Handrail dimensions

[Anonymous]

[?] Can anyone tell me what the actual diameters of locomotive handrails are? I do not live near a railway so cannot go and measure any!
I would also like to know the diameters of handrails on coaches if anyone knows.
I want to model them in wire in HO scale, but there seems to be a huge variation in suggested sizes - some so wide that they would be too big to put a hand around!

[jrbarney]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Bilby2k

[?] Can anyone tell me what the actual diameters of locomotive handrails are? I do not live near a railway so cannot go and measure any!
I would also like to know the diameters of handrails on coaches if anyone knows.
I want to model them in wire in HO scale, but there seems to be a huge variation in suggested sizes - some so wide that they would be too big to put a hand around!

Bilby2k,
According to steam locomotive data compiled by Linn H. Westcott, and published in Model Railroader Cyclopedia - Volume 1, Steam Locomotives, handrail diameter was usually 1 3/8" diameter, but handholds, such as on a switcher pilot beam, were 5/8" diameter. If you are trying to achieve this level of authenticity, you might want to put this book on your shopping list. I'll have to look in my copy of White's book on pasenger cars to see if there is information there on the diameter of coach handrails. Hope this helps - perhaps some detail maven will chime in.
Bob
NMRA Life 0543