There are many types of model trains, but the HO model train is one that that has a rather interesting history. First of all, the train is called HO because of it's 1:87 scale. 1:87 is actually half the size of the 0 scale train, and they were created to help ease the financial stress of the great depression. In other words, they were an alternative to the 00 gauge, but as with many products the 00 was firmly rooted in the UK market, making it the most preferred model.
That being the case, it would be nearly impossible for the HO to make any headway, but in the 1950's something happened. In the United States of America people began to see the use of model railroads and what was once considered a mere toy was now the subject of great interest. People wanted more detail in their railroad scenery, and that would require the use of the HO scale train.
When it comes to scenery, size is everything. You need to have room to place that scenery, and you need to make sure it is scaled properly. This is not always entirely easy to do, but make no mistake: with the right train, anything is possible. It wasn't long before the HO scale trains took over the 0 scale trains completely, or at least in America.
While the 00 scale is still quite popular in Britain, the majority of North America has indeed adopted the HO model train, making it one of the things America can claim as their own. As with all model trains, the HO scale is available in many different themes, colors, and functionality. Many people will choose a steam powered model, and just as many will choose DCC control. DCC control is preferable among many train enthusiasts due to the extreme amounts of control that they can exercise on their model trains.
The HO model train can have vast array of scenery. You could have an industrial setting, or even a massive city. In addition to that you might choose to recreate a logging community featuring people hard at work, rivers running through the forests, and even create the illusion of a vast forest. Illusions are fairly easy to create when it comes to model trains as all you need to do is use smaller trees the further out you go with the scenery.
There are many tricks and techniques that you can use in any type of model train scenery, and these tricks are made much simpler, and much more accessible through the use of the HO model train. It's size and detail makes it a perfect candidate for realistic settings, and while it is a bit more delicate than the 00 train, it is still the most widely preferred in America. If you're ready for a realistic experience with a reliable train, then check out the HO model train, this is one investment that you won't be sorry about.