dont plan on using pvc pipe unless your a begginner. If your gonna spin on or switch up you'll catch an edge for sure. Use steel pipe or flat stock, its not that expensive, and it wont ever break...
Ive used everything there is to use, and i love steel, the rust sands off and a lil wax and your ready to go. I also have a box, i used HDPE that i specailly ordered through my construction company. THey wouldnt even sell it straight to me. I really like the way it turned out, and it werks great.
DONT MAKE THIS MISTAKE, when using wood as a rail platform you cant screw down PVC, lexan, or anyhting else TIGHT. This will cause the plastic to bubble, wrinkle, and crack as the wood shrinks and expands. tighten all the screws by hand rather than running them in with a screw gun. You can Even drill out and counter-sink the plastic if the goods you are using are expensive.