Track Spikes
Select the spike size and quantity.
ⓘ Identification & Terminology GuideSpike size is described by shank size and nominal length; identify screw spikes separately from conventional cut track spikes.
Open Guide
Spike size is described by shank size and nominal length; identify screw spikes separately from conventional cut track spikes.
Original MidStates identification schematic. Not to scale and not an installation or engineering drawing.
Track Spike Identification & Terminology
Conventional spike with a rectangular/square-like shank and offset head used with timber ties and tie plates.
Threaded rail/tie fastening that should not be identified or quantified as a conventional cut spike.
Nominal cross-sectional size of the spike shank, such as 5/8 inch.
The specified spike length, such as 6 inches.
How to identify what you have
- Determine whether the item is a cut spike, screw spike/lag or another fastening type.
- Measure nominal shank size and length.
- Inspect the head shape and any manufacturer markings.
- Identify the plate/tie/rail application if known because fastening systems vary.
What to measure
- Overall/nominal length
- Shank width/thickness
- Head dimensions when needed
What photos help MidStates
- Full spike beside a scale
- Head
- Point
- Shank
- Any head/manufacturer markings
Common identification mistakes
- Estimating size from a photo without scale
- Calling screw spikes track spikes
- Assuming spike count/pattern is universal across railroad standards
Technical references & source notes
Reference for terminology and compatibility principles covering plates, spikes, anchors, joint bars and related industrial-track materials.
Open authoritative public sourceReference for turnout terminology, tie/plate/spike practices and industry-track material identification context.
Open authoritative public sourceReference index for rail sections, joint bars, compromise joints, tie plates, switches, turnout components, frogs, guard rails and fasteners.
Open authoritative public sourceMidStates uses external publications to support technical facts and terminology. The explanatory text, diagrams and presentation on this page are original MidStates content and do not reproduce railroad or AREMA drawings.
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