This paper deals with robust variable structure control design for continuous-time linear systems involving non- smooth actuator nonlinearities. Also examined in this paper are global boundedness, slabilizability to origin, non-zero set point regulation and arbitrary reference tracking topics when discontinuous controllers are employed within the class of systems studied. Advantages of full-state feedback and robust observer design issues to overcome difficulties introduced into control due to the existence of non-smooth nonlinearities are addressed and the benefits of not having to identify the actual nonlinearity to achieve robust performance within the framework of sliding mode controllers are clarified.