On my outdoor layout, I use two types of levers to move the switch rails. The first is a counterbalanced 'Heywood' lever, and the other is the traditional 'ground throw'. Both types simple move the switch blades into the appropriate position through a straight pull of the operating bar and the weight on the top of the lever ensures they do not move once set in position. ( I also have a model of a lift/move/drop'lock US style switch stand).   Next year I am looking to rebuild the railway and