I have heard that the best wrenches are made using steels containing
vanadium. I usually use 1045, 4140, or S1, just because that's what I
have laying around. I only heat treat things when they are going to get
rough treatment. Usually, I forge to rough shape and machine the
important dimension.

Pete Stanaitis
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Pete Snell wrote:

Hi All;

I need to make a special 'box end' wrench for a particular job I do
frequently. It's not complicated, overall dimensions would be about
1.25" X 6" X 1/4". One end would have the special shape machined in, and
the other end would have a 3/8" square hole for a 3/8" ratchet. Regular
mild steel deforms with regular use, so I lose the good fit on the
fastener after I've used it a couple of times. I want to use some
tougher stuff, but I'm not sure what would be best. 4130 hardened and
tempered after machining?

Pete