HO scale popularity over the years has made it one of the most sought after model train Layout. There are different levels and types of HO scale out there. As a beginner, you can find it difficult to choose the best HO scale that is most suitable for you. Discussed below are the top 10 best HO scale model train layout that you should consider when getting started with HO scale.
1. Relaxed Freight Shunting Layout for HO
4′ by 8′ railway for HO Trains
The picture of the layout below is a precise layout for running medium to small model trains. The 4’ by 8 pike layout below is a perfect blueprint for relaxed curves and a natural fit for Docksider design and perfect for 0-6-0. Freight operation with interchange can be achieved at the bottom area which would be an excellent expansion for an existing freight railway.
The upper right and the spur at lower center uses the #4 or the #6 type Switches and apart from that, standard HO switches are used in this layout. |
2. Oval & Siding Layouts for HO
4′ by 8′ Layouts for Basic Operation of HO Trains
The layout here has an added advantage of expansion which can be easily done by connecting the extensions. The beauty of it is that its’ simple operations can be made challenging by few switches and track turn inclusion. The oval and siding HO layout of 4′ by 8′ basic operation Layouts below is a simple type enjoyed by many.
In this basic oval of track, standard HO switches allow small spur and long passing sidings. You should also know that choosing an extension in this layout, the spur will be needed. This layout is popular with those who enjoy simple operations. |
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More switches can do all this. Our sidings are now connected on the lower left, and we have a new spur on the lower right. Oval are two sets of sidings inside the original. You can easily add an extension to the bottom, right or left as well as enjoy more continuous running and switching work. |
3. HO Switching Layouts
5′ by 8′ Layouts with plenty of switching action
These two layouts are unique. They have two separate railways at the bottom they interchange in the yard. While able to stand alone, our layouts can also be made as extensions for an existing pike. Illustrated here is one of the many possibilities. Both layouts are paradise the fan of freight operations which entail switching work. These layouts require 5′ by 8′. That extra foot of depth makes all the difference!
This layout is two systems that bisect via the crossover at the right and at the bottom of the yard is an interchange. The scenario here depicts how mountains are used to create visual distance between the lower section and the upper section and also shows how the tunnel can be used to reach the spur. |
Sidings are removed to aid a loop for continuous running through the outer rail or the upper. Then interfaces with the inner line through the yard at the bottom. |
4. Classic HO Loop & Siding Layouts
Two 4′ by 8′ Layouts
This classic type of layout has been in existence since switches were first built for electric trains. Four standard switches are used to make passing sidings at either end of the layout, while a fifth switch makes a long siding. An extension to the layout can also be a link to the siding.
#4 or #6 switches can as well be used to make even more sidings at the bottom. To make an inner oval with sidings inside, the complex version will have to make use to three standard switches. The simple layouts of this type have been popular for few reasons reason. They are good bases from which to expand and can be great on its own. |
If you are a fan of O-Gauge trains, we have an excellent article that selects the 10 Best O-Gauge Starter Train Sets for Beginners.
5. Long Semi-Dogbone Type Layouts
4′ by 12′ HO layout
This basic layout is a combination of circular and linear motion which uses 22″ radius curves
This layout uses 18″ curves with a second line inside the first. |
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#4 switches in the above picture connect the two lines, allowing access and digress from either direction. |
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6. Long Pierside Railway Layouts for HOTwo 4′ by 10′ layouts for realistic waterfront operationsLong per side model train layout is a bit complex for beginners but it has some cool features that will make it worth your while. 7. Basic 4′ by 8′ Oval Layout With Siding for HOSimple layout – great base for expansionThis is a common and simple layout type that can be found in all scales. It allows simple two-train operation with blocks, it also allows siding work and switching. It is very basic; it is a perfect layout for illustrating how it can be extended. The layout is on a 4′ by 8′ board, it makes use of standard switches and sectional HO track with 18″ curves. the images below are some types of basic 4′ by 8′ Oval Layout With Siding for HO
8. Point to Point Layout for HO4′ by 8′ layout with an added independent lineThis layout is a little, beautiful and a medium size scale. It represents a specialized and small railway. Below, the added independent line can be seen working. It ranges from mine to industrial line interchanging at the upper right with the railway. You can do so many things on this layout theme and scenery.
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9. Large L-Shaped Layouts for HO
12″ by 8″ Shelf-Type Layouts
If you don’t have wide space for your layout, shelf layout is a very good option to consider. The length of the layout is not more than 2-foot distance to the wall. A wider space is only needed at the end of the loops. You can get enough continuous runs in a narrow space.
This is a basic loop to loop. It extends 40 to 42 inches at the loops from the wall. In between, it has a passing siding. |
Here, a passing siding is added to the inside of the loop. |
You can add a different spurs, siding, and lines inside the loop. |
10. 2′ by 12′ Shelf Layout for HO
Switching railway for narrow spaces
This layout uses many switches and a crossover. It gives the opportunity to run trains where there is little space. Most of the sidings can handle big locomotives. Only a few can handle medium and smaller locomotives. You would be using the medium to small locomotives unless you include a locomotive servicing facility in your layout. This type of layouts will enable you to enjoy HO model railroading regardless of the space.
Images: thortrains.net/poorhoa.html
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