Recently, I decided to add some trackage to my railroad. My track is based on Aristocraft stainless steel rail and was commenced around eight years ago.
I took a look around at the usual places to see what trackage was available online. It seems that stainless rail is now as rare as the proverbial rocking horse excretion. Of cause brass rail is available in limited quantities, but I have no intention of travelling that direction unless forced due circumstances.
I decided that as rail was not available then my only recourse was a partial redesign of my existing track to see what could be utilised in a different fashion. I was able to free up several switches and straight rail. Fortunately, I had some curved rail unused from my initial purchase many years ago. I have found that it is possible to straighten out curved rail and modify the sleeper base to suit. It also seems that the basic sleeper base is very limited quantities.
I remember when a time existed when a model railroad manufacturer actually produced something as basic as rail. Do manufacturers actually think that rail is no longer required on today’s railroads? No wonder some manufacturers are in their current financial crisis. I looked at one distributor’s website and basically all that is available is a box of four-foot diameter stainless curved rail and a couple of crossings. Even brass rail supplies are hardly any better!
Maybe I am looking in the wrong places or has the hobby descended to the point that track is no longer available. I can of cause buy the Hungarian made item in brass from the German company but their track geometry (curves/switches) are different to my needs. Maybe time for a new hobby!!!