The S- scale, or the S- gauge, has the 1:64 ratio, which is also equivalent to 3/16 inch is to 1 foot. It is larger than the usual HO scale; but, smaller than the O scale. This type of measurement allows track layout to be made in smaller spaces.
S- gauge model trains have been around since the early times. However, they made a breakthrough in the market only when the re- designed American Flyer model trains, which were the product of The A. C. Gilbert Company in Connecticut, USA, surfaced in the 1930s. These designs started out as clockwork model trains, and eventually became electric trains. They were patterned from the S- scale; but, they ran on O- gauge tracks.
A few years later, Gilbert made other modifications, and introduced a re- design of the tracks for the S- scale trains. He stopped using traditional three track rails at that time.
The three rack rail made use of two outer tracks for the wheels to go on with the third, center track. These tracks were where the electric current ran to provide power to the model train motor. Compared to the other and previous models, this one looked the most realistic. Aside from these tracks fitting smaller S- scale model trains, these tracks also had curves with a different radius, which was more suitable to American Flyer’s locomotives and rolling stock.
A lot of aficionados of the S- scale were introduced to this American Flyer design when they were given to them as Christmas presents. At that time, Flyer and Lionel were the two companies that were competing as the company that had the better model trains.
Whether or not they are a product of American Flyer, S- scale model trains are becoming popular again, especially with the kids.
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