I now use Ross exclusively unless I need the flexibility of Gargraves. as you mentioned it looks better and for me it's a little easier to install being rigid. I also have a good working relationship with Ross Custom Switches so in the event I need something as a layout builder in a pinch, I know Ross will come through for me. This isn't to say Gargraves wouldn't be the same way, I've just not come across the need.
Genuinely If you can afford it Going all Ross looks really nice but it is stupid expensive. That said Gargraves offeres flex track, ross does not and Gargraves does open up some possibilities with their Blade track joiners which is a flat piece of stainless /nickel plated steel (not sure of which actually) which makes it far easier to insert track in the middle of two other piece of track. You can also wedge in spade connectors from the bottom of the track making solder less wire connections. This is why a lot of people mix the two brands.
Atlas's big problems is availability and variety. It's really nice track but there's not much in the way of switch options and getting it in any sizable quantities is impossible. With ross, You have the quality, variety and availability with the added benefit of actual live people answering the phone in the event you do have a question or need advice.
@@MRBenchwork those are all really valid points. The amount of switches is amazing, but to have someone who picks up the phone and gives advice is priceless. Thank you for the info.
I run gargraves and ross switches I prefer the ross. Mainly cause the gargraves switch is a pain in the but to wire same with ross if you get the non pre wired ones. That & the ross switch has wood ties vs plastic ties
@@Dachamp2001 The track is pretty much identical to the switches. really the only down sides are its slightly more expensive and not at all flexible. That said, it's really nice to work with. See my nightmare layout series for a good overview of it being used.
like to see more videos on ross custom switches. thank you! I am building a 35 foot by 7 foot and more. will be using ross switches with my tmcc and dcs
Correct. I've only ever seen Gargraves switches once and I didn't have any laying around my shop when I made this video. That said, in the one opportunity I did use Gargraves switches on a layout I quickly realized I'd never do it again. There's really no benefit. They look cheap as they're on thermo plastic molded tie beds and their options are extremely limited in comparison to Ross Custom Switches.
Good information. I’ve been using Gargraves track for my two current layouts, but my new build is a yard with a roundhouse, turntable, and switching/storage ladder, and I’m excited to use the Ross Custom Switches ladder tracks! Thanks for the comparison.
Ross switches are the best I use both Ross and garcraves track together
I'm planning to use Ross track for my whole layout. I like the visible spikes and I don't need it to flex.
That’s really the ideal way to go. I personally only use gargraves for areas I need flexibility or huge graceful sweeping curves
I’ve used both tracks, and I prefer Ross track. It looks better, and the tie color matches the switch tie color.
I now use Ross exclusively unless I need the flexibility of Gargraves. as you mentioned it looks better and for me it's a little easier to install being rigid. I also have a good working relationship with Ross Custom Switches so in the event I need something as a layout builder in a pinch, I know Ross will come through for me. This isn't to say Gargraves wouldn't be the same way, I've just not come across the need.
I like both o gauge track
Thanks for the info, I am currently trying to figure out what kind of track work I will be using.
Genuinely If you can afford it Going all Ross looks really nice but it is stupid expensive. That said Gargraves offeres flex track, ross does not and Gargraves does open up some possibilities with their Blade track joiners which is a flat piece of stainless /nickel plated steel (not sure of which actually) which makes it far easier to insert track in the middle of two other piece of track. You can also wedge in spade connectors from the bottom of the track making solder less wire connections. This is why a lot of people mix the two brands.
Appreciate it !
Not included in the video obviously, but how does atlas track compare to these products?
Atlas's big problems is availability and variety. It's really nice track but there's not much in the way of switch options and getting it in any sizable quantities is impossible. With ross, You have the quality, variety and availability with the added benefit of actual live people answering the phone in the event you do have a question or need advice.
@@MRBenchwork those are all really valid points. The amount of switches is amazing, but to have someone who picks up the phone and gives advice is priceless. Thank you for the info.
I run gargraves and ross switches I prefer the ross. Mainly cause the gargraves switch is a pain in the but to wire same with ross if you get the non pre wired ones. That & the ross switch has wood ties vs plastic ties
Ditto. Ross is preferred everywhere flex track isn’t needed
@@MRBenchwork never ran ross tracks just there switches
@@Dachamp2001 The track is pretty much identical to the switches. really the only down sides are its slightly more expensive and not at all flexible. That said, it's really nice to work with. See my nightmare layout series for a good overview of it being used.
This is a perfect fit for us as we’re using GarGraves track, and Ross switches!! Consider Real Toy Trains SUBSCRIBED!
like to see more videos on ross custom switches. thank you! I am building a 35 foot by 7 foot and more. will be using ross switches with my tmcc and dcs
You’re in luck. I’ll be making a video on that topic in great detail next week and it will likely go on TH-cam in the next 2-3 weeks
There is no reference to Ross vs GarGraves switches.
Correct. I've only ever seen Gargraves switches once and I didn't have any laying around my shop when I made this video. That said, in the one opportunity I did use Gargraves switches on a layout I quickly realized I'd never do it again. There's really no benefit. They look cheap as they're on thermo plastic molded tie beds and their options are extremely limited in comparison to Ross Custom Switches.
is the ross hollow?
They accept track pins regardless of where they are cut. (yes) It's very very nice track to work with.
This was about tracks not switches. While still nice information to have. rename this video and make another one on actual switches.
Noted. When I get my hands on some Gargraves switches I'll do a comparison.
Good information. I’ve been using Gargraves track for my two current layouts, but my new build is a yard with a roundhouse, turntable, and switching/storage ladder, and I’m excited to use the Ross Custom Switches ladder tracks! Thanks for the comparison.