The term "scale" is misleading, as the
actual scale / size of the locomotives, coaches and wagons vary from
track to track. There is no formal definition but "G Scale" was started by
the German firm of Lehmann in the 1960s, with a trade name of LGB (which
means the Lehmann Big Railway), G scale is essentially the modelling of narrow
gauge railways on 45mm wide track (the same as Gauge 1 but with a heavier
profile).
As far a "Scale" is concerned popular
scales used are 1:20.3, 1:22.5, 1:24 and 1:29 although there are considerable
variations. The quality and variety of LGB products is almost legendary and
such has been their success that many other manufacturers have entered the
market, including Playmobil in Germany, Bachmann in the USA and a host of
smaller firms in the UK.
G Scale products are generally:-
long-lasting, reliable and weather-proof, making them ideal for garden operation.
It is even alleged that an elephant can stand on the track without damaging
it. Not many of us have tried that! Some modellers run their stock straight
from the box, others build from kits, still others build from scratch using
metal or plastic materials.
For more information about "G Scale"
visit the G Scale Society website - see our
Web Links page. |
