N Scale Starter Sets

Due to the size relationship, N scale takes up one fourth the tabletop area required for HO - that's a lot! A 4x8 layout in N (32 sq ft) would have to be 8x16 (128 sq ft) in HO to have the same modeling space. With today’s dwindling space, N scale provides a lot of railroading in a small space without breaking the budget.

With all things considered (engine quality, detail desired, layout size, reliability, etc) I believe track reliability is key. Over the years I’ve met many model railroaders who lost interest because their trains wouldn’t run. This was almost always do to poor track or poor track laying. I always recommend Kato N Scale Unitrack (which comes with roadbed so it can be setup on a carpet) to start and you’ll never have track problems. It is sectional track, so it is very easy for the chief engineer of any age to redesign his layout as inspiration dictates. Further, with Kato’s range of radii in curved track, the designer can produce almost any serpentine curves envisioned. The March 2010 issue of Model Railroader magazine (the current issue on stands now) describes their 4x9 N scale layout track laying step and clearly explains the editor’s decision to use Unitrack.

Therefore, I prefer the Kato sets because I like their Unitrack. They have sets with just track or complete sets with track, an engine, cars and power supply. As noted in above posts, if the track isn't the best, your trains won't run. No fun in that, regardless of the quality of the locos. Unfortunately, as sets go, the Kato sets are expensive.

Therefore, when I set up a newcomer with a set, I put it together from parts in inventory. I recommend a Unitrack layout (since it's sectional track, they can easily compliment the set with sections to make it as big as they have room for) and then offer engines and cars with a whole range of prices and quality. This approach provides a starter “set” that has great track and, with lower priced rolling stock, can start as low as $60 with a power supply, an engine and a few cars.

Another plus for N scale is that all the engines, freight cars and passenger cars come in storable, stackable jewel cases. Until you have a real train room where you can keep the collection on display, you can establish a habit of putting the trains away when you disassemble the layout and store the rolling stock in their original boxes. Many used collections on the market come with the cars still stored in those boxes. This definitely helps the collection retain its value.

And, as can be seen by my previous post, even boys 6 to 10 can handle the smaller size.

Although there are some great bargains with track from other manufacturers, if you start with Kato Unitrack, you’ll have more fun running trains. And regardless of the cost of the engines you add, your trains will always run.

As a last note, many NTrak modules come with Kato Unitrack sections to be used between the modules so they can be reconnected at a show and provide electrical reliability.