Tungsten worm weights.

[J Francho]

The steel and tungsten weights are all steel alloys.  The problem with calling the True Tungsten brand weights "steel" is that its confusing since Bullet brand makes a lighter product labeled as "Steel."  I use both brands of weights, and each has its advantages.  

Tungsten literally means "heavy rock," and due to both its higher density and smaller profile, a comparable tungsten weight will sink in the water column faster than lower density weights.  They are a great way to balance a heavier weight with a smaller profile plastic.  Ever fish a 4" worm with a 3/4 oz. worm weight?  Tungsten makes more sense here.

I also use the steel weights for the exact opposite reason.  I may want a slower fall with a very large profile bait, and the steel allows me to match up the size.  Another good reason to fish steel is in very snaggy situations.  There are some spots I fish locally where you'd be better off using rolls of quarters to weight your rig than tungsten, since it ultimately save you a few dollars, LOL.

In New York State, there is a ban on the sale of lead, due to issues with waterfowl, specifically loons.  I still use lead weights, as I have a pile leftover from the ban many years ago.  Lead is soft, and therefore somewhat pliable which also makes it ideal for fishing chunky rock snag fest areas.  Popping the line like a guitar string before the first guide, several times, will usually free your bait from the jam up.  You'll also see where the weight got caught, if you get it back.

There are some cited side benefits to tungsten, specifically that fact that it transmits more feel back through the blank and that it slides around in the fish's mouth making hooksets easier.  While both may be absolutely true, I don't see what advantage either offers.  How much do really need to feel for it to be an advantage?  For me, inanimate obstructions go bump.  Fish are either nearly undetectable, smash your bait, or somewhere in between.  Any way they strike - they are alive, and totally different than rocks and weeds.

That's my take on it, take it or leave it

[Bassnajr]

Thank you JF....you cleared up any questions I had.

Good info!!!!

ajr

[Catt]

Now if y'all want to split hairs then a chemist is not needed but rather a metallurgist

Tungsten (pronounced /[ch712]t[ch652][ch331]st[ch601]n/), also known as wolfram (/[ch712]w[ch650]lfr[ch601]m/), is a chemical element that has the symbol W and atomic number 74. A steel-gray metal, tungsten is found in several ores, including wolframite and scheelite.

Steel is an alloy consisting mostly of iron, with a carbon content between 0.2 and 2.04% by weight, depending on grade. Carbon is the most cost-effective alloying material for iron, but various other alloying elements are used such as manganese, chromium, vanadium, and tungsten.

Steel's density is 7850 while tungsten is twice that at 19600; Tungsten is often brittle and hard to work in its raw state; however, if pure, it can be cut with a hacksaw. The pure form is used mainly in electrical applications and what we get as bullet weights as true tungsten but a tungsten alloy.

[Tokyo Tony]

Now if y'all want to split hairs then a chemist is not needed but rather a metallurgist

Or a barber.

Sorry, that was terrible.

[LunkerLust]

If the edge of the weight is what's cutting the braid, then why not a soft rubber center like Gambler uses for their Florida worm weights. I use them on smaller rigs because you don't have to peg them, and you can get them with rattles. They're really good for Carolina rigging. I don't think they make them heavier than 1/2 oz. though. It seems like tungsten would be perfect for this application. HELLO MANUFACTURERS ! If there is a drill bit that will cut the tungsten, then maybe I'll buy some of the cheaper weights, listed above, and do it myself.

[Bassnajr]

Tony...BAD!!!!! ;D