When the HO Scale Model Railroad was first introduced in the United Kingdom during the 1930s, it didn’t quite have a reception. The HO Scale Model Railroad was unsuited for an already thriving English market of OO Scale Model Railroads; likewise it also proved unsuitable for modeling British locomotives. Suffice to say, the introduction of the HO Scale Model Railroad to an already OO Scale Model dominated region serve only to realize the many incompatibilities the scale models have.

Contrastingly however the HO Scale Model Railroads became very popular in the United States and in continental Europe. In these regions, especially in the United States, the interest of model railroading were still as toys until around 1950’s when model railroading interest took off in another direction, as a serious hobby. And though Lionel, LLC already introduced the OO Scale Model, the HO Scale Model Railroad was more than well received.

Many enthusiasts see the HO Scale Model Railroad as the most balanced gauge, in the “middle of the road” category. It has small enough size to allow for elaborate railroad track layouts while still consuming reasonable space. With its size, it’s less expensive than bigger scale modes yet accommodate enough detail for even the finest model detail, without becoming hackneyed expensive. Lesser exacting manufacturing than smaller scale models means a generally cheaper item. Those who’d want details on their locomotive models will be pleased to know that the HO Scale Model Railroad accommodates the best degree of detail respective of its size and value. Yet another reason is the resultant price when you have an already large audience, it becomes somewhat cheaper. Succinctly, the HO Scale Model Railroad is the cheapest model railroad scale.

So prevalent was the demand for HO Scale Model Railroad in the United States that even restricted manufacturers of other gauges began producing model railroads in the HO Scale Model –in order to stay afloat. American Flyer and Lionel Corporation, both OO exclusive manufacturers, began manufacturing trains in the HO Scale.

Currently, the HO Scale Model is the most established scale in model railroading, with the exception in Great Britain, where OO Scale is solidly established. The HO Scale Model Railroad exists in Great Britain though, and resources for the scale can still be acquired in the UK. A society of HO Scale Model Railroad users even exists, known as the British 1:87 Scale Society, and caters to the needs of fellowmen wanting to get in on the model railroading scale mainstream. 

Here are some other links we recommend:

Greenberg's Guide to Lionel Ho Trains

Learn all abou the history and

the amazing history of this train.
www.amazon.com