Hey guys
I tore down my layout back in February , I had had a 4X8 for close to 5 years, needless to say it had become very boring at the end of that. anyways I want to start a new layout nad dont know what track I should start with I model in HO. I have been away from the forum for a few months now and have noticed alot of new people here. its good to see
Talk to you guys later
Jeremy
Welcome back Jeremy (play the welcome back Kotter theme song in your head)
I guess it depends on your budget and what compromises you’re willing to make. Other than hand laying rail, Micro Engineering seems to be the most popular for best looking commercial flex track. Walthers (made by Shinohara), Shinohara, Peco, and Atlas code 83 follow. Precision Scale makes flex track but not matching turnouts. You can find codes 100, 83, 75, 70 and 55 (not in all brands though)
Then there is sectional track with plastic road bed. Atlas True-Track, Bachmann E-Z Track, Life-Like Power-Loc and Kato Unitrack.
Atlas no longer makes brass track. Nickel-Silver is best.
I’ve always wondered myself what the tangible difference is between, say, Atlas flex track and Shinohara.
Speaking of Precision Scale’s track they say that the have both straight and curved flex track. What’s the difference? I thought flex track was either both? It also says the the curved flex is “elevated” does that mean super elevated? Just curious!
Personally, I use Atlas code 83 flex track and put the savings on Shinohara fancy track work (turnouts, slip switches, etc.) Also, N gauge ground throws (Caboose Industries) for HO switches [where practical] save enough $ to buy quality switch machines (Tortoise). Cork roadbed can be purchased in bulk at Ace Hardware (and others) skimming a little more off high hobby shop prices. Good luck and happy rails to you.
I use atlas. good luck.