Value Collection 06010284 W-1 Tool Steel Drill Rod 7/16 in

Product Description

The VALUE COLLECTION 06010284 is a W-1 water hardening tool steel drill rod measuring 0.438 inches in diameter and 36 inches in length. Drill rod stock in W-1 grade is used as raw material for fabricating cutting tools, punches, dies, and precision machine components. The W-1 designation indicates a water-quench hardening process that produces a hard outer case with a relatively tough core. At 1.55 pounds, this rod is manageable for bench work and can be cut, turned, or ground to final dimensions before heat treatment. Machinists, toolmakers, and die makers are the primary users of this stock material.

W-1 drill rod is suited for shop environments where custom tooling is made in-house. Typical applications include turning down blanks for drill bits, reamers, taps, hand tools, and gauges. It is also used for fixture pins, mandrels, and other precision components that require a hardened surface after final machining. This grade performs well in low-to-moderate production environments and is widely used in job shops and maintenance machining operations.

Key Features

• W-1 water hardening grade provides a hard surface after quench with a tougher core
• 0.438 inch (7/16 inch) diameter held to close tolerance for use as raw drill rod stock
• 36 inch length provides sufficient bar stock for multiple part blanks per piece
• Tool steel composition supports grinding, turning, and milling before heat treat
• Single-piece packaging suitable for low-volume toolroom and maintenance shop use

Compatibility

Designed as a general-purpose W-1 water hardening tool steel drill rod blank for machining and toolmaking applications requiring 7/16 inch diameter round stock.

Installation Notes

Cutting and machining of tool steel rod should be performed by a qualified machinist using appropriate feeds, speeds, and cutting fluid. Hardening requires controlled heat treatment followed by water quench — this process should be performed by personnel familiar with tool steel heat treating procedures to avoid cracking or warping. Handle cut ends carefully as edges can be sharp. Wear appropriate PPE including eye protection and gloves when cutting or grinding this material.