Scales & Gauges

Gauge

The distance between the inside edges of the rails on model railroad track.

Full Definition

Gauge specifically refers to the distance between the rails, measured from inside edge to inside edge. This is distinct from scale, though the terms are often confused. Standard gauge in the real world is 4 feet 8.5 inches; different model scales represent this with different track gauges (HO uses 16.5mm, N uses 9mm, etc.).

Examples

•HO gauge track has rails 16.5mm apart
•Narrow gauge modeling might use HO scale trains on N gauge track

Tips & Best Practices

Gauge must be consistent across your layout for trains to operate

Related Terms

Scale

The proportion ratio between a model and its real-world prototype.

Narrow Gauge

Railroads with track gauge narrower than standard gauge (4 feet 8.5 inches), often modeled in various scale/gauge combinations.

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