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Introducing the 3½% Nickel Steel Welding Rod, developed for use in our space program to offer the highest quality welds possible. This welding rod is known for its near total absence of impurities and smooth flow, producing an extremely non-porous weld with oxy-acetylene or TIG. Gunsmiths have found this rod to be particularly useful in welding bolt handles and other items that require polishing after welding. Fortunately, we have found a supplier for this welding rod thanks to Jim Thompson of Maverick Gun Works in Topeka, Kansas.

According to Jim, "I finally located some 3½% Nickel Steel Rod and the first bolt I welded was perfect. The rod is expensive but worth its weight in gold when you are welding bolt handles and any other job where a perfect weld is desired."

When using this welding rod, Jim suggests bringing the parts to welding temperature with a larger flame, then reducing the flame until it is just hissing. A No. 2 tip is recommended (but you might find a different one works better), and it is important to take your time and not overheat the metal. Once welded, the material is easy to work with using a file or machine. A neutral flame is necessary, and there is no flux or other coding on the rod.