What are “large scale” trains?
Generally large scale trains are 4 ¾ inch, 1/12 scale, 7 ¼ and 7 ½ gauge, 1/8 scale, ride on trains. Grand scale trains generally start about 12 inch gauge. A point of reference is are you riding on top of the train (large scale) or are you riding inside the cars and locomotives (grand scale). Rocky Mountain Rails has dual gauge 4 ¾ inch and 7 ½ gauge track on the layout. The 7 ¼ gauge, 1/8 scale, ride on trains are most commonly found on the east coast of the United States.
How much does large scale locomotive and railroad cars cost?
Prices for locomotives generally range between $1,500 to $15,000 and riding cars price from $500 to $5,000.
Where can I buy large scale train equipment?
One of the most popular websites is DiscoverLiveSteam.com ( Locomotives For Sale ). Locomotives and riding cars are produced locally by BACKYARD TRAIN Co. ( Backyard Train Co. ) Occasionally, members of Rocky Mountain Rails have equipment for sale and send announcements of the items for sale to other club members via email. Other places to look for large scale trains are eBay and craigslist and “For Sale” listings on large scale train websites.
