A finished S scale layout or individual model can be both visually and operationally impressive. However, getting the desired model may be somewhat harder than in a scale with more manufacturers and product offerings. As S scale modelers are quick to point out, modeling in 1:64 calls for inventiveness and perseverance. While there are ready-to-run locomotives and rolling stock covering many popular eras offered in S scale today, a large selection of previously produced items is also available on the secondary market.
For many S scale modelers, the challenge of the hunt to find a desired item or of figuring out how modify available items to get what they want is a big part of the fun of working in 1:64. Of course, some modelers will choose to scratchbuild what they need.
- The manufacturer with the largest product line of locomotives and rolling stock is American Models (AM) of Whitmore Lake, Mich. American Models has been producing S scale models since 1981 and currently lists 13 different classes of diesel locomotives and 14 styles of freight cars from multiple eras in multiple road names.
- A relative newcomer to S, ScaleTrains offers a line of hoppers, boxcars, and wide-cupola cabooses. These are built from tooling originally created by S Helper Service (SHS) and subsequently sold to MTH Electric Trains. SHS produced some of the nicest S scale equipment ever manufactured, including a wonderful 2-8-0 Consolidation. SHS products are in high demand in the secondary market.
(Click here to read Cody Grivno’s review of a ScaleTrains S gauge caboose – Ed.)
- Lionel Corp. has a line of S scale models. Though some aren’t usable by scale modelers, others are with modifications. Scale wheelsets are available for some Lionel 1:64 locomotives.
- S Scale America offers a line of rolling stock in both kit and ready-to-run form that are available through Des Plaines Hobbies.
- River Raisin Models (RRM) imported 21 different brass steam locomotives, seven diesels in 18 versions, three complete passenger trains, freight cars, cabooses, and structures from 1987 until 2022. Many of its products are still available on the secondary market.
- Likewise, Southwind Models offered an extensive line of brass locomotives and rolling stock that are among the nicest and most prototypically accurate models ever produced in S. They’re available on the secondary market.
As for structures, figures, and vehicles, there’s no shortage of any of these in S scale. The advent of laser-cut kits and 3-D printing means that many kits and detail parts previously not available in 1:64 are now available. Many HO and O scale structures can be used with S by simply replacing doors with 1:64 parts.
