G Scale Model Trains

Interpretation of the Model Train Scales

So, what are g scale model trains and how does this scale differ from other train scales? To start with, it is worth mentioning that model trains are manufactured in a variety of different sizes. This size is usually given as a ratio of the life size. For instance, Z scale model trains have a ratio of 1:220 of actual train size. This ratio is 1:660 for the N scale and 1:48 for the O scale. Now while the O scale is huge going by model trains standards, the G scale, with a ratio of 1:22.5, easily dwarfs the O scale models. G scale trains are more than twice as big as the O model trains!

Why are the trains known as G scale trains?

Given that the g scale trains were developed in German, it is only fitting for them to have a prefix pointing to their heritage. The G denoting these trains was taken from the German word gros, which means “big” in English and not from the fact that the trains are mainly found in gardens. However, many rail enthusiasts do refer to the g scale trains as garden scale, for the very reason that these trains of this scale are often outside in gardens, where there is more space to run them.

What Makes G scale trains so Popular?

Model trains enthusiasts and collectors differ on the best scale of model trains. Those who opt for smaller model trains argue that the workmanship and details are more related to the real thing. Smaller scale model trains have a better resemblance to “real” trains. Another thing about small sized model trains is that their parts are readily available and can be obtained from different manufacturers. These trains also do not require big modeling space, thus making them ideal to display in various settings. To top up this list, smaller trains are less expensive than the big sized trains.

However, big trains like the garden model trains share a single size track, #1 gauge. And one only requires a few cars on the train to have a great visual effect.

Large trains, especially the garden trains, are built to withstand harsh out-door weather conditions including downpours and heavy snow. This durability allows the trains to remain in good working order even in foul weather.

G Scale Model Train

The history of the g scale model trains can be traced back to the late 60’s to a German engineer known as Ernst Paul Lehmann. These trains were first introduced to the world by a company known as Lehmann Gross Bahn. The company is based in Nuremberg, German and referred to by many as the “Lehmann Big Railway.”

LGB had struck gold with the g scale model trains. These model trains proved to be so popular that within a short time, they had become the most popular brands in the model trains category across Europe. This was so successful that the idea of g scale trains, or garden trains as they are sometimes called, got exported to other continents. The garden train frenzy was particularly well received in North America and Canada.

However, even with the popularity of the model railroading, Ernst Paul Lehmann, the brain child behind the g trains, ran into financial difficulties and had to sell of part of its business. The business was sold to another model train manufacturing company known as Marklin which started a manufacturing line for the garden trains in 2007. Another company, Walthers, holds the g train distribution franchise in North America after taking over Ernst Paul Lehmann’s distribution subsidiary.