MetalworkingFun Forum

Whats everyones favorite metal for boring bars. have always used 1018 mild steel for 1 inch and up. but smaller ones seem to need more rigidity .been saving back old breaker bars and tire tools . just wondering.

4130, 4180 and both oil & air hardening drill rod are my faves.  That said there have been times where the job could not wait & I used whatever was available.

Have used oil well sucker rod for small boring bars and alot of it is 4130 pretty tuff and ridged stuff. maby someone can use that idea if your close to getting some.