Hello all!

I have been model railroading my entire life - N, HO, O and G Scale at various times.

My father and I have constructed a number of simple layouts throughout the years and have finally decided to get "serious" with the hobby. We have constructed a large L-shaped table out of two 4'x8' boards, and plan on building a massive N Scale layout with all of the Atlas Code 80 track we've acquired over the years (I know some people are put off by Code 80, but neither of us are huge rivet-counters, though I can appreciate those who are).

A couple questions. 1. What is the minimum radius for a helix in HO scale?

2. Would a broader radius reduce drag?

I am so new to the model train industry, as far as internet. Some of the things I read here are way over my head, some of the things make perfect sense. Some of it is all too overwhelming. I know I love trains, I know I want to learn as much as I can from people with a heart to teach. My first question is coming. I presently own a Norfolk & Western Class J 611 Passenger train in HO. The space I have to work with, inside the boundaries of floor trim, is 10' x 6' x 4'. Can someone please tell me if this is adequate space for a "first" layout? 

Hi all,

I'm super new to MRR and have eyed them forever, but now am in a place where I can start this hobby, both timewise, moneywise and spacewise.

I just turned 50, so I'm not young, but at least I'm proof that "new" people do still actively join the hobby!  :)

I have purchased the materials for my first small scale tabletop layout (based on benchwork from the internet).  It will be 3' by 5'.

This layout will be quite portable and really just a "toe in the MRR water" so to speak.