Where can I locate a piece of railroad rail about 12" long for use for fabrication.?

Question

The rail section would be perfect for my purposes (I think) but am having problems locating it.

Answer 1

Hoghead is right about the rail weights, and about where to get the rail, and especially about being in a rail yard -- be careful when working around tracks, and only be there with the permission of the owner of the yard.

Mainline rail typically weighs 139 pounds per yard, so your 12 inch section will weigh a bit over 46 pounds. But spur or yard rail might weigh only 85 or 90 pounds per yard.

Answer 2

Sorry MAXIMUS, but I believe you have it wrong.  The most common rail used for Class 1 rail road main line trackage is of the 139 pound variety, which means the the rail weighs 139 lbs for a three foot long section.

But you're right to say to visit a rail yard nearby, but keep in mind, it is illegal to remove the rail from the site without permission.  Most of today's rail has a high carbon content making them really tough.  It is also why the stuff is very expensive, and most all the scraps are recycled.

Lighter, older rail may be there for the asking,  Most railroaders are friendly folk and it should not be difficult to find one who is willing to help you out.

Remember, when you are on company property in a rail yard, expect the movement of any equipment on any track in either direction at any time with no advance warning.

Happy hunting...........Safely.

Answer 3

Go to the old section of your town and look for abandoned rail spurs; usually you will find old rail still in the ground; you may have to cut it yourself.

Answer 4

I got all the rail you need in my back yard, but it would be easier if you went to a rail yard where you live. Main line track weighs about 120 lbs per foot and side rail weighs about 80 lbs per foot