Charles Schreck, a retiree who engraves mainly as hobby, decided to do a quick experiment with this $5 Wal-Mart mug to practice on a curved surface. He soon found out that the thin, inconsistent stainless steel meant lots of resharpening for the tip of his graver. Whereas some metals like gold or copper are softer and easier to cut, most hard steels will dull or break a graver tip in no time.

After trying several carbide and GlenSteel gravers, Schreck picked up a GRS X-7 HSS graver. In contrast with the others this X-7 graver lasted 2-3 times longer according to Schreck. Although this mug was just a little fun experiment, with it's generic English setter and low cost, Charles Schreck learned a lot about what to use with the harder steels. While laughing Schreck commented, "It was an experience to do it, but I don't know if I'd care to do it again."

He also mentioned that since he engraves a fair amount of gun parts, the X-7 gravers work the best for staying sharp. It's always a good idea to check around about the type of metal used to make a firearm or knife -- this knowledge can save you hours of frustration.