10 Best TIG Filler Rods for 2026: Top Picks

A bad filler rod can ruin a clean weld before you even start. You get porosity, sticky feed, contamination, or a bead that won’t hold, and half the time the rod is the culprit. This list focuses on rods that deliver reliable metallurgy, consistent feed, and practical packaging so you can pick the right option for repairs, fabrication, or hobby work. Use these picks to match rod chemistry, diameter, and pack size to your projects and avoid common pitfalls like contamination, stickiness, or wasted material.

Top Picks

How We Chose These Rods

You get a dependable stainless TIG rod built for everyday shop work and repairs on 304/304L-type stainless. The rods arrive clean and straight in a sleeve so you can start welding without chasing contamination. They lay in with consistent puddle control and good penetration. Use them for routine repairs, exhaust and bracket work, small fabrication projects, or creative metalcraft like jump rings and chainmail. If you want an easy-to-use ER308L option that balances workshop quantity with reliable performance, these are a solid choice to keep on the shelf. A top-rated choice on Amazon with over 200 verified reviews.

What People Say

You’ll notice reviewers commonly praise how clean and straight the rods are out of the sleeve and how they produce solid, predictable welds. People also appreciate the pack size and the protective sleeve that helps keep rods ready to use. A few users mention the rods are shorter than some alternatives and that the thinner 1/16″ size can bend in tight spots, but overall the consensus points to dependable performance and good value.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

DIY Tips

Keep the rods dry and store them in the sleeve or a sealed container between sessions. Clean the base metal with a suitable solvent, use pure argon shielding, and feed the rod gently into the puddle with a comfortable 2-4″ stick-out.

For thin stainless, take your time with heat control and let the puddle tell you when to add filler. For thicker joints, use slightly higher travel speed and steady filler additions. If you’re doing decorative or repetitive small parts, mark a few practice beads to dial in your gas flow and foot or fingertip control.

Solves

These rods make routine stainless repair and fabrication easier by minimizing contamination-related defects and giving you predictable weld behavior. They help when you need consistent filler for patching, attaching brackets, or welding thin tubing, reducing cleanup time and the chance of underfill or weak joints.

Key Benefits

• Clean, low-contamination rods for tidy welds
• Consistent feed and reliable arc stability
• Good penetration and strength on 300-series stainless
• Comes in a protective sleeve to reduce handling contamination
• 5 lb pack keeps you stocked for repeated jobs

Watch Out For

• The 1/16″ diameter can bend in tight spots or awkward joint angles
• Some users find the 16″ length creates more waste on long, uninterrupted runs

Pick this if: You need a reliable 5 lb shop stock of 1/16″ ER308L for regular stainless repairs and fabrication on 304/304L.

Skip this if: You only need a small pack for occasional repairs; the 5 lb quantity may be more than a casual hobbyist needs at once.

Rating: 4.7 (total: 200+)

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You get a tidy pack of ER308L rods built for light fabrication and repair on 304/304L stainless. The 1/16″ diameter feeds smoothly into the puddle, making it easier to control thin-gauge work and reduce cleanup. The rods come separated in a reusable tube, which keeps them cleaner than loose bundles. That makes them handy for bench work, tubing repairs, and small shop projects. If you do occasional stainless TIG work and want a no-nonsense, easy-to-use option, this set is worth keeping in your kit.

What People Say

You’ll notice reviewers consistently point to how clean the rods arrive and how steady they feed during TIG work. People appreciate the convenient tube packaging and say the rods make tidy beads with minimal spatter, especially on thinner stainless. A few buyers mention the pack size isn’t ideal for high-volume jobs and the tube could be sturdier for long-term storage, but overall the feedback is that these rods perform exactly as expected for light fabrication and repairs.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

DIY Tips

Store the tube in a dry place and keep the rods in the original container until you need them. Clean the base metal with a solvent, use pure argon shielding, and set amps appropriate for 1/16″ stainless, typically in the mid-range for thin material. Feed the rod steadily with a short stick-out and practice a couple of beads to tune travel speed and foot control before tackling important joints.

Solves

These rods simplify thin-stainless TIG by offering predictable arc stability and clean filler that reduces post-weld cleanup. They’re useful when you need to repair tubing, attach brackets, or make neat welds on sheet without fighting contamination or excessive spatter.

Key Benefits

• Smooth feed for better puddle control
• Low-carbon ER308L suited to 304 stainless
• Individually separated in a reusable tube
• Clean rods with minimal surface oxidation
• Good choice for precise, low-volume work

Watch Out For

• The 20-piece count runs out quickly on multi-pass or longer fabrication jobs
• The reusable tube could be sturdier for extended shelf storage

Pick this if: You’re new to TIG welding stainless and want a small, beginner-friendly pack with clean, easy-feeding rods in protective packaging.

Skip this if: You weld stainless regularly and need bulk quantity; you’ll burn through a 20-piece set fast on any real production work.

Rating: 5.0 (total: 7+)

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You get a straightforward mild steel filler rod that does exactly what you need for everyday TIG repairs and small fabrication. The ER70S-6 chemistry lays in smoothly, so tack joints, brackets, and light structural repairs come together without fuss. It’s compact enough for hobby work yet durable enough for routine shop tasks. It’s the sort of rod you reach for when you want predictable melt and minimal surprises. Strong value for the price, especially for welders who don’t need a large bulk supply.

What People Say

Most users note the rods flow nicely and produce predictable welds, making simple repairs and small builds much easier. People also point out the packaging is basic and could use a sturdier container, but the rods themselves are seen as good value and perform reliably for routine mild steel TIG work.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

DIY Tips

Keep the rods dry and store them in a sealed container if the original box feels flimsy. Clean the joint area, use the proper shielding gas, and dial your amps for 1/16″ mild steel so the puddle stays controllable. Feed the rod steadily with short additions and practice a few beads to lock in comfortable travel speed and torch angle.

Solves

These rods smooth out common small-shop headaches by offering dependable melt and steady arc behavior, which reduces rework and makes it easier to dress beads quickly. They’re especially handy when you need a no-nonsense filler for brackets, repairs, and hobby builds.

Key Benefits

• Reliable melting and good puddle control
• Consistent feed for tidy beads
• Works well for general repairs and hobby projects
• Affordable alternative to shop-brand rods
• Simple to store and handle for occasional use

Watch Out For

• The basic box packaging isn’t ideal for long-term rod storage; transfer to a sealed container
• At 2 lb, you’ll need to reorder sooner if mild steel is your primary material

Pick this if: You want an affordable 2 lb pack of 1/16″ mild steel filler for hobby builds and occasional repairs without spending much.

Skip this if: You do high-volume mild steel TIG work; the small pack and basic packaging won’t hold up for busy shop use.

Rating: 4.6 (total: 105+)

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You get a dependable mild steel filler built for everyday TIG repairs, hobby projects, and light fabrication. The ER70S-6 chemistry melts predictably and gives you a controllable puddle, so tack joints, brackets, and small structural fixes come together without drama. These rods are compact enough for bench work but robust enough for routine shop tasks. They’re a convenient option when you want straightforward performance and minimal fuss. A customer favorite with over 400 verified reviews and consistently well-reviewed across multiple buying cycles.

What People Say

Readers tend to highlight the predictable flow and clean welding behavior, saying the rods do what you’d expect for mild steel TIG work. Many appreciate the overall quality compared with shop-brand alternatives, while a common concern is the shorter 16″ length that can lead to more waste during long runs. Packaging gets occasional criticism, but performance on the bench is generally praised.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

DIY Tips

Store the rods somewhere dry and transfer them to a sealed container if the original box feels flimsy. Clean the joint surface, use the right shielding gas, and set amps appropriate for 1/16″ mild steel so the puddle stays manageable. If you find the rod length limiting, save offcuts or use unused ends for practice beads so material doesn’t go to waste.

Solves

These rods help you avoid inconsistent melts and messy beads, cutting down on rework for small repairs and fabrication tasks. They’re especially useful when you need a no-nonsense filler for brackets, light structural work, and hobby projects, though the shorter length means you may need to manage leftover pieces more carefully.

Key Benefits

• Reliable melt and steady arc control
• Consistent feed for tidy beads
• Good for general repairs and hobby builds
• Durable enough for routine shop use
• Easy to handle for beginners and pros alike

Watch Out For

• The 16″ length produces more offcut waste during long, uninterrupted weld runs
• Packaging can feel flimsy; store rods in a sealed container for best results

Pick this if: You run frequent mild steel TIG jobs and want a 5 lb bulk supply at strong value without paying shop-brand prices.

Skip this if: You need longer rods for nonstop production runs; the 16″ length means more rod changes and potential waste.

Rating: 4.7 (total: 400+)

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You’re looking at a heavier-gauge ER308L rod meant for jobs where more filler and deeper penetration matter. The 3/32″ diameter gives you faster deposition on thicker joints and makes fabricating brackets, exhaust sections, and structural stainless repairs more efficient. The rods arrive clean and straight with a protective sleeve, which helps cut down on prep. For routine shop work and projects that need a sturdier bead, this is a practical choice to keep on the shelf. Highly rated by verified buyers for solid penetration on 304-type stainless.

What People Say

Customers tend to appreciate the heavier gauge for jobs that need more filler and note the rods come clean and straight out of the sleeve. Many users report solid penetration and reliable bonding on 304-type stainless, while a few mention they’d like longer rod lengths for nonstop runs. Overall feedback points to dependable shop performance and consistent weld quality.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

DIY Tips

Store the rods in their sleeve or a sealed box to keep them dry. Clean the joint, use pure argon shielding, and raise amps appropriately for 3/32″ stainless so the puddle wets out without burning through. Feed the rod steadily, use slightly faster travel on thicker material, and practice a few beads to settle in your torch angle and travel speed.

Solves

These rods make mid-weight stainless repairs and fabrication simpler by providing consistent filler and better penetration than thinner rods, which reduces the number of passes and the need for excessive cleanup.

Key Benefits

• Higher deposition for thicker joints
• Good penetration and strong welds on 300-series stainless
• Clean rods with minimal surface contaminants
• Protective sleeve reduces handling contamination
• Large pack keeps you stocked for shop tasks

Watch Out For

• The 3/32″ diameter is harder to control on thin-gauge stainless; stick to 1/16″ for sheet work
• Some users would prefer rods longer than 16″ for uninterrupted heavy runs

Pick this if: You’re welding thicker stainless sections and need higher deposition and better penetration than a 1/16″ rod provides.

Skip this if: You primarily weld thin-gauge stainless; the 3/32″ diameter is harder to control on light sheet metal and risks burn-through.

Rating: 4.7 (total: 200+)

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You get a heavier-gauge mild steel filler that’s useful when you need more deposition than thinner rods provide. These 3/32″ ER70S-6 rods melt predictably and lay in a solid bead, so they work well for brackets, exhaust sections, small structural fixes, and hobby fabrication. They’re a practical pick for both everyday shop tasks and occasional heavier repairs. They’re easy to handle whether you’re getting comfortable with TIG or just need a no-nonsense filler for routine work. One of the better options at this price point for mid-weight mild steel jobs.

What People Say

People commonly note the rods flow well and produce consistent welds, making straightforward repairs and small projects easier. Reviewers often mention the packaging is basic and recommend sturdier storage, but most agree the rod quality itself is solid and reliable for general-purpose mild steel TIG work.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

DIY Tips

Keep the rods dry and transfer them to a sealed container if the box feels flimsy. Clean the joint area, use appropriate shielding gas, and set amps for 3/32″ mild steel to avoid burn-through while getting good penetration. Feed the rod with steady additions and practice a couple of beads to lock in comfortable travel speed and torch angle.

Solves

These rods reduce the fuss of underfilled joints and uneven beads by offering consistent deposition and arc behavior, which cuts down on cleanup and rework for common shop repairs and light fabrication.

Key Benefits

• Higher deposition for thicker joints
• Predictable melt and steady puddle control
• Good for structural and repair work
• Durable enough for regular shop use
• Simple to use for beginners and experienced welders

Watch Out For

• Basic packaging doesn’t protect rods well for extended storage; use a sealed container
• At 2 lb, you’ll reorder often if mild steel fabrication is your main focus

Pick this if: You need a 3/32″ mild steel filler for heavier joints, brackets, or structural repairs and want a no-fuss, affordable pack.

Skip this if: You need bulk supply or better packaging for long-term storage; the 2 lb box won’t last for busy shop schedules.

Rating: 4.6 (total: 105+)

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You’re looking at a compact 1 lb pack of ER308L rods aimed at occasional stainless work and small repairs. These rods are handy when you want a short, ready-to-use supply for tubing, brackets, and patch jobs. The low-splatter chemistry helps keep cleanup to a minimum. They arrive bundled and are easy to carry to the bench or garage, making them practical for hobbyists and DIYers who don’t need bulk spools. If you want a convenient one-pound option for light stainless TIG tasks, these give you usable performance without fuss.

What People Say

You’ll see many users praising how these rods flow and how well they work for small stainless repairs. Many mention the convenience of a one-pound pack and that the rods weld cleanly with minimal spatter. A few buyers note packaging and machine-compatibility issues, especially on lower-power rigs, but overall people find them reliable for light-duty stainless TIG work.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

DIY Tips

Keep the rods in a dry place and use the original bundle or a sealed container to prevent surface oxidation. Clean the joint, run pure argon shielding, and set amps appropriate for 1/16″ stainless so the puddle stays controllable. Practice a couple of beads to dial in travel speed and torch angle before you tackle important joints.

Solves

These rods simplify small stainless repairs by offering predictable filler behavior and reduced cleanup, which saves time on brackets, tubing, and patch jobs. They’re particularly useful when you need a compact pack rather than large spools.

Key Benefits

• Low-splatter, corrosion-resistant ER308L chemistry
• Short 16″ length that’s convenient for bench work
• Good flow for tidy beads on 300-series stainless
• Available in 1 lb packs for small projects
• Compact bundle that’s easy to store and transport

Watch Out For

• Some users on lower-power TIG machines report compatibility issues; verify your machine’s amperage range
• At 1 lb, this pack is for occasional use only; it won’t last for production-level stainless work

Pick this if: You want a compact, affordable 1 lb project pack for occasional stainless bench work without committing to bulk quantity.

Skip this if: You run a high-power TIG rig or need rods for production jobs; some users have noted machine-compatibility issues on certain setups.

Rating: 4.5 (total: 59+)

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You get a compact one-pound pack of ER308L rods aimed at hobbyists and small-shop work where clean, predictable filler matters. The rods are described as clean and easy to feed, and they work well for 304 stainless repairs, exhaust work, and bracket attachments. They come in a manageable length that’s convenient for bench jobs and quick fixes. They’re a sensible choice when you want usable stainless performance without hunting down spool-length rods. Good value for hobby and light fabrication work.

What People Say

You’ll find most users praise how clean the rods arrive and how well they weld on 304 stainless, highlighting steady feed and minimal spatter. People also note the convenience of the one-pound format and tidy packaging when present, while a minority report occasional debris or basic bundling that could use better protection. Overall, the consensus leans toward solid everyday performance for non-critical projects.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

DIY Tips

Keep these rods dry and store them in a sealed tube or container to avoid surface oxidation. Clean your joint and use pure argon shielding, then set amps appropriate for 1/16″ stainless so the puddle stays controllable. Feed the rod with steady, short additions and run a few practice beads to dial in travel speed and torch angle before the important welds.

Solves

These rods help you avoid contamination-related defects and reduce post-weld cleanup, making small stainless repairs and light fabrication quicker and more predictable. They’re a good fit when you need dependable filler without buying bulk rolls.

Key Benefits

• Low-splatter ER308L chemistry for cleaner finishes
• Consistent feed and good arc stability
• Compact 1 lb pack for bench and small repairs
• Protected packaging options reduce surface contamination
• Good value for hobby and light fabrication work

Watch Out For

• Some users report occasional debris or inconsistent bundling; inspect rods before use
• Not suited for critical structural welds where full cert-grade filler is required

Pick this if: You want the most affordable 1 lb stainless option for non-critical repairs and hobby projects on 304 stainless.

Skip this if: You need guaranteed packaging consistency; a small number of buyers report bundling quality issues on some orders.

Rating: 4.4 (total: 25+)

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You get a compact pack of 1/16″ ER308L rods that work well for bench repairs, tubing fixes, and small stainless projects. The low-splatter chemistry helps keep cleanup minimal, and the 16″ length is handy when you’re doing short runs or working in tight spaces. These are a practical choice when you want predictable feed and clean beads without hauling spool-length wire to the garage. A smart buy for occasional stainless use when you need more than a starter pack but less than bulk quantity.

What People Say

You’ll find people often remark that the rods flow well and make neat welds on 300-series stainless, which saves time on finishing. Reviewers also like the compact pack size for occasional repairs, and a few mention packaging could be sturdier for longer storage. Overall impressions lean toward reliable, no-nonsense performance for light stainless TIG work.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

DIY Tips

Store the rods dry and keep them in the original bundle or a sealed container to prevent surface oxidation. Clean the joint, use pure argon shielding, and set amps appropriate for 1/16″ stainless so the puddle stays controllable. Feed steadily with short additions and run practice beads to dial in travel speed and torch angle before important welds.

Solves

These rods help reduce post-weld cleanup and cut down on contamination issues, making small stainless repairs and fabrications faster and more predictable. They’re especially useful when you need neat beads on tubing, brackets, or patch jobs without buying large spools.

Key Benefits

• Low-splatter formulation for easier cleanup
• Consistent feed for tidy beads
• Corrosion-resistant ER308L chemistry
• Convenient 30-piece pack for small jobs
• Good for bench work and tight spaces

Watch Out For

• Packaging could be sturdier; transfer to a sealed container if storing for more than a few weeks
• The 30-piece count won’t last for extended or multi-project shop use

Pick this if: You want a mid-size 30-piece pack that’s enough for several bench repair jobs without committing to bulk quantity.

Skip this if: You need long-term storage; the packaging isn’t robust enough for extended shelf life without a secondary container.

Rating: 4.6 (total: 19+)

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You get a tidy one-pound pack of ER308L rods that are ideal when you need clean, predictable filler for small stainless jobs. The slightly longer 17″ length gives you a bit of extra reach for bench work and short runs. The rods arrive clean and ready to weld. Use them for patching, exhaust work, brackets, and light fabrication where neat beads and minimal cleanup matter. If you want a compact, dependable stainless option for occasional projects, these are worth keeping in your toolbox. Built to deliver a premium finish quality that justifies the compact pack cost.

What People Say

People commonly note the rods arrive clean and weld like trusted stainless brands, which makes small repairs feel straightforward. Reviewers appreciate the convenient pack size and say the rods are well-suited to occasional projects and bench work. A few users mention they prefer longer spool-length options for big jobs, but most find the performance consistent and reliable for non-critical tasks.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

DIY Tips

Store the rods in a dry place and keep them in their original pack or a sealed container to prevent surface oxidation. Clean the joint, use pure argon shielding, and set amps appropriate for 1/16″ stainless so the puddle stays controllable. Feed the rod with short, steady additions and run a few practice beads to dial in torch angle and travel speed before tackling important welds.

Solves

These rods make small stainless repairs less fussy by minimizing surface contamination issues and producing predictable filler behavior, which reduces cleanup time and helps you get neat beads on tubing, brackets, and patch jobs.

Key Benefits

• Clean, low-splatter ER308L chemistry for neater finishes
• 17″ length gives a bit more reach for bench work
• Delivered in clean condition ready for immediate use
• Good for small repairs and light fabrication
• Compact 1 lb pack is easy to store and carry

Watch Out For

• At 1 lb, this pack won’t last for large or production-level stainless jobs
• Buyers preferring spool-length rods for extended runs will need to look at bulk options

Pick this if: You want the cleanest bead finish in the 1 lb stainless category, with a slightly longer 17″ rod for a bit more reach.

Skip this if: You need bulk supply for high-volume stainless work; this 1 lb pack is suited for light, occasional use only.

Rating: 5.0 (total: 6+)

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FAQ

How Do I Choose The Right Filler Rod?

You want the rod chemistry and diameter to match the metal and the job. For 300-series stainless repairs, pick an ER308L rod. For common mild steel work, use ER70S-6. Choose thinner diameters for fine sheet work and thicker diameters for heavier joints. Consider rod length and pack size too, since short 16″ rods are handy for bench work but can create more waste on long runs. Think about whether you need a protective tube or sleeve for storage.

How Should I Store And Prepare Rods To Avoid Contamination?

Keep rods dry and in their original sleeve or a sealed container. Avoid handling the welding ends with greasy fingers, since surface contamination ruins puddle behavior. Clean base metal and filler with a suitable solvent before you weld, use pure argon shielding for stainless, and inspect rods for visible oxidation or debris before feeding them into the puddle.

Why Do My Rods Stick Or Feed Poorly, And How Can I Fix It?

Sticking and poor feed are usually caused by contamination, wrong amperage, weak shielding, or using a rod that’s too short for the job. Try cleaning the rod and joint, confirm your gas flow and nozzle position, and nudge amps up or down to stabilize the puddle. Use a smaller diameter in tight spaces. If your machine struggles with a given rod size or length, pick a different pack or a longer rod to reduce handling issues.

What Welders Prefer

You typically prioritize matching rod chemistry and diameter to the job. Choose ER308L when you need corrosion-resistant, tidy welds on 300-series stainless, and ER70S-6 when you want higher deposition for mild steel repairs. You also look for consistent feed, protective packaging, and the right pack size. The Convivium tube appeals for precision bench work, ARCCAPTAIN for larger shop stocks and solid penetration, and Blulu when you want a simple, reliable mild-steel filler.

Wrapping Up

Now that you have clear options, match rod chemistry and diameter to the metal you’ll be welding and choose pack sizes that reflect how often you weld. If you do stainless repairs or finish work, focus on ER308L picks that deliver clean flow and low spatter. If you work mostly with mild steel, choose ER70S-6 bulk packs for the best value. Keep rods dry and contamination-free and your welds will be stronger, cleaner, and faster to finish. Check the links above to find the right pack for your next project.

Product Name	Image	Rating	Material	Size	Item Weight
ARCCAPTAIN Stainless Steel TIG Welding Rod ER308L		4.7/5 (200 reviews)	ER308L Stainless Steel	1/16″ x 16″	5.41 pounds
Convivium ER308L Stainless Steel TIG Welding Rods 20 Pcs		5.0/5 (7 reviews)	304 Stainless Steel	1/16″ x 16″	6.7 ounces
Blulu Tig Welding Rod ER70S-6		4.6/5 (105 reviews)	ER70S-6 Mild Steel	1/16″ x 16″	2.12 pounds
TOOLIOM Mild Steel TIG Welding Rod ER70S-6		4.7/5 (400 reviews)	Mild Steel	1/16″ x 16″	5.17 pounds
ARCCAPTAIN Stainless Steel TIG Welding Rod ER308L (3/32″)		4.7/5 (200 reviews)	ER308L Stainless Steel	3/32″ x 16″	5.37 pounds
Blulu Tig Welding Rod ER70S-6 (3/32″)		4.6/5 (105 reviews)	ER70S-6 Mild Steel	3/32″ x 16″	2.12 pounds
UNIFAMILY 50pcs Stainless Steel TIG Welding Rod ER308L		4.5/5 (59 reviews)	Stainless Steel	1/16″ x 16″	1 pound
Upgraded Stainless Steel TIG Welding Rods ER308L		4.4/5 (N/A)	Stainless Steel	1/16″ x 16″	15.8 ounces
30 Pcs Stainless Steel TIG Welding Rod ER308L		4.6/5 (19 reviews)	Stainless Steel	1/16″ x 16″	8.8 ounces
WISUNO Stainless TIG Welding Rods ER308L		5.0/5 (6 reviews)	Stainless Steel	1/16″ x 17″	1.08 pounds

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