The Rice SS rods are just over $20, and shipping is very reasonable.Stainless one piece rods are nice but pricey. Some stainless is softer than the mild steel i use and tend to pick up grit , Jointed stainless are right up there with jointed aluminum in terms of snapping joints at the most inopportune time. This thread reminded me of all the shop time we made drilling out busted rods back in the day.