The NASG has prepared a set of promotional pamphlets to help both clubs and individual members explain and promote S modeling to potential newcomers. As anyone who has been in S for a period of time knows, the different approaches to modeling in 1:64 scale can be confusing, especially for newcomers. Consequently, the focus of these new print materials is to target information carefully tailored to the interests of the individual. The result is a series of six fully-illustrated, full-color, tri-fold pamphlets. As of February 2024, a new version of the pamphlets are available, correcting some typos found in the initial releases, clarifying some of the diagrams, and other updates.
The first tri-fold pamphlet, titled "An Introduction to S MODEL RAILROADING", is an overall introduction to 1:64 modeling. It defines all three of the common approaches: Scale, Hi-Rail, and American Flyer. The second, third, and fourth tri-folds provide expanded explanations of Scale, Hi-Rail, and American Flyer, respectively. A fifth tri-fold covers narrow-gauge modeling in 1:64, and a sixth tri-fold introduces the NASG web site and briefly describes the NASG organization.
The six tri-fold pamphlets are intended to be shared with anyone interested in learning more about S modeling whether he or she is currently modeling in another scale or completely new to model railroading. Members should find out as much as possible about a modeler's area of interest and offer the appropriate tri-folds. For example, if someone is currently modeling in HO-scale, he or she should be provided the main S introduction tri-fold as well as the Scale tri-fold. If someone currently is involved in 3-rail O-scale, he or she would likely be most interested in the Hi-Rail and/or AF tri-folds. All interested newcomers should receive the Web Site tri-fold so they can explore the site on their own. The tri-folds should be used to promote further discussion because, of necessity, they contain only an introduction to the subjects. And, of course, as with all promotional efforts, the best source of information about S modeling is always NASG members themselves!
There are three ways to obtain printed copies of these Promotional Tri-fold Pamphlets:
Let's take a closer look at each of these promotional pamphlets.
It is sometimes said that the range of approaches to modeling in S is too complicated to explain and so confusing that it turns potential modelers away. This tri-fold presents a framework for describing the three major approaches to S: Scale, Hi-Rail, and American Flyer, and includes the NASG's definitions of these three terms. Also highlighted are reasons for considering S. This is a great tool for explaining the full spectrum of S to newcomers.
This tri-fold introduces the segment of S focused on collecting and operating original A.C. Gilbert American Flyer and American Flyer-compatible trains being manufactured today. The brochure includes brief descriptions of track, wheels, couplers, and major manufacturers and suppliers.
This tri-fold explains a broad spectrum of S modeling that utilizes code 125 to 148 rail sizes, and hi-rail or American Flyer wheel profiles. The brochure includes brief descriptions of track, wheels, couplers, and major manufacturers and suppliers.
This tri-fold explains S modeling that achieves the highest level of realism by using code 125 or smaller rail sizes, and code 110 profile wheels. The brochure includes brief discussions of wheels, track, product availability, manufacturers and suppliers, and power and control.
This tri-fold includes an introduction to 1:64 narrow-gauge railroading, including discussions about wheels, track, product availability, manufacturers and suppliers, and power and control.
This tri-fold provides an overview of the NASG's web site, including tips on where to start when visiting the site and how to search for content. A graphic depiction of its "Welcome" page and an explanation of the site's navigation buttons are also provided. It includes the QR code to quickly take cellphone users to the web site.