2x3 metal stud wiring

[taggart]

I am working on refinishing a basement and am doing the framing with 2x3 steel studs and I have some code questions.
I understand that because the studs are only 2.5" thick, one concern is meeting the requirement of being 1.25" away from the face of the stud.

I read in this post that a common way of solving this is to use MC cable to avoid the 1.25" requirement. If I do that, am I also then required to use metal wall boxes for bonding?

I have a metal stud punch and plastic grommets and saw some suggestions to use GB multi-cable staples for vertical support.
Most of my framing is on exterior walls (against foundation with XPS insulation). Could I use NM cable and somehow secure it to the "back" of the grommet to ensure it's 1.25" away? Or use a colorado jim somehow? Or route the cables behind the studs?(but how to properly secure them?) or a nail guard?(might affect drywall?)
Some of my framing is internal walls, I guess I'm more constrained there.
I'm not so worried about materials cost or time, I just want to do it right and pass inspection.

What boxes do you like for 2x3 metal studs?
Any other words of wisdom?
Thanks

 

[Dennis Alwon]

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