What equipment might a lineman use to inspect rail ties?

Inspecting rail ties is an essential part of maintaining railway infrastructure, and various tools aid in this process. Measuring instruments are crucial for linemen as they provide precise measurements of the rail ties' dimensions and conditions. These instruments can help assess wear, alignment, and any deformation that may affect the integrity of the track.

Thermal imaging cameras, while useful in detecting temperature differences, are not specifically designed for measuring the physical dimensions or structural integrity of rail ties. Metal detectors can help identify the presence of metal in the ties or surrounding areas, but they do not provide the necessary measurements for an inspection. Laser cutters are tools for cutting materials and are not applicable to the inspection process, as they do not measure or assess the condition of the ties.

Thus, measuring instruments stand out as the appropriate choice for a lineman inspecting rail ties because they directly provide the needed data to ensure safe and efficient train operations.