Best track for garden RR

[g. gage]

Bernie; I started out using LGB track, however I changed to Aristo (& USA), prices are better and I like the screw type connections. In fact on mainlines I have drilled and taped (2-56) LGB track mixing it with Aristo. I have heard of some problems with ties disinigrating. I have a deer problems and use the euo track, the ties are a little bigger and more robust. The deer bend the track before damaging ties.

Hope this helps, Rob

[Bucksco]

PIKO

[Gary128]

I use a combination of USA Trains and Aristocraft track.  Both have held up to the elements where I live... winter freezing and snow and hot humid summers....except this year  it was a rainy and cool summer.  Regardless, I am happy with either manufacturer.  Both stand behind their products. Both have websites you can browse.

Some other info you may be interested in is Aristocraft has 2 styles of track... one with European style tie spacing and US style tie spacing which are closer together more to North American standards than the wider European ones.  I believe their stainless steel is available only in US style tie spacing.  Visually to train buffs the Aristo US style looks better, but any regular folks may never notice or care about the difference.  It's a personal preference.

I use almost 95% brass because being a newbie I never knew stainless steel was even available until after I started in large scale.  Brass is cheaper and did help keep my new 'investment' within my budget.  I won't get into if one is better as there are some very different opinions on each, but if I was to start over I would use stainless steel as I simply prefer the look of it.

I have had no conductivity problems to date with either the brass or stainless steel and I am gradually introducing stainless steel into my layout for any switches and additions. The stainless retains its color/hue whereas the brass has darkened but conductivity is unaffected.

Both USAT and Aristo have rail joiners that have small screws to hold the track joins together, whereas LBG and Piko joiners are held in place by tighter joiners.

Hope this helps. 

The main thing is to have fun!  It's a great relaxing hobby.

Gary

 

[rpc7271]

I use the LGB track but with the problems they have had it is hard to find and getting expensive. I will be looking into the new Piko track soon. I have actually seen some in a hobby shop and like the look of it better than the LGB. The Aristo track has had some problems in the past (broken rails, disintegrating ties, etc). When I got started here in AZ I asked around and everyone i talked to said go with the LGb so i did.

[a67rs327]

Hello all,

 

Just beginning here. I had heard that aristo craft, either brass or stainless was the best track to use on outdoor garden rail roads. Would appreciate your input.

Thanks,

Bernie