I didn't see it mentioned in the other thread, but on a 6 inch hydrant and lead replacement (including hydrant isolation valve, hydrant replacement and lead to the main tee) use of both thrust blocks and restraints can be a benefit as you can (with peace of mind and confidence) pressure test, flush and sample the hydrant that day rather than (with no restraints) waiting until tomorrow after the thrust block has set up enough. For the price of the restraints, it saves some time and provides extra confidence in the quality of the build (eg. no leaks). If this asset was being replaced in the event of an emergency water leak, then it might save a day on your boil water advisories process and inconveniences to the system customers as it may apply.

I would think on vertical bends (especially on larger mains) both restraints and thrust block would be utilized for that extra "confidence" as well.

Thrust blocks and restrained joints are alternative methods of providing thrust restraint.

Thrust blocks are no longer considered to be good piping practice. This is because thrust blocks are normally paired with undetermined soil properties and poor construction techniques. These uncertainties lead to unknown performance parameters for the piping system.

The reasons for not using thrust blocks are explained here:

https://daviddkent.wordpress.com/2013/01/22/thrust...

The use of mechanical restrained joints instead of thrust blocks would provide an easier, more predictable and safer installation.