Model trains have many different sizes, these are called scales which means how big the train is in comparison to the real thing and gauge which is a measure of the distance between each rail of the track.In the US a trains o scale is 1/48th the size of the real life train it is designed on. In Europe the scale is 1/45th the size and in the UK it is 1/43.5th the size of the original.
O Scale are the second biggest train size and one of largest that are built and run indoors. O Scale Trains are great because they are big enough to have qualities that smaller trains may lack. For a start the detail is better on O scale trains than on smaller scales due to obvious reasons. They are easier to handle and maintain as the parts are bigger and less fiddly. And they are more durable and reliable due to the fact that the moving parts dont have to be as intricate than smaller models.
Having said all of this Trains O Scale can easily be run indoors. And a layout built for a set doesn't have to be huge.
O Scale train track can be complicated because they come in two versions. One with two rails on the track and another with three rails. The one with three rails is not as common as the two rail version but has been around for a very long time.
The thing you must keep in mind is this. A locomotive either runs on a three rail track or a two rail track, they are NOT interchangable. So when buying your locomotives make sure you get one that is compatible with your track. As this is a power issue it has no effect at all on your passenger or freight cars or anything for that matter that doesn't pull anything (Rolling Stock).
Trains O Scale and model railroading in general have had a bit of a renaissance recently. Never before has there been so many people with their own sets. This means that there are plenty of new models being made all of the time and these new models are built to a very good quality. The other good thing is that there is plenty of second hand trains for sale. With sites like ebay you can pick up a steal on Locomotives, rolling stock and track.
I hope this has clarified any points people may have had and saved people time and money possibly buying the wrong things.
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Happy Railroading
Alex
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