... at Kidderminster can very easily observe the difference between joggled and unjoggled switches. In platform 1 the engine release turnout at the buffer stops has an REA semi-curved flexible switch with undercut-pattern switch blades (set, no joggle): joggle-3.gif rea_no_joggle1.jpg rea_no_joggle2.jpg____ Across in platform 2 the engine release turnout has a GWR curved flexible switch with straightcut-pattern blades and joggled stock rails. The very much more robust nature of the blade tips in this case is very evident: joggle-1.gif gwr_joggle1.jpg gwr_joggle2.jpg____ Notice that in the undercut switch (upper two pictures) the blades are not shiny on top at the tip -- they serve only to guide the wheel flange, not to support the wheel, at the tip. In the straightcut switch (lower two pictures) the shiny tops run all the way to the tip, supporting the wheel along the full length of the planing. This is the way to identify switches in photos. If the open blade is shiny all the way to the tip ...

... your custom switch, you can choose whether to actually use the joggles for an individual template by means of the joggled stock rails option tickbox. 2_152321_250000000.png Here is a photo of a GWR joggled switch with straightcut planing. Notice the thicker more robust nature of the blade tip, and that it is full height and shiny all the way to the tip. Notice also that the depth of joggle in the stock rail is very small in relation to the rail width. It is not easy to create such a joggle in models. gwr_joggle2.jpg Prototype notes: REA and straight loose-heel switches can be either joggled or not- normally joggled switches are used only in facing positions on running lines. In trailing positions there is a danger of rough running when wheels hit the joggle return length on the open switch blade side, most severely when the main-road is curved. However, all GWR and BR(WR) switches are joggled. For REA switches the joggle depth is 3/8" (0.375 inches) and the joggle return length is 6 ...