Steel

Steel was an alloy formed from iron and carbon, and was used in a variety of weapons and armor.

Properties
This common alloy was, in terms of protection, stronger than stone, but less strong than mithral and adamantine.

Applications
Blades around the Realms were crafted from the finest steel for keenness and flexibility. In order to make the edge of the blades perfectly sharp, the steel had to be foldered, pounded and then tempered. Weapons of such quality could cause additional damage in combat.

As well as weapons, armor was typically made from common steel. There were, however, less common varieties of steel, such as fine or elven, which were a lot lighter, but far more expensive. Usually, fine steel armor would cost about twice as much, but elven steel armor was reserved for only those deemed worthy, and thus was not often able for purchase.

Helms of brilliance, enchanted helmets adorned with gems, were made of a combination of silver and strong, polished steel. Light and heavy shields were either formed of wood or steel, and the steel varieties weighed 3 – 30 lbs (1.4 – 14 kg). Chain shirts came with steel caps.

As well as armor and weapons, steel had a variety of other uses. It was used in pitons, and polished steel was used to make mirrors. Striking flint with a piece of steel produced sparks, which could be used to light fires.