Scales & Gauges

Narrow Gauge

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

Full Definition

Narrow gauge railroads use track with rails closer together than standard gauge, typically 3 feet, 2 feet, or meter gauge. These railroads were cheaper to build and could navigate tighter terrain. In modeling, narrow gauge is represented by using a smaller track gauge than normal for a given scale - for example, HOn3 uses HO scale equipment on N gauge (9mm) track to represent 3-foot gauge prototype railroads. Narrow gauge modeling has a devoted following and offers unique prototype appeal.

Examples

•The Denver & Rio Grande Western was a famous 3-foot narrow gauge railroad
•On30 uses O scale trains on HO gauge track

Tips & Best Practices

Narrow gauge allows tighter curves and more dramatic scenery

Related Terms

Gauge

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

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