traindavid posted:I like the fact that you started out with noting that going Scale or Hi-Rail is not a better or worse, just a choice in what one wants to do. I think it really depends on what era you want to model. If you're going towards the steam era, or even the steam & early diesel period, you will have lots more selection with Hi-Rail. There's also a lot more track choices ranging from ACG tinplate track to FasTrack and flex track options too. If you're doing modern period, at this time, you will find more variety for that time period in Scale manufacturers.
I don't want to be argumentative, but I don't agree with your statements. It heavily depends on your perspective and what you like. If you like AF, then yeah there are a lot of variations of the same steam engines out there. But if you like scale models AF engines probably aren't going to cut it. Also, there is a much wider variety of different steam engines that has been made in S scale. Fewer numbers for sure, but more variety if that is important. Then there is the topic of track... Scale turnouts available from a few different mfgs. in a variety of sizes and styles. Far more than are available in Hi Rail. Since Tom quit making his turnouts I am not aware of a numbered Hi-Rail turnout, just radiused curve replacement turnouts. Those make for nasty 'S' curves when you try to make cross-overs or parallel siding. Of course
I'm not trying to argue opinions here. I believe what I said to be fact. You can check me if you like by spending some time researching on the NASG.org site.
Let's make sure we are giving the new folks facts not opinions and let them make their own minds up.
