Rail anvil

[PoorOwner]

The top of rail track is not flat since it is the "rung" of the train wheel yes?
Does that make a good anvil if you want to flatten things, or do I want a flat anvil surface?

Also is there different sizes of rails? Going by weight of foot long = 40lbs seems they are comparable.

because the guy locally wants $60 a foot (rusted) and another online is painted and polished for the same price shipped. I know you guys get it free but nothing is free where I live

 

[zkling]

It tends to act more like a fullering die.

You'd be better served with a heavy piece of solid stock on end. ~4" square x 12" long minimum.

$60 a foot for RR track is beyond absurd.

 

[shanny19]

I know you guys get it free but nothing is free where I live

California?
Go to the train museum in Sacramento.

Spend a half hour showing some geniune interest in one of the old guys volunteering their time as docents. Listen to the stories, ask questions.

If that doesn't lead down the path to a free chunk of rail iron, minus your ticket price and your time, I'll be thoroughly surprised.

 

[tarbellb]

Not sure where in Cali, but up north this is on CL. Pretty rad for RR.

https://chico.craigslist.org/tls/5346794070.html

 

[turbowoodworker]

In California that is a concealed weapon.

 

[OCJohn]

Also is there different sizes of rails?

Google "rail track dimensions" there are a number of different sizes in North America.
http://www.unitracrail.com/pdfs2013/Track_Components_Section.pdf
http://www.icrr.net/rails.htm

And yeah, $60/foot sounds high. But then, I've never bought it. Just kept my eye peeled for offcuts near new rail installations or areas in service.

 

[nonhog]

Yikes bought mine for $5/foot.