What size stone should I use for my Scale?

What size is appropriate for your scale?  We don’t list scales on our packaging for many reasons.  First of all, what is it being used for?  If you are looking for ballast for HO, that doesn’t help someone in miniatures looking for landscaping stone for 1/4 inch scale.  Our products are being used for model railroads, dollhouses, warhammer, farm dioramas, and many other hobbies.  Even within a particular hobby, such as the model railroads, the stone could be used for ballast, landscaping, rooftops, loads or even building roads.

Here is some information that could help you decide what size you need for your particular application.

What are the screen sizes used?  The screens we use will produce particles in the following ranges and are listed by the size (grades) that we use on our labels.

Ultra Fine Grade < .033″

Very Fine Grade .033″ – .062″

Fine .062″ – .125″

Coarse .125″ – .25″

Which one is appropriate for ballast on my model railroad?

The following calculations are based on a “real life” stone size of 2″.  These are only suggestions and the final decision on what looks good to you is entirely up to you.

N scale = .01″            Ultra Fine

HO scale = .02″        Ultra Fine

S Scale = .03″            Ultra Fine – Very Fine

O scale = .04″            Very Fine

1:35 Scale = .06         Very Fine – Fine

G Scale = .09             Fine

Again, these are only suggestions.  We have found that most people don’t use the “accurate” grade for their scale.  For instance, many HO scale modelers prefer to use Very Fine for their ballast because they find it more pleasing to the eye.  We want you to find what works best for you.

Another suggestion is to use two different sizes in your ballast.  Use a larger size for falling down away from your tracks and a smaller size for in-between the rails with just a small amount of the larger size in-between as well.  This will give your track bed a more realistic look.

How about top dressing or using different colors in different areas?  Real railroads go back and top dress as the rock wears down and they re-level the track.  Many times, the top-dressed stone is a different color than the base.  Railroads will use what is local and convenient, so different areas will also have different colors.  I hope this helps you decide what will work best for you.

Check out our facebook page for more ideas.