[2] Many older N-scale models may not run well on Code 55 track as their flanges are often unrealistically large, causing the wheels to bounce along the ties instead of ride along the railhead.

Although trains and accessories of similar gauge or scale existed as early as 1927, modern commercially produced N-scale models were first launched by the Arnold company of Nuremberg in 1962.

The creation of local prototypes is now a flourishing "cottage" industry, making Australia N-scale modelling more popular each year.

A small amount of 2-foot (Nn2[1]) industrial narrow-gauge modelling in N scale using custom track is done, but suppliers of parts are few.

N-scale trains and structures are often used on HO or larger layouts to create forced perspective, or the illusion that an object is further away than it actually is.

Standards useful to both manufacturers and modellers are maintained by MOROP in Europe and the NMRA in North America.

These standards are generally the same for such elements as track gauge, scale ratio, couplings, and electrical power, and differ for clearances and other factors that are specific to the prototype being modelled.

In traditional DC control, the speed of the train is determined by the amount of voltage supplied to the rails.

This has in part been made possible by surface mount technology and new motors that draw very little current (typically 0.2 amps).

Graham Farish initially adopted a plastic flexible U rather than a spring, Peco used a compatible weighted coupler system (Elsie), and Fleischmann cunningly sidestepped the problem by using a sprung plate.

In the US, Canada, and Australia, it has been largely superseded by a more realistic-looking magnetic knuckle coupler, originally made by Micro-Trains and branded Magne-Matic.

European modellers have the option to convert the couplings on their rolling stock to the Fleischmann Profi-Coupler system for more reliable operation should they wish to do so, but most N scale rolling stock continues to be manufactured with Rapido couplers - a design which is fairly robust and easy to mold.

Nearer to scale appearance is achieved by finer rail, flange, and crossing dimensions than commercial N gauge (9 mm / 0.354 in) components.

The novelty of the "Lone Star Locos" line was such that they even found their way to the United States and were sold in the toys area of major department stores like J.J. Newberry.

The track gauge was widened to a nominal 9 mm (0.354 in) and rails were isolated with nonconductive ties (sleepers) for DC operation.

The Victorian producer Aust-N-Rail pioneered this approach, while in 2011, BadgerBits released Australia's first ready-to-run N gauge locomotive, a 48 class retailing for around A$240.

Other kits continue to be released using the more usual method of resin-based castings and it is now possible obtain models of railways running in most states, although the coverage is highly variable.