Salvaged copper pipe 3/4 ", began by cleaning with vinegar and green scratchy pad. Some sections had interesting fittings so i included them. I did have to cut off ends with pipe cutter gizmo to get clean even round ends to join.
I thought i was going to solder them but the planing required a piece at a time put into place because of odd lengths and uneven walls and several turns and angles to deal with. I found some doweling i had picked up at an estate sale and used it as inserts between sections , then drilling holes and set screws to secure joins.
I reshaped 1 1/4 " new copper pipe brackets to mount to wall, securing to studs. These keep the railing close to the wall as the stair is pretty narrow. At the bottom ( or beginning) of stairs i actually carved wood joints as pipe fittings were not the correct angle. The stair way is not a straight shot, nor is it standard. It's a bit small to grip tightly and there are joints , however i feel much more secure knowing it's available for balance for others using the stairs. I think in a few months there will be a lovely patina again on the copper visually connecting it and it's components.
I still aspire to solder so i can collect and construct Fun stuff using copper pipe, it too will be a thing of history as plumbing relys on plastics.
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