How to distinguish HSS from Keystock?

[tmenyc]

Can one tell the difference between keystock and HSS? I have these three bit blanks...and can't tell without grinding and seeing how easy it is.
thanks!
Tim

 

[ttabbal]

File. Keystock will cut easily.

Those look like Keystock, HSS is usually silver colored and usually has writing on one side telling you what type it is. It also usually has beveled cuts on the ends.

 

[T Bredehoft]

Keystock has a rolled finish, most HHS today is ground.

 

[dulltool17]

Looks like key stock to me. File is a definitive test tool.

 

[tmenyc]

keystock it is...cut like butter, I forgot how easy it was!
thanks, guys.
Tim

 

[mmcmdl]

Hit it on a corner with a hammer .

Ooops , late to the game .

 

[tmenyc]

next time!
Tim

 

[Ulma Doctor]

take a little bite out of them, hss will chip a tooth-
keystock will yield

 

[tmenyc]

I'll have to check the rakes on my teeth first...

 

[Silverbullet]

I have some old high speed which isn't ground so it does exist that way.