The Mission style of exterior railing is made of heavy square tubing which makes it very substantial looking as well as giving it great strength.  The steps on this Green Lake, Wisconsin home were core drilled to allow installation of the railing.  Note the steel feet that cover the bases of the balusters where they meet the stone steps.

Handrail materials used:
top rail & posts:  1.5" square tubing,br
bottom rail and pickets:  1" square tubing

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   The deck to which the steps lead are also protected by a Mission style railing.  It is made of the same square steel tubing as the stair railing shown in the photo above.