On the Georgetown Loop, most of our switches are #8's - don't think we would want to use anything less for normal operation. You can use sharper switches for spurs and the like where space is tight, but your Mikado's probably won't like them at all. Speaking of sticker shock, we have a worn out guard rail, that's right, just the guard rail on our standard gauge operation through the Royal Gorge that has priced out at over $10,000 for a replacement! True, its 136lb. mainline rail but that's a hefty price for a guard rail. Just think what the frog must cost!
Phil