Tie Strip recommendations..

[shayman2001]

For the last 10 years I have used Micro Engineering tie strips on over 300' of code 250 Nickel Silver rail.  Tie strips have held up fairly well but getting orders from Micro Engineering is extremely slow.  Any suggestions on a good alternative  250 tie strip manufacturer?  I used some Llagas a few years ago but wasn't enamored by the look.  Looking to balance availability with quality

Thanks!

 

 

 

 

[kstrong]

Llagas makes a few different tie strips. I used their "1:20.3" tie strips on my old railroad, and liked them a lot. A word of warning, though--you have to use Llagas's rail to go with them, since the base is a different size. It's also a VERY tight fit, so I'd recommend buying the pre-assembled stuff if you're going to go that route.

As an alternative, I'd perhaps try the Accucraft 1:20 tie strips. I'm using their track on my line now, and it's got a nice "narrow gauge" look as well. They use the same rail profile as Sunset Valley. I don't know how that compares to the ME rail, but I think it's similar. Might be worth getting a strip or two to check out if you've already got the ME rail.

I think Sunset Valley also just re-engineered their narrow gauge tie strips. I haven't seen them, though. Their old style ties are a bit thin for narrow gauge, but look good once in the ballast.

Later,

K

[Jerry Barnes]

 I use SVRR code 250 rail. It measures  ,242 on the bottom. I know LLagas is a little different size, not sure of ME.