14 best steel rods

Steel rods are versatile cylindrical metal components that find application in various fields, including power plant driveline systems, remote-controlled vehicles (RC vehicles) parts, and hobbies.Here's what you should know about steel rods in these contexts:

  1. Material and Characteristics:

    • Steel rods are typically made from steel, a strong and durable alloy that can withstand high levels of stress and load.
    • They are available in various lengths, diameters, and grades to suit different applications.
    • Steel rods are known for their high tensile strength, which makes them suitable for applications where strength and durability are crucial.
  2. Power Plant Driveline Systems:

    • In power plant driveline systems, steel rods may be used as components of various mechanical and transmission systems.
    • They can be employed in shafts, linkages, or other parts that require high torque and load-bearing capabilities.
    • Steel rods help transmit power and motion within the driveline, ensuring the efficient operation of equipment and machinery in power plants.
  3. Remote App-Controlled Vehicle Parts (RC Vehicles):

    • Steel rods are commonly used in remote-controlled vehicles, such as RC cars, airplanes, helicopters, and boats.
    • These rods may serve as connecting links in the vehicle's suspension system, steering mechanism, or chassis.
    • The durability of steel rods is essential in RC vehicles, as they must withstand the shocks, impacts, and stresses that occur during high-speed or off-road operation.
  4. Hobbies and DIY Projects:

    • Steel rods are popular among hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts for various projects.
    • They can be used for creating custom structures, frames, or linkages in model-building, robotics, and other hobbies.
    • Steel rods are often readily available in hobby stores and come in a range of sizes to accommodate different project needs.
  5. Bearing and Support Applications:

    • Steel rods can be employed as shafts in bearings and support structures in various machinery and equipment.
    • Their strength and rigidity are valuable in ensuring stable and reliable operation.
  6. Cutting and Modification:

    • Steel rods can be easily cut and modified to specific lengths or shapes using tools like hacksaws or rotary tools.
    • This flexibility allows users to tailor the rods to their specific project requirements.
  7. Corrosion Resistance:

    • Depending on the application, it may be necessary to protect steel rods from corrosion by applying coatings or using corrosion-resistant steel alloys.
  8. Safety Considerations:

    • When working with steel rods, especially in hobbies or DIY projects, users should take safety precautions, such as wearing appropriate protective gear and using the correct tools.

In summary, steel rods are versatile components used in various applications, including power plant driveline systems, remote-controlled vehicles, and hobbies. Their strength, durability, and flexibility make them valuable for transmitting power, providing structural support, and contributing to the functionality of diverse mechanical and DIY projects.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best steel rods on the market
  

Sutemribor 2mm x 300mm Stainless Steel Model Straight Metal Round Shaft Rod Bars for DIY RC Car, RC Helicopter Airplane (10 PCS)

Based on 94 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Package Includes:



10 PCS 2mm x 300mm Model Straight Metal Round Shaft Rod Bars

Note: the product are small parts, keep away from children and kids.

  • √ Color: Silver
  • √ Material: Stainless Steel
  • √ Size: 2mm x 300mm (D*L)
  • √ For DIY RC Model, Model Toy
  • √ Widely used in Gear shaft, motor shaft, short support shaft, shaft pocket model, miniature axle, model plane, model ship, model cars.

User questions & answers

Question: can I use it in a grill
Answer: The thickness is way too much to bend by hand.
Question: Could these rods be used for making hanging mobiles, i.e. are they easy to bend
Answer: These are stainless steel rods, so they are not aluminum.
Question: Can I use this for aluminum and stainless steel
Answer: No
Question: Can you use This item to weld aluminum and stainless steal together
Answer: It did fit inside the 1-1/2 inch receiver tube on my car. The fit was perfect, not too snug and not rattle loose.

24 Pieces 304 Stainless Steel Round Rods Bar Assorted Diameter 1.5-8 mm for 100 mm Length Lead-Free Stainless Steel Rod for Drift Punches Various Shaft DIY Craft Model Plane Model Ship Model Cars

Ripeng

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description



24 Pieces 304 stainless steel round rods bar assorted diameter 1.5 - 8 mm for 100 mm length lead-free stainless steel rod for drift punches various shaft DIY craft model plane model ship model cars



Features:



Easy to store:

These 304 stainless steel rods are well wrapped in a plastic box, convenient to organize and pick, portable to keep these 304 stainless steel bars in order.



For multiple application:

These 304 stainless steel rod assortments are suitable for DIY craft, can be applied for various shaft DIY model plane, model ship, model cars and more.



Specifications:

Material: quality 304 stainless steel

Color: silver

Size:

Diameter: 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 8 mm

Length: 100 mm



Package includes:

1 Piece 8 x 100 mm 304 stainless steel rod

2 Pieces 6 x 100 mm 304 stainless steel rods

3 Pieces 5 x 100 mm 304 stainless steel rods

3 Pieces 4 x 100 mm 304 stainless steel rods

6 Pieces 3 x 100 mm 304 stainless steel rods

3 Pieces 2.5 x 100 mm 304 stainless steel rods

3 Pieces 2 x 100 mm 304 stainless steel rods

3 Pieces 1.5 x 100 mm 304 stainless steel rods

  • Reliable material: these 304 stainless steel round rods bars are made of quality 304 stainless steel, no harm to human
  • Size: 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 8 mm in diameter, 100 mm in length, diverse sizes to meet your different needs
  • Well wrapped: these 304 stainless steel rods are stored in a plastic box, convenient to organize and pick, portable to keep these 304 stainless steel bars in order
  • Wide range of uses: these stainless steel rod assortments are suitable for DIY craft, can be applied for various shaft DIY model plane, model ship, model cars and more
  • What you get: you will get 1 piece 8 x 100 mm stainless steel rod, 2 pieces for 6 x 100 mm, 3 pieces for 5 x 100 mm, 3 pieces for 4 x 100 mm, 6 pieces for 3 x 100 mm, 3 pieces for 2.5 x 100 mm, 3 pieces for 2 x 100 mm and 3 pieces for 1.5 x 100 mm

Glarks 2Pcs 6mm x 356mm Stainless Steel Straight Solid Metal Round Rod Lathe Bar Stock for DIY RC Model Car, RC Helicopter Airplane, Model Ship (6mmx356)

Based on 81 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Glarks High quality stainless steel solid round rod lathe bar stock assorted



Material: Stainless steel

Color: Silver

Diameter: 1/4 Inch / 6mm

Length:14 Inch / 356mm

Feature:

-- High quality, corrosion-resistant, sturdy and durable

-- The surface is smooth, easy to shape, no cracks formed



Application:

-- Widely used in Gear shaft, motor shaft, short support shaft, shaft pocket model, miniature axle, model plane, model ship, model cars



Packing details:

Round Rod x 2pcs



Note:

Please allow 0.1-0.5mm error due to manual measurement.

The product are small parts, please keep away from children.

  • ★ Product type: High quality stainless steel solid round rod lathe bar stock.
  • ★ Material: High hardness stainless steel, strong rust-resistant and corrosion-resistant, sturdy and durable.
  • ★ Size: 14 Inch / 356mm in length, 1/4 Inch / 6mm in diameter
  • ★ Feature: The surface is smooth, easy to shape, no cracks formed, keep car normal operation efficiently, and steady car body to overcome difficulty easily.
  • ★ Application: Widely used in Gear shaft, motor shaft, short support shaft, shaft pocket model, miniature axle, model plane, model ship, model cars.

User questions & answers

Question: Anyone knows the magnetic property of this? Will magnet work on this
Answer: per my dial calipers, they're 0.235" so just under 6mm
Question: Is it 6mm or 1/4" ? there is a difference
Answer: 304 stainless steel, thanks for your support.
Question: what type of stainless steel is this
Answer: Not unless you want to weld the individual pieces together. Even then, I am not sure this is the material you would want to use.

W1 Tool Steel Round Rod, Polished Finish, Precision Ground, Precision Tolerance, 1/4" Diameter, 36" Length

Precision Brand Products, Inc.

Based on 123 reviews Check latest price

Product description

  • W1 tool steel has excellent machinability when hardened in water following heat treatment
  • Meets ASTM A686 and SAE J437 specifications
  • Ground with high precision to the specified shape and size
  • Polished finish offers a smooth surface with few imperfections
  • Precision tolerance

User questions & answers

Question: does the material comes certified? because i need it certified or it won't be useful
Answer: Yes. It’s your basic carbon steel. Magnet should grab to it
Question: is it magnetic
Answer: It is shipped in an annealed state. You would need to heat treat and quench it. That said. I do not now the exact Rockwell hardness as shipped, but it's low.
Question: What is the hardness of the steeel on the Rockwell scale
Answer: never welded it, and it would rust ,
Question: What is this rods weld ability please? I have something I want to attach to it and put in the ground-,thanks
Answer: Made of aluminum... no magnetic pull

K & S PRECISION METALS 87135 1/8x12 SS Rod

K & S Precision Metals

Based on 69 reviews Check latest price

Product description

1/8" x 12", stainless steel rod.

  • 1/8 inch diameter x 12 inch length
  • Great for scratch builders, modelers, crafts, machine shops and architectural applications
  • Stainless steel with polished natural finish
  • Cut to desired length

User questions & answers

Question: What type of steel
Answer: not totally
Question: Is this rod Non magnetic
Answer: Hard to say.. I guess it's kinda..
Question: Is this shiney
Answer: No it was not certified.

Product features

Variety Of Sizes

K&S Metals offers a wide variety of sizes to suit your specific project!

Variety Of Uses

  • Hobby/Craft
  • Home Improvement/DIY
  • Electrical
  • Engineering
  • Education
  • Static Models
  • Puppetry
  • Prototyping and more!

Glarks 18Pcs Stainless Steel Solid Round Rod Lathe Bar Stock Assorted for DIY Craft Tool, Diameter 2.5-8mm Length 100mm

Based on 218 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Glarks High quality stainless steel solid round rod lathe bar stock assorted



Material:stainless steel

Color: Silver

Diameter: 2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, 6mm, 8mm

Length:100mm

Feature:

-- High quality, strong rust-resistant and corrosion-resistant, sturdy and durable

-- The surface is smooth, easy to shape, no cracks formed

Application:

Widely used in Gear shaft, motor shaft, short support shaft, shaft pocket model, miniature axle, model plane, model ship, model cars



Packing details:

2mm -------------- 3pcs

2.5mm ----------- 3pcs

3mm -------------- 3pcs

4mm -------------- 3pcs

5mm -------------- 2pcs

6mm -------------- 2pcs

8mm -------------- 2pcs

Total: 18pcs



Note:

Please allow 1-5mm error due to manual measurement.

The product are small parts, keep away from children and kids.

  • Product type: High quality stainless steel solid round rod lathe bar stock assorted
  • Material: High hardness stainless steel, strong rust-resistant and corrosion-resistant, sturdy and durable
  • Diameter: 2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, 6mm, 8mm
  • Feature: The surface is smooth, easy to shape, no cracks formed
  • Application: Widely used in Gear shaft, motor shaft, short support shaft, shaft pocket model, miniature axle, model plane, model ship, model cars

User questions & answers

Question: Whats the alloy of the stainless rods
Answer: I have the brass rods and found the straightness to be quite good. That, of course, depends on what kind of tolerance you’re looking for. Without the proper tools to measure straightness I can only go by the lack of any real noticeable wobble when rolling them on my workbench. I hope this helps and if not, I tried.
Question: straitness of the rod
Answer: I have not tried to bend these rods. I would search for aluminum rods.
Question: Can this be bent? If yes, how? Need it for my kid's school project
Answer: T6 aluminum cannot be bent. Other softer aluminums will bend easier than stainless steels.
Question: Which is easier to bend cleanly: aluminum or stainless steel
Answer: The bar will be here long after you're gone.

1018 Carbon Steel Round Rod, Unpolished (Mill) Finish, Cold Finished Temper, ASTM A108, 1" Diameter, 12" Length

Small Parts

Based on 139 reviews Check latest price

Product description

  • 1018 carbon steel is a low-carbon steel that provides a balance of strength, machinability, formability, and weldability
  • Meets ASTM A108 specifications
  • Cold finished to the specified dimensions
  • Unpolished (mill) surface has no finish
  • Standard tolerance

User questions & answers

Question: Could this rod laying across 2 jack stands hold 450lbs in the center
Answer: It is as durable as any other mild steel. What application are you needing it for?
Question: is this item durable
Answer: I dont see why not if your just talking a yard cart like you pull behind a standard lawnmower. Its cold roll stuff but its steel. Yard cart should have wheels and they have bushings or bearings. If its designed for that diameter axle/rod.....no reason it wouldn't work and likely just like original on would be.
Question: Do you think this is strong enough to be used as a axle on a yard cart
Answer: No it did not...
Question: does this material come with MTR listing mechanical properties
Answer: 304

Eowpower 4Pcs Stainless Steel 6mm x 200mm Round Rod Turning Lathe Bars Tool

Eowpower

Based on 40 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Apply for carving steel, copper , iron, aluminum material. Used for turning, graving, boring, etc.

  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Size: 6 x 200mm/0.24" x 7.9"(D*L)
  • Net Weight: 93g
  • Package includes:4pcs

User questions & answers

Question: Is it bendable
Answer: What will they b used for
Question: Would these be something i could use for a indoor dog crate
Answer: i meant to respond earlier but I forgot. Having not actually done any tests on this specific steel the numbers for ultimate tensile strength and yield strength should be close but may vary very minimally due to this company's level of impurities, surface finish etc. But according to another vendor the ultimate tensile strength (point when material snaps) of 1018 is 63,800 psi, the yield strength (point when material no long elastically deforms) is 53,700 psi. Your model according to my calculations would put 782,675.16 psi of stress on this rod. DO NOT DO IT!!!

National Hardware N179-820 4005BC Smooth Rod in Zinc plated,3/4" x 36"

National Hardware

Based on 193 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Whether for home, farm, builder or industrial customers, National has all the right hardware in the sizes and finishes you need. With over a century of service National is committed to maintaining the highest level of product quality, innovation and manufacturing technology. Quality metal sheets and rod both threaded and smooth for all for your construction projects. Plated steel has increased resistance to corrosion thanks to its zinc-plated and galvanized finishes. Perforated tubes, slotted flats and angles, smooth rods and threaded rods are among the top popular plated steel products. Zinc plating offers corrosion resistance for all of your functional hardware needs.

From the Manufacturer

Whether for home, farm, builder or industrial customers, National has all the right hardware in the sizes and finishes you need. With over a century of service National is committed to maintaining the highest level of product quality, innovation and manufacturing technology. Quality metal sheets and rod both threaded and smooth for all for your construction projects. Plated steel has increased resistance to corrosion thanks to its zinc-plated and galvanized finishes. Perforated tubes, slotted flats and angles, smooth rods and threaded rods are among the top popular plated steel products. Zinc plating offers corrosion resistance for all of your functional hardware needs.

  • Authorized Replacement for Stanley Hardware Stock #N179-820
  • Designed for axles on wagons, carts, and other do-it-yourself projects
  • Can be drilled, cut, heated, shaped
  • Not recommended for welding due to zinc plating

User questions & answers

Question: Is this a suitable replacement for squirrel cage shaft in a swamp cooler
Answer: If you're worried about it fitting in a bearing like a pillow block, it might be snug but will work well.
Question: Does the coating finish increase the outside diameter
Answer: Yes, and you may be able to sand anything that may not meet your spects. You may find some sag in the rod ?
Question: Are the tolerances on this rod tight enough to make a drum sander roller
Answer: anything with a 3/4 in hole like a hand truck to a wagon wheel with 3/4 in bearings.
Question: what pneumatic 13 inch tires work on this rod
Answer: Maybe, if u heat it

National Hardware N179-804 4005BC Smooth Rods in Zinc, 1/2" x 36"

National Hardware

Based on 306 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Whether for home, farm, builder or industrial customers, National has all the right hardware in the sizes and finishes you need. With over a century of service National is committed to maintaining the highest level of product quality, innovation and manufacturing technology. Quality metal sheets and rod both threaded and smooth for all for your construction projects. Plated steel has increased resistance to corrosion thanks to its zinc-plated and galvanized finishes. Perforated tubes, slotted flats and angles, smooth rods and threaded rods are among the top popular plated steel products. Zinc plating offers corrosion resistance for all of your functional hardware needs.

From the Manufacturer

Whether for home, farm, builder or industrial customers, National has all the right hardware in the sizes and finishes you need. With over a century of service National is committed to maintaining the highest level of product quality, innovation and manufacturing technology. Quality metal sheets and rod both threaded and smooth for all for your construction projects. Plated steel has increased resistance to corrosion thanks to its zinc-plated and galvanized finishes. Perforated tubes, slotted flats and angles, smooth rods and threaded rods are among the top popular plated steel products. Zinc plating offers corrosion resistance for all of your functional hardware needs.

  • Manufactured from steel
  • Designed for axels on wagons, carts, etc., and other do-it yourself projects
  • Can be drilled, heated, shaped, etc.
  • LifeSpan Limited Lifetime Warranty
  • WeatherGuard finish for superior corrosion resistance
  • Manufactured from steel
  • Designed for axels on wagons, carts, etc. and other do-it yourself projects
  • Can be drilled, heated, shaped, etc

User questions & answers

Question: can this rod be thread? I'm trying to make a custome buffer with 2 or 3 buffer wheels on one end
Answer: This is only a 1/4 inch bar. Best use is for axle for wheels on a wagon , cart ect.
Question: Is this good for diy barbell
Answer: Yes, I cut it with a hacksaw.
Question: I want to build a push-along riding toy for a toddler. Can this rod be cut in half to use for both the front and back axle
Answer: Yes
Question: Can this be made to custom lenth (43 inches
Answer: That should work fine, I used the one I bought to make an axle for a chipper that gets used and is stored outside and it still has not rusted in 2 years.

National Hardware N179-812 4005BC Smooth Rod in Zinc plated,5/8" x 36"

National Hardware

Based on 477 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Whether for home, farm, builder or industrial customers, National has all the right hardware in the sizes and finishes you need. With over a century of service National is committed to maintaining the highest level of product quality, innovation and manufacturing technology. Quality metal sheets and rod both threaded and smooth for all for your construction projects. Plated steel has increased resistance to corrosion thanks to its zinc-plated and galvanized finishes. Perforated tubes, slotted flats and angles, smooth rods and threaded rods are among the top popular plated steel products. Zinc plating offers corrosion resistance for all of your functional hardware needs.

From the Manufacturer

Whether for home, farm, builder or industrial customers, National has all the right hardware in the sizes and finishes you need. With over a century of service National is committed to maintaining the highest level of product quality, innovation and manufacturing technology. Quality metal sheets and rod both threaded and smooth for all for your construction projects. Plated steel has increased resistance to corrosion thanks to its zinc-plated and galvanized finishes. Perforated tubes, slotted flats and angles, smooth rods and threaded rods are among the top popular plated steel products. Zinc plating offers corrosion resistance for all of your functional hardware needs.

  • Authorized Replacement for Stanley Hardware Stock #N179-812
  • Designed for axles on wagons, carts, and other do-it-yourself projects
  • Can be drilled, cut, heated, shaped
  • Not recommended for welding due to zinc plating

User questions & answers

Question: can I weld this steel
Answer: I used a cutting torch no problem, I think this rod is mild steel
Question: How easy is it to cut and drill, torch or hack saw
Answer: I used 4 pcs 5/8" dia. for axles for my 400lb welding machine and they bent a little. I think 3/4" would have been better for my application. My best guess is about 200lb for 1" dia. for a point load without deformation if the materials are the same. If you weld or heat it good, that will change. I am not an engineer.
Question: On a piece with a 1-inch diameter how much weight can this hold with a 6 and 9/16 Tang sticking out unsupported
Answer: it would work fine use collar locks for wheels or drill 1/8 hole for cotter pins
Question: Would this work for an axle with 2 NEW 10" AIR Tires Wheels 5/8" on a surf fishing cart made of sch40 pvc
Answer: I'm sure that it can with the correct sure I'm sure it can with the correct die, but why not just but a threaded rod.

18-8 Stainless Steel Fully Threaded Rod, 3/8"-16 Thread Size, 36" Length, Right Hand Threads

Small Parts

Based on 226 reviews Check latest price

Product description

  • Fully threaded rod
  • Made of 18-8 stainless steel for corrosion resistance

User questions & answers

Question: can this be bent into a U-shape to fit around a wooden pole (to secure a basketball backboard)? What would be the best way to bend into a u-shape
Answer: 18-8 is fine for outside a home. 316 is more rust resistant though, and should be the only stainless used in harsher (marine) applications.
Question: Is this "18-8 stainless steel fully threaded rod, 3/8" rust proof to install outdoor
Answer: It’s course. 16 threads per inch. 3/8 - 24 would be fine.
Question: Is this "fine" thread
Answer: Yes.
Question: Is this single start threading
Answer: I did, it kills the zinc plate

Idahone Fine Ceramic Sharpening Rod (12", Black Handle)

Idahone

Based on 158 reviews Check latest price

Product description

At Idahone, we know your cutlery is an investment—maintaining a precision edge is essential to preserving your blades for a lifetime of use. Our top-of-the-line, high-alumina ceramic knife sharpeners, ceramic honing rods, bench stones, and pocket sharpeners have been designed to deliver a razor-sharp edge for any steel cutting implement from culinary, collectible, utility and pocket knives to scissors, straight razors, tools and machine blades. High-alumina ceramic has a near-diamond hardness, making it the ideal choice for keeping Japanese or European-style blades at their sharpest and ready for the rigorous demands of daily use by even the most discerning chefs. Every Idahone product is sourced and produced in the USA with superior materials and workmanship. Our handles and bases are handcrafted with hard rock maple or fine oak and come in several easy-to-use configurations. Whether you’re a novice home cook, culinary hobbyist, or professional chef, our tools keep your tools at their best.

  • From the legendary Idahone -- Trusted and used by professional and home chefs
  • Made of high alumina ceramic with a grit rating approximately 1200-1500
  • Near diamond hardness yields a remarkable cutting ability for a perfect honing result
  • Quality handles are hand crafted from hard rock maple and come with a hanging ring
  • Sourced and produced in the USA

User questions & answers

Question: What is the grit rating
Answer: It is one honing rod per box. That’s all you should ever need since they can last a lifetime (unless you drop or damage it).
Question: How many rods come in the box
Answer: No it's way to wide to fit between the serrates
Question: Can you use this on serrated knives like steak knives
Answer: The fine grit is rated approximately 1200-1500.
Question: Oh, I see it is just one ceramic sharpening rod. What grit or grain quality is this for? 1200, 3000, or what
Answer: The best way to bend it would be to use a metal bender. Harbor Freight has a variety for cheap. I think for 3/8" diameter, you can use the bender that costs like $12

Sutemribor 3mm x 300mm Stainless Steel Model Straight Metal Round Shaft Rod Bars for DIY RC Car, RC Helicopter Airplane (5 PCS)

Based on 56 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Package Includes:



5 PCS 3mm x 300mm Model Straight Metal Round Shaft Rod Bars

Note: the product are small parts, keep away from children and kids.

  • √ Color: Silver
  • √ Material: Stainless Steel
  • √ Size: 3mm x 300mm (D*L)
  • √ For DIY RC Model, Model Toy
  • √ Widely used in Gear shaft, motor shaft, short support shaft, shaft pocket model, miniature axle, model plane, model ship, model cars.

User questions & answers

Question: Can this be bent like a loop
Answer: It's not soft, but you can bend it with tools.
Question: Is this soft enough to bend
Answer: The order of it I got was polished and fit into the bores of my 3mm bearings with no problems.
Question: Is this item polished or shiney
Answer: The grit rating is approximately 1200-1500.

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