Forney 49620 Hot Rolled Plate Review: A Practical and Versatile Choice for Your Projects

Let me start this review by saying that I am no stranger to DIY projects and metalworking. Over the years, I have tried and tested various materials and tools to understand what works best for different applications. Recently, I got my hands on the Forney 49620 Hot Rolled Plate, a product that has been around for quite some time and has garnered a fair amount of attention in the metalworking community. After using it for several weeks, I’m excited to give you an in-depth review of this product. So, sit back, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s dive into what makes this mild carbon steel plate a worthwhile addition to your workshop.

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First Impressions and Unboxing

When I first received the Forney 49620, the packaging was straightforward. As mentioned in the product description, it doesn’t come with any retail packaging, which didn’t bother me at all. It was wrapped securely to prevent any damage during transit, and upon unwrapping, I was greeted with a solid rectangular piece of hot rolled steel. The dimensions are exactly as advertised: 1/4" thick, 4" wide, and 12" long. It's a manageable size for a variety of projects, and the weight (around 1 pound) makes it easy to handle.

Material and Build Quality

The Forney 49620 is made from A36 mild carbon steel, a common structural steel that is known for its versatility and strength. The hot rolling process gives the plate its characteristic rough surface, which might not be the most aesthetically pleasing if you're looking for a smooth finish right out of the box. However, this roughness can be an advantage when it comes to certain applications, such as welding or when you need a surface that can grip onto something else.

In terms of build quality, the plate feels robust and durable. It’s designed to withstand light to medium-duty projects, making it ideal for DIY enthusiasts like myself. It’s not too heavy, but it’s sturdy enough to provide the support and strength needed for various structural applications.

Performance and Versatility in Projects

I’ve used the Forney 49620 in a few different projects to test its capabilities. One of the first things I did was incorporate it into a small welding project where I needed a flat, reliable base. The plate performed exceptionally well, providing the stability I required without warping under the heat. The A36 steel used in this plate is well-regarded for its excellent welding properties, making it a great choice for such applications.

Beyond welding, I found the plate to be quite versatile. It’s suitable for cutting and shaping, and it holds up well under machining processes. I drilled a few holes into it for a mounting project, and the steel didn’t chip or crack, which speaks volumes about its durability. I also used it as a base for a small bench vise, and it provided the necessary sturdiness to handle the pressure and torque exerted during use.

Ease of Use and Handling

The dimensions of the Forney 49620 make it easy to handle, even if you're working alone. The 1/4" thickness is just right for most DIY projects, thick enough to provide strength but not so thick that it becomes cumbersome to work with.

As I mentioned earlier, the rough surface is something to be aware of. While it’s not a deal-breaker, you might want to smooth it out a bit depending on your specific needs. A quick pass with a grinder or sander can easily take care of this if a smoother finish is required for your project.

A Few Considerations

While I thoroughly enjoyed working with the Forney 49620, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. Firstly, the lack of retail packaging might be a concern for some, especially if you’re purchasing it as a gift or for resale. However, for personal use, this is not a significant issue. Secondly, if you’re looking for a perfectly smooth and polished steel plate, you might need to put in a bit of extra work to achieve that finish.

Value for Money

Given the quality and versatility of the Forney 49620, I believe it offers good value for money. It’s priced competitively, especially considering its durability and the range of applications it supports. Whether you're a hobbyist or a professional, this hot rolled plate is a solid investment for your workshop.

Conclusion

All in all, my experience with the Forney 49620 Hot Rolled Plate has been overwhelmingly positive. It’s a reliable, sturdy piece of steel that meets the demands of various projects without breaking the bank. If you're in the market for a versatile and dependable steel plate, I would definitely recommend giving this one a try. Whether you're welding, mounting, or crafting, the Forney 49620 is up to the task.

In summary, this hot rolled plate is a testament to Forney's long-standing reputation in the metalworking industry. Their commitment to quality and functionality shines through in this product, making it a worthy addition to any metalworker’s toolkit.

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