HO Trains – The Most Popular Scale Model Trains.

March 18, 2024

Since its inception in the early 20th century, HO scale trains have been a favorite of hobbyists with their intricate designs and realistic features. The history of HO trains is a fascinating journey that mirrors the evolution of model railroading itself.

The origins of HO trains can be traced back to the 1930s when the German toy company Märklin introduced their “00” scale, which later became known as HO (Half O) scale. This scale was approximately half the size of the popular O scale, making it more suitable for smaller layouts while still allowing for detailed models.

However, it wasn’t until the 1950s that HO trains gained widespread popularity in the United States. The post-World War II economic boom fueled a surge in interest in model railroading, and HO scale quickly became the preferred choice for hobbyists due to its affordability and versatility.

During this time, several American manufacturers, including Lionel and Athearn, began producing HO scale trains, further driving the popularity of the scale. These early models were often made of die-cast metal and featured simple designs compared to the highly detailed models available today.

Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, HO trains continued to evolve, with manufacturers introducing more realistic features such as improved detailing, working lights, and digital control systems. The introduction of computer-aided design (CAD) technology further revolutionized the hobby, allowing for even greater precision in model production.

Today, HO scale remains the most popular choice among model railroaders worldwide. Its 1:87 scale ratio provides a perfect balance between detail and space efficiency, making it ideal for creating intricate layouts in relatively small spaces.  HO has not only become popular for railroad hobbyist but also is the favorite scale for the Christmas season with themes like the Santa Express, The Polar Express and the Hogwarts Express.