Amfleet25124 posted:Question on the venerable 4x8 on why there are so many in the hobby (in all scales) against it. There are already endless discussions on the internet that say it takes up too much space in the room, the plywood could be better used if cut into 2 foot wide strips for a switching layout, it’s too far to reach over, etc., etc., etc..
Maybe I’m missing something here, but how is that any different than a 6x10 (unless the majority of 6x10’s are in basements) which doesn’t get the same amount of flak as the 4x8? Looks like the same space eating 2 feet on all 4 sides to me. I’ve seen many photos of small to medium size layouts on the internet and magazines that have 4 or more feet of spacing against a wall with nary a mention of a cut-out for access to the rear. I’m guessing that topside creepers are used in those cases, but how is that any different for a placing a 4x8 layout against the wall?
Just like I’ve seen 6x10’s with the center cut out, I’m sure that there’s someone out there that has a 4x8 with a 2x6 center cut out to operate it.
The significant difference that I can see between the 4x8 and the 6x10 is that the 6x10 requires extra carpentry skills instead of having everything already pre-cut for you (foam, lumber, etc.) at the store. Is there a hobby elitist aspect to the hate?
I agree with the "We all started with 8' x 4"s." But as we grow smarter we realize that trains just don't continually circle. I'm getting dizzy just thinking about it. Secondly, you can get more surface and layout in an averaged sized room with better access NOT using rectangular sheets of plywood. And, the trains don't have to continuously loop. How about switching some cars around? How about delivering and picking-up? Just random thoughts...A layout will be more enjoyable if one has more to do than just watch the trains circle. I'm NOT a hater. ;-) I'm a "Let's improve our design techniques" advocate.
