Over 20 years ago, I decided against O scale and began to work toward having an O gauge layout, because:
- O scale requires more space.
- AC is easier to work with than DC for track.
- O scale brass locomotives and cars are very expensive.
Item 1 was the most influential factor. It wasn't difficult for me to learn how to ignore the center rail and enjoy running O gauge trains. I still spent a lot of money, but have enjoyed my trains and the layout, as well as having met many friendly O gauge modelers. The trade-off was impeccably detailed equipment versus easy, low stress model railroading.