Please recommend scale to start up with. I have two grandsons, 4 and 5 years old, that will also be active in using the new set.
Thanks.
I would suggest, in view of the ages of the children involved, Lionel O-27. Granted it is pricy, but they’ll be big enough to impress them and be nearly kid proof! Just resist the temptation to get some thing you like. Take the crumb crunchers along to a hobby shop with you if you can and watch their eyes! They’ll tell you what they like!
I find the best scale to be S. It’s large enough to build with, but small enough to have a layout. If this is to be a hobby for you go the scale route. If this is primarily for something to share with your grandsons then go hirail. See this site http://www.trainweb.org/crocon/sscale.html for more info.
Enjoy
Paul
I will also suggest O-27. You can readily purchase equipment from companies such as Lionel that is large enough and “tough” enough for smaller hands. I will never forget my first Lionel set. The new track system from Lionel is a lot better than the older stuff. There are also many great accessories available.
Having grown up with Lionel O Gauge 3 rail track and then after my Navy stint switching to 2 rail HO, I would also recommend the 3 rail track. O27 track is not as rugged as the heavier O gauge but will stand up well.
S Gauge is 2 rail; reversing loops are difficult in 2-rail even for adults; it’s a show-stopper for kids without adult supervision and sooner or later they will want to have them with the exciting ‘corn-field meets’.
Art
Like most people (or so it seems) I started with 027 (3-rail). It took a lot of abuse, was easy to handle and set up, big enough that losing small pieces wasn’t a problem, and quite durable (a most important feature!).
Try posting this, and all toy or model railroad questions on the Model Railroad forum. This is a forum for real trains.
Good luck.