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Top rated lead rods
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Best overall
McMaster-Carr Low-Carbon Steel Rod, 1/2" Diameter, 3' Length
High-quality low-carbon steel rod with consistent diameter and smooth surface, ideal for general machining and fabrication.
- Good dimensional accuracy
- Versatile for many applications
- Low cost
- May rust without coating
- Length fixed at 3 feet
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Best for high-strength applications
Precision Brand 1144 Stressproof Steel Rod, 1" Diameter, 6' Length
Stressproof steel rod with excellent strength and machinability, suitable for shafts, pins, and tooling.
- High tensile strength
- Good wear resistance
- Precision ground finish
- More expensive than standard steel
- Limited length options
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Best budget pick
K & S Precision Metals 12" Round Brass Rod, 1/8" Diameter
Affordable brass rod that is easy to cut and shape, perfect for hobbies, models, and light-duty projects.
- Very low cost
- Corrosion resistant
- Easy to machine
- Not for heavy load
- Short length
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Best lightweight/strength ratio
TMS Titanium Grade 5 (Ti-6Al-4V) Rod, 1/4" Diameter, 12" Length
High-strength titanium alloy rod with excellent corrosion resistance, ideal for aerospace, medical, and custom parts.
- Very strong for weight
- Non-corrosive
- Biocompatible
- Expensive
- Difficult to machine
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Best for lightweight projects
Alro Steel 6061 Aluminum Rod, 3/4" Diameter, 6' Length
General-purpose aluminum rod with good strength-to-weight ratio, easy to machine and weld.
- Lightweight
- Good strength
- Resists corrosion
- Not as strong as steel
- Can scratch easily
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Best for machining
OnlineMetals 12L14 Lead-Free Steel Rod, 1/2" Diameter, 3' Length
Free-machining steel rod with excellent chip formation, perfect for CNC lathe work and precision parts.
- Excellent machinability
- Consistent quality
- Lead-free
- Not for high-stress applications
- Limited length
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Best corrosion resistance
Accu-Group 304 Stainless Steel Rod, 5/8" Diameter, 4' Length
Stainless steel rod with superior rust resistance, suitable for food processing, marine, and outdoor uses.
- Rust-proof
- Durable
- Easy to clean
- More expensive than carbon steel
- Harder to machine
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Best for plumbing/fittings
MSC Industrial Supply Co. Brass C360 Rod, 1" Diameter, 6' Length
Free-cutting brass rod for threaded parts and fittings, with good conductivity and corrosion resistance.
- Excellent for threading
- Good electrical conductivity
- Attractive appearance
- Not for structural use
- High price for diameter