1:48 scale is popular among modelers both as diecast models, plastic models made from kits, and construction toys. It is especially popular with manufacturers of model airplanes and model trains (where it is known as O scale). 1:48 is also the most popular scale among Lego enthusiasts since it is approximately the scale of the minifig (1.5 inches: 6 feet).
It is similar in size to 1:50 scale and 1:43 scale which are very popular for diecast vehicles.
Recently, Tamiya has begun to manufacture a line of military ground vehicle models in 1:48 in addition to their more traditional 1:35 scale line. This has been seen as an attempt to break into a new market since the stiff competition in the larger scale .
This is the traditional scale for Admiralty Board style models [1] and Shipyard builders models.
This scale is defined by dividing an imperial foot into 48 equal parts which gives you 1/4". So 1/4" equals one foot.