@Tom Tee posted:In my experience, whether it be Arctic or Baltic or Russian or Northern...almost does not matter. The goal is to get plywood from a slow growth cold climate forest which yields a dense stable wood.
One product you never want to use for a train platform is Pine anything. No guarantee on how bad it will warp.
The best value in plywood for a layout in this market is a 3/4" (23/32") Birch called "Shop Grade". It has plugged veneer but perfectly solid core. Paint grade.
There is a some what popular HD product called "Sandy Ply" which is pure Russian Roulette. OK for a dog house or your in-laws but a real gamble for your RR.
IMO, the best value in 3/4" sheet goods is Advantech manufactured panels. Period.
I know what you mean about that sanded ply. My local Home Depot has that stuff in 2 x 4 cuts and I grabbed one to use for my table saw outfeed. Never again! Nothing slides on it due to all the splinters raised. 
Most of my shop benches and drawers are from shop birch ply. You're right, that's a good alternative and the price around here is still $66/sheet.
BTW, I'm up to high-heeled sneakers. I don't think I'll have to go to platform soles, but we'll see.
