S-Scale/Gauge Model Trains Part 1

In this three part article series I am going to be talking to you about the S-scale or the S-gauge model train. This is a model train thats scale is 1:64 in size. It's popular because it fits between the HO and O model train scales. It can meet the requirements on a scale which is larger then the HO scale, which is considered too small for many hardcore model train fanatics.

It is how ever smaller then the O scale for model trains, which is good because it allows your track layouts to be laid out in a smaller area of space. As we all know, space can be at a premium when it comes to model trains and having space around the home. There is nothing more annoying then having a vision for your model train layout but not having enough room to implement it.

The S-gauge series of model trains has been around for nearly 100 years, but it did not really become popular until the creation of the re designed American Flyer model of trains. These were first produced by a company called A C Gilbert. They were based in Connecticut in the USA in the mid 1930's. Funnily enough it was one of the companies that was not hit hard by the recession, which just goes to prove how crazy we model railroaders really are!

The American Flyer model train, the train that has become so popular started its life out as a clockwork model train. It then became later an electric train. At this point it was dramatically redesigned to fit its new power mode. Gilbert's design for the new American Flyer was a huge hit. The American Flyer and the model trains build by A C Gilbert were built on the S-scale, how ever they ran on the O-gauge tracks which were standard at that time.

A decade or so later, A C Gilbert changed it up again. They designed and re designed it. They re designed the tracks for the S-scale model trains. Taking it away from the more traditional 3 track rails which were the ones used in the electric model trains of the day.