In my experience,by far the best material for making firing pins is Drill rod [Silver steel in the U.K.] this centreless ground rod is available in a range of small diameters. It is usually possible to select a rod diameter that is close to the largest dimaeter of any firing pin you might plan to replace. The steel grades available ranges from from High Carbon to A.2.Tool steel. I use the high carbon steel because it is easy to harden and temper. Case hardening is not recommended or required for High Carbon steel.I think that the A.2 grade would not require any heat treatment because of the high alloy content when used as a firing pin.
Last edited by Roy Hebbes; 02/17/09 09:50 PM.
