Split Jaw vs. Hillmans

Garden Railroading
1

I am looking at brass rail clamps for code 332 track. I knew of Hillmans but then I saw the split jaw products which look identical (and cheaper $). I was wondering which should I buy, is there a difference in quallity, etc.

2

Both are good quality products. I like the design and hold of the Split Jaws a bit more.

Both can be over tightened and cause them to break.

Another option are the Aristo rail clamps which are a nice design that works from above with a philips head screwdriver. They hold well and are also cheaper.

-Brian

3

I would politely disagree with Brian here on this point. Both are “Top Quality” products. The Aristo clamps that Brian posted a pic is better than “Good Quality”, at least in my humble opinion. I use Split Jaws mostly because that is what my LHS carries in stock. I do have some Hillmans without any problems. I like the design of the Split Jaw isolators as I get positive clamping and positive electrical separation.

4

I’ve always used Hillman Clamps and haven’t had any problems with them. I also have cut them in half for wiring to rails. Usually with a reversing loop or wye, where both rails are insulated I use a Hillman insulator connector on one rail and a plastic one on the other to cut costs and hold tracks together. I tried there removable track connectors and wasn’t satisfied with them. I should add that I do know the Hillmans.

Have fun, Rob

5

Oh Tom, you’re such a trouble maker! [:X]

-Brian

6

Wow, Hillmans more than Split Jaw? I guess Silvergate had something to do with that. I run SS so the choice is obvious, SJ. The Hillmans have smaller screws, and that makes the socket head smaller. I like the larger screw to allow more torque without breaking. Some Hillmans had problems with breakage, I suppose that is solved.

Also check Uncle Herm’s joiners.

I have the links and some more discussion on these on my web site:

scroll down the page or take the quick link to “rail clamps”

http://www.elmassian.com/trains-mainmenu-27/track-mainmenu-93/track-powerwiring-mainmenu-237

Regards, Greg

7

Thanks for the help everyone!.. I just bought 100 of the Aristocraft clamps.

8

I have been using Train-li’s rail clamps . Worth checking out. http://www.mylargescale.com/Community/Forums/tabid/56/aff/17/aft/111145/afv/topic/Default.aspx Sean