /> Many older N-scale models may not run well on Code 55 track as their flanges are often unrealistically large, causing the wheels to bounce along the ties instead of ride along the railhead. Wheelsets with these large flanges are colloquially known as 'pizza cutters' due to a resemblance to the kitchen utensil.{{refn|group=note|It has been speculated that the term "pizza cutter" may have stemmed from the resemblance of wheels on the Lima model manufacturing company's models because Lima was an Italian company.<ref>{{cite book| url=https://books.google.com/books?id=MYt8AwAAQBAJ&dq=model+railroad+N+scale+pizza+cutter&pg=PT25| via=Google Books| page=n.p.| title=Making a Start in N Gauge Railway Modelling| first=Richard| last=Bardsley| year=2013| publisher=The Crowood Press, Ltd.| location=Ramsbury, Wiltshire, UK| format=e-book| isbn=978-1-84797-650-5}}</ref>}}

An advantage of N scale is that it allows [[hobby]]ists to build layouts that take up less space than [[HO scale]], or put longer track runs into the same amount of space, because the models are smaller (by nearly a half) than they are in HO scale (1:87).<ref>{{cite web| url=https://www.nmra.org/beginner/scales| title=Scales & More: Modeling Scales| website=NMRA.org| publisher=National Model Railroad Association| date=December 2, 2014| access-date=May 3, 2020}}</ref> While N scale is quite small, it is not the smallest commercially available scale, as  [[Z scale]] is smaller yet at 1:220 and [[T scale]] is 1:450 or 1:480. N scale is considered generally compatible with [[1:144 scale]] for [[miniature wargaming]].

== History ==
[[Image:Kato 13709-2 SBB Re 460.jpg|thumb|right|A modern [[Kato Precision Railroad Models|Kato]] model of [[Swiss Federal Railways|SBB]] [[SBB-CFF-FFS Re 460|Re 460]] electric locomotive, featuring the ubiquitous [[Arnold (models)|Arnold]] "Rapido" coupler]]
[[Image:Virginia Farmlands Rwy 2 SW8 @ Doorstown 6-17-2007.JPG|thumb|SW-8 switcher]]

Although trains and accessories of similar gauge or scale existed as early as 1927, modern commercially produced N-scale models were first launched by the [[Arnold (models)|Arnold]] company of [[Nuremberg]] in 1962.<ref>{{cite web| url=https://www.hornby.com/uk-en/shop/brands/arnold-n-1-160.html| title=The German pioneer of N gauge| website=Hornby Arnold| publisher=Hornby Hobbies| access-date=May 3, 2020}}</ref><ref name=RMC2016>{{cite web| url=http://rrmodelcraftsman.com/model-train-scale-gauge/| title=Model Train Scale and Gauge| website=Railroad Model Craftsman| publisher=White River Productions| date=December 25, 2016| access-date=May 3, 2020}}</ref> Unlike other scales and gauges, which were ''de facto'' standards at best, within two years N-scale manufacturers defined the gauge and voltage, as well as the height and type of couplers.  For example, Arnold developed the now ubiquitous "Rapido" coupler to provide a simple and robust releasable coupler design.<ref name=Smithpart2 />  Although the original Arnold coupler has been joined by more functional and aesthetically pleasing designs, Arnold allowed use of the Rapido design by other manufacturers, so established a common standard to couple together rolling stock from different sources.<ref name=Smithpart2 />

N scale has a large worldwide following. Models are made of very many standard gauge [[prototype]]s from every continent. N scale's popularity is second only to that of HO.<ref name=RMC2016 /> In Japan, where space in homes is more limited, N scale is the most popular scale, and HO scale is considered large. Not all modellers select N because they have small spaces; some use N scale to build more complex or more visually expansive models.

N scale in Australia has become more popular over the years. Modellers use mainly US, British, and European prototypes because for a long time, the Australian market had no N-scale models of local prototypes. The creation of local prototypes is now a flourishing "cottage" industry, making Australia N-scale modelling more popular each year.

N-gauge track and components are also used with larger scales, in particular [[H0e scale|H0e]] (or "HOe") and [[00-9]] scale for modelling narrow-gauge railways. N-scale models on [[Z scale|Z-scale]] track are used to model metre gauge ([[Nn3]]<ref name=S-1.2 />). A small amount of 2-foot (Nn2<ref name=S-1.2 />) industrial narrow-gauge modelling in N scale using custom track is done, but suppliers of parts are few. Nn18 layouts use [[T-scale]] track and mechanisms to represent [[minimum-gauge railway]]s. N-scale trains and structures are often used on HO or larger layouts to create forced perspective, or the illusion that an object is further away than it actually is.

== Standards ==
[[Image:Autopaxinc.jpg|right|thumb|A collection of N scale buildings and scenery]]
[[Image:Lms 4-6-0.JPG|thumb|A British model (made by PECO) of an LMS 4-6-0 'Jubilee' steam locomotive]]
[[Image:Nscaletrackforsize.jpg|right|thumb|Photo of section of N scale layout with track and a human hand shown for size comparison]]
[[Image:SP-GS4 4432.jpg|right|thumb| Close-up of N gauge Southern Pacific GS-4 #4432 by Con-cor]]

Standards useful to both manufacturers and modellers are maintained by [[MOROP]] in Europe and the [[NMRA]] in North America.  These standards are generally the same for such elements as track gauge, scale ratio, couplings, and electrical power, and differ for clearances and other factors that are specific to the prototype being modelled. The wheel and track standards are, however, slightly incompatible and most vendors follow neither standard in part because of this.

N scale locomotives are powered by [[Direct current|DC]] motors which accept a maximum of 12 V DC. In traditional DC control, the speed of the train is determined by the amount of voltage supplied to the rails. The direction of the train is determined by the polarity of the power to the rails. Since the end of the 20th century, an increasing number of enthusiasts have started using digital train control systems to determine the speed and direction of their trains. This has in part been made possible by [[surface mount]] technology and new motors that draw very little current (typically 0.2 amps). The most popular digital control systems used in N scale model railways are [[Digital Command Control|NMRA-DCC]] and [[Selectrix]].

The initial agreed-to standard coupling was known as a 'Rapido' coupler from the manufacturer ([[Arnold (models)|Arnold]]);<ref name=Smithpart2 /> this coupler had been produced under a license from TT-manufacturer Rokal.  Most companies developed their own variants of this coupler to avoid Arnold patents on the spring system. [[Graham Farish]] initially adopted a plastic flexible U rather than a spring, Peco used a compatible weighted coupler system (Elsie), and Fleischmann cunningly sidestepped the problem by using a sprung plate. All were compatible, though.

The Rapido coupler system works well, but is difficult to use for automatic uncoupling and also relatively large. In the US, Canada, and Australia, it has been largely superseded by a more realistic-looking magnetic knuckle coupler, originally made by [[Micro-Trains]] and branded Magne-Matic.<ref>{{cite web| url=https://www.micro-trains.com/index.php?_route_=magne-matic| title=Evolution of the Magne-Matic Coupler| website=Micro-Trains Line| date=2016| access-date=May 3, 2020}}</ref> The MT couplers (as they are known) are more delicate and closer to scale North American appearance than Rapido couplers. Also, they can be opened by a magnet placed under the track. Other manufacturers, such as Atlas, McHenry and Kato, are now making couplers that mate with Micro Trains couplers.

European modellers have the option to convert the couplings on their rolling stock to the [[Fleischmann (model railroads)|Fleischmann]] Profi-Coupler system for more reliable operation should they wish to do so, but most N scale rolling stock continues to be manufactured with Rapido couplers - a design which is fairly robust and easy to mold. Modern N scale stock uses a standard NEM socket for couplers which allows different coupling designs to be used by simply pulling out the old coupler and fitting a new one of a different design. In the UK, vendors are increasingly shipping both NEM sockets for couplers and buckeye (knuckle) couplers. It is also very easy to use for coupling and uncoupling.

== Variants ==
[[Image:Spur N Fleischmann NS DH2 Wattläufer 1 zu 160 und Kato Bernina Express 1 zu 150.jpg|thumb|
NS DH2 in 1:160 scale (bottom) and Kato [[Bernina Express]] in 1:150 scale (top) on 9&nbsp;mm track gauge. Size comparison with a one-euro coin]]

In the United States and Europe, models of [[standard gauge]] [{{track gauge|1435mm}}] trains are built to 1:160 scale and made so that they run on N gauge track, but in some other countries changes are made. Finescale modellers also use variants of normal N scale.

=== United Kingdom === 
In the United Kingdom, a scale of 1:148 is used for commercially produced models.

In Britain, some N-scale models are built to "2&nbsp;mm scale" for "2&nbsp;mm to the foot" which calculates to a 1:152 proportion.  Early N scale was also known as "OOO" or "treble-O"<ref>{{cite news| url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/50198566/pittsburgh-post-gazette/| title=N-Gauge Chugs Into Hobby Corners| newspaper=Pittsburgh Post-Gazette| date=October 22, 1968| page=31| first=Russ| last=Barnard| via=Newspapers.com}} {{open access}}</ref> in reference to [[O scale|O]] and [[OO gauge|OO]] and was also 1:152, though for an entirely different reason.

=== 2 mm to the foot scale ===
A number of modellers in the United Kingdom use [[2 mm scale]], a closer-to-scale standard than N scale. 2&nbsp;mm scale is scaled at 2&nbsp;mm to the foot (1:152) with a {{track gauge|9.42mm}} track gauge.  Nearer to scale appearance is achieved by finer rail, flange, and crossing dimensions than commercial N gauge ({{track gauge|9mm|disp=s}}) components.
A variation of the 2&nbsp;mm standards is used by the FiNe group for 1:160 scale. It uses the same rail, flange, and crossing dimensions as 2&nbsp;mm (1:152) standards, but with a track gauge of {{track gauge|0.353 in}}, and corresponding reduction in back-to-back. FiNe is dominated by European modellers.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nmra.org/standards/sandrp/rp-3.html| url-status=dead| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140409052355/http://www.nmra.org/standards/sandrp/rp-3.html| archive-date=9 April 2014| title=RP-3 Proto-Fine Track (Recommended practices)|publisher=[[National Model Railroad Association|NMRA]]|date=January 1990|access-date=2010-07-11|quote=named "N Fine"}}</ref>

=== OOO models ===
In 1961, [[Lone Star Toys|Lone Star]] introduced some of the first (1:160) N scale models branded as [[Lone Star Toys#Trains|Treble-0-Lectric]] (OOO) into the United Kingdom.<ref name=Smithpart2>{{cite web| url=http://davidksmith.com/postage-stamp-trains/chapter-1.htm| title=Part 1: Beginnings & Introductions| website=All About Aurora Postage Stamp Trains| first=David K.| last=Smith| access-date=May 3, 2020}}</ref><ref group="note" >As an aside on the perennial question of whether British '00' gauges use letters or numbers, Lone Star named their product the 'Treble-0-Lectric' (with a zero) yet described this as gauge 'OOO', with three letters.</ref> The original die-cast metal models were push along and gauged to run on a die-cast trackwork having a gauge that was closer to {{track gauge|8mm}}. Coupling was by a simple loop and pin arrangement.  The novelty of the "Lone Star Locos" line was such that they even found their way to the United States and were sold in the toys area of major department stores like J.J. Newberry.

Electrified models followed soon after. The track gauge was widened to a nominal {{track gauge|9mm}} and rails were isolated with nonconductive ties (sleepers) for [[Direct current|DC]] operation. Gearing between the motor and the axles at such a small scale was done by rubber bands, rather than the usual worm gear. A different coupling based on a shrunken OO scale coupling was fitted.  The OOO couplings and specifications have long since been replaced by commercial N scale manufacturers.

=== Australian N scale ===
Australian railways use several gauges across the states, although in most cases 9&nbsp;mm gauge track is used. Some modellers have used Z gauge track for Nn3 models of [[Queensland Railways]]. N scale modelling in Australia has been a cottage-industry affair, with typically small runs of resin-based models being produced. Some etch-brass kits have also been released. In most cases, the kits have been bodies designed to run on mechanisms or bogies available from overseas. Some very fine models are starting to emerge from various Australian manufacturers with many kits now available.

Manufacturers have started to engage Chinese manufacturers to produce very high quality wagons and locomotives. The Victorian producer Aust-N-Rail pioneered this approach, while in 2011, BadgerBits released Australia's first ready-to-run N gauge locomotive, a 48 class retailing for around A$240. A new manufacturer has arrived on the scene (November 2011) with Australia-N Railways using both Australian locally manufactured detail accessories and top end Chinese factories to produce their new locomotives and rolling stock. Other kits continue to be released using the more usual method of resin-based castings and it is now possible obtain models of railways running in most states, although the coverage is highly variable.

=== Japanese N scale ===
{{see also|T gauge}}
[[Image:N scale Train Scenry.jpg|right|thumb|A 1:150 scale model of a Japanese railroad diorama]]

Since the former [[Japanese National Railways]] and other major private railways adopted a track gauge of {{convert|1067|mm|ftin}}, Japanese N-scale models of conventional railways adopted 1:150 scale with 9&nbsp;mm gauge. But, in the case of Shinkansen, which adopted a {{convert|1435|mm|ftin|adj=on}} track gauge, models are scaled down to 1:160. A small number of modelers adopted a model scale of 1:120 using 9&nbsp;mm gauge tracks to represent the narrow-gauge railway {{track gauge|3ft6in}} gauge lines common in Japan. This is a different prototype gauge and scale to standard N scale with the narrower prototype gauge and called [[TT scale#Gauges|TT-9]].

== Notable layouts ==
[[Image:Ngauge-rail.jpg|thumb|right|N gauge track]]

* Wolfgang Frey's "Stuttgart Hbf" layout is a replica of the [[Stuttgart main railway station]] started in 1978. The layout features a detailed signalling system. Following Frey's death in 2012, the layout was due to be opened as a public exhibit in 2017.{{update-inline|date=December 2024}} <ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.stellwerk-s.de/| language=de| title=(home)| website=Stellwerk S}}</ref>
* The [[San Diego Model Railroad Museum]] in California, United States, houses one of the largest N-scale layouts in the world{{snd}} {{convert|1200|sqft|m2}}{{snd}} called the Pacific Desert Lines.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.sdsons.org/mis%20docs/pdl.html| title=Pacific Desert Lines| website=San Diego Society of N Scale}}</ref> It has about {{convert|33|mi|km|adj=pre|scale}} of mainline track, over 500 hand-made turnouts and models of several local landmarks,<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.sdsons.org/depot/pdlphotos2.html| title=PDL Gallery Two| website=San Diego Society of N Scale}}</ref> including the Carrizo Gorge's [[Goat Canyon Trestle]]<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.sdsons.org/mis%20docs/trestle.html| title=Goat Canyon Trestle| website=San Diego Society of N Scale}}</ref> and [[Palomar Observatory]]. The model of the Santa Fe depot was featured on the cover of ''[[Model Railroader]]'' magazine.{{cn |date=May 2025}} The layout can be operated by manual or computer control.
* The Clinchfield layout was built in 1978 by Gordon Odegard and featured in a series of articles for ''Model Railroader'' magazine. The article series was reprinted in the book ''Modelling the Clinchfield in N Scale'' by [[Kalmbach Publishing]]. The Clinchfield layout measured {{convert|6|by|13|ft|m}} and used an aluminum frame with [[styrofoam]] construction to cut down on weight. it was awarded the grand prize in a 1984 sweepstakes,{{cn |date=May 2025}} and was shown at the 2008 N Scale Collectors National Convention in [[Louisville, Kentucky]].

== See also ==
*[[Rail transport modelling scales]]
*[[NTrak]]
*[[NTrak#oNeTrak|oNeTrak]]
*[[Model railway scales]]

== Notes ==
{{Reflist|group=note}}

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

== External links ==
{{Commons category|N scale}}
* [http://free-mon.wesleysteiner.com Free-MoN]
* [https://trovestar.com/generic/group.php?Collection=4 N Scale Database]

{{DEFAULTSORT:N Scale}}
[[Category:Miniature wargames]]
[[Category:Model railroad scales]]
[[Category:Scale model scales]]