Using paper clips or staples for metal grab rails on switchers

[cedarwoodron]

I saw a modeler's recent project on the Tyco website forum where he used staples for grab rails at each end of a diesel switcher. My question, apart from the frugal attractiveness of this idea, is: Would regular or large paper clips be more suitable, or do they scale out too large in HO? If anyone has experience using either method, please post about it. Cedarwoodron

[hon30critter]

Staples might be OK if the width is right, but they have a square profile whereas the prototypical grab rails were round. Any paper clips that I have seen are much larger in diameter than the 1" prototype diameter  grabs (please correct me if I am wrong on the 1" prototype diameter).

I use Tichy phosphor bronze wire to make my own grab irons. Their .010" stock is close to prototypical size. http://www.tichytraingroup.com/index.php?page=view_category.php&category=Wire&offset=0

Bottom line is - you can use whatever you want, especially if the price is right. It is your railroad after all!

Dave

[tomikawaTT]

Because of their square cross-section, staples make good stirrup steps.  They aren't really suitable for handrails or grab irons, which are typically in the 3/4"<1" diameter round stock range.

I use a lot of paper clips in my modeling, in just about every available size.  The smallest size I have, with the smallest diameter wire, is about 50mm in diameter in 1:80 scale, or over two inches in HO.

In my own work I've used magnet wire - and extreme care when handling the models so fitted.

Chuck (Modeling Central Japan in September, 1964)