Abstract: A two-piece locking spike which includes a first shaft having a longitudinal groove extending from the top of the shaft approximately one third of the way down along one side to a tapered bottom. A second shaft is also provided which fits into said longitudinal groove and which includes a tapered point at the bottom which corresponds to the tapered bottom of said groove. After the first shaft is inserted into a medium, the second shaft (which is longer than the groove) is inserted into the groove so that when fully inserted, the bottom of the second shaft protrudes into the medium at a different angle than the first shaft. This interaction helps lock the first shaft more snugly in place in the medium. Several alternative embodiments are available including rounded and squared spikes, nails, and screws.

Abstract: A device for deterring the overturning of railroad rails comprised of a generally C-shaped boltless clip for restraining the upward movement of a rail base flange. The clip is disposed within an existing spike hole in a conventional railroad tie plate with its upper arm positioned in partially overlapping, spaced relation to the rail base flange and its lower arm, which is formed into a catch, in anchored engagement beneath the tie plate and wedged into the tie supporting the rail. In the presence of rail overturn forces, the clip couples the rail base flange to the tie plate.