Starrett 56507 A2 Tool Steel Flat Stock 1/2x1x36 in

Product Description

The STARRETT 56507 is an A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock bar used in toolmaking, die making, and precision machining applications. The bar measures 0.5 inches thick, 1 inch wide, and 36 inches long, and weighs 5.86 pounds. A2 tool steel offers a balanced combination of wear resistance and toughness, making it well suited for blanking dies, forming dies, punches, and gauges. Thickness tolerance is held to plus or minus 0.001 inches, squareness tolerance to plus or minus 0.001 inches, and edge squareness to 0.003 inches per inch. These tight tolerances reduce hand-fitting time during tool fabrication.

This flat stock is used in job shops, tool and die shops, and maintenance departments that machine or grind their own tooling. It is supplied in the annealed condition, ready for machining prior to heat treat. Typical applications include cutting tools, stamping dies, shear blades, and precision fixtures where dimensional stability through heat treatment is required. The 36-inch length allows multiple blanks to be cut from a single bar, reducing material waste on short-run tooling projects.

Key Features

• A2 air-hardening tool steel — minimizes distortion during heat treatment compared to oil-hardening grades
• Thickness tolerance: plus or minus 0.001 inches for consistent stock removal during grinding
• Width tolerance: plus 0.000 to 0.005 inches
• Length tolerance: plus 0.25 inches
• Edge squareness: 0.003 inches per inch on all edges
• Supplied annealed for machinability prior to hardening

Compatibility

Designed as a standard A2 air-hardening tool steel flat stock suitable for use in die making, toolmaking, and precision machining applications requiring AISI A2 material specification.

Installation Notes

Cutting, grinding, and heat treatment of tool steel should be performed by qualified machinists or toolmakers familiar with AISI A2 material requirements. Follow the steel manufacturer's recommended austenitizing temperature and air-quench procedure to achieve target hardness. Use appropriate personal protective equipment when cutting or grinding. Verify final dimensions after heat treatment, as even air-hardening grades experience minor dimensional change.