Kato

Active

Country: United States (US)
Founded: 1986
HQ: Schaumburg, Illinois, United States
Employees: <25
Parent: Sekisui Kinzoku Co., Ltd. (Tokyo, Japan)

Indexes

Model Trains Scale Modelling

Overview

Kato USA is a manufacturer of precision model railroad equipment specializing in N and HO scale products. The company produces ready-to-run locomotives, rolling stock, and track systems known for high detail and craftsmanship. Kato is recognized as a leading manufacturer in the model railroad hobby community, serving both hobbyists and collectors with a focus on North American prototypes.

History

Kato was founded in 1957 as Sekisui Kinzoku Company in Tokyo, Japan by Yuji Kato. Kato USA was established as a U.S. subsidiary in 1986, releasing its first North American locomotive model (the GP38-2 in N-Scale) in 1987. The company has since become known for precision railroad products and developed UNITRACK, a modular track system with integrated roadbed. All research and development for North American products and customer service operations are handled from the Schaumburg, Illinois facility.

Product Lines

Product Line	Positioning	Price Range
N-Scale Models	Precision locomotives and rolling stock in smaller scale	$80 - $400
HO-Scale Models	Detailed locomotives and rolling stock in larger scale	$120 - $600
UNITRACK	Modular track system with integrated roadbed	$30 - $200
Starter Sets	Complete beginner-friendly train sets	$150 - $400
Track Accessories	Rail joiners, power supplies, and track components	$10 - $150

Manufacturing

All Kato products are manufactured in Japan. Research and development of North American products, along with sales, distribution, and customer service, are performed at the Schaumburg, Illinois facility.

Notable Products

GP38-2 Locomotive (N-Scale) - Kato's first North American model released in 1987, establishing the brand in the U.S. market
UNITRACK System - Patented modular track system featuring nickel-silver rail, integrated roadbed, and snap-together UNIJOINERS
GE C44-9W Locomotive (N-Scale) - Modern N-scale engine known for quiet operation and consistent electrical pickup
Shinkansen Bullet Train Models - Japanese prototype models for the domestic market representing high-speed rail technology

Reputation

Kato is widely respected in the model railroad community for producing high-quality, detailed models with excellent operational characteristics. The brand is particularly praised for quiet-running N-scale locomotives, reliable electrical pickup, and the innovative UNITRACK system. Modelers value Kato's craftsmanship and attention to detail, though the brand commands premium pricing compared to some competitors. The company maintains strong reputation for customer service and product reliability among serious hobbyists and collectors.

Sources (6)