Can someone explain the differences between Ho,HOn30 and HOn3?[:p]
They are all the same scale. 3.5 mm = 1 foot (1/87)
Most people model “standard” gauge 4ft 8-1/2 in between the rails. This is the gauge most used by the prototype in a large part of the world (USA, Canada, Mexico, Western Europe and probably other areas)
HOn3 represents 3ft 0in gauge in HO scale. It is somtimes called HOn36 (that is 36 inches) In the US 3ft gauge was a common guage used, but a distant second in mileage it standard gauge. While true 3ft gauge models exist, they are very few and usually expensive.
HOn30 represents 30 inch gauge in HO scale. It is also called HOn2-1/2 (2ft + 1/2 ft)
It was a common gauge for industrial railroads in the US and both industrial and “common carrier” railroads in som other parts of the world. Many Modelers like it because N scale locos modified and N scale track components can be used. Modelers use it a compromise for HO scale models of 3 ft gauge, 2ft gauge, and 30in gauge prototypes