I have seen references to Grey Scotch-Brite pads for various purposes, not the least of which is for creating a "water break free" surface before epoxying components. The only grey Scotch-Brite pads I have seen in pictures is an ultra-fine texture. I have yet to see one in the flesh. It seems one must order them over the internet. Are these not sold in any store selling Scotch Brite products? All that I have checked...Home Depot, Lowes, Ace Hardware etc. have ended in a bust.

Is there any reason that I cannot use 4-0 steel wool to achieve the same result?

Most steel wools are oil coated, which you probably don’t want near your blanks and other components.

[www.rodbuilding.org]

Read that library article on water break free surfaces as to why Scotch Brite is the desired material.

On surfaces that will be covered/unseen, I've used regular green scotch brite with great results.

Even my small town hardware store has it, they most buy it in large packages as it's in the same old school narrow shelves we have all seen hold sheets of sandpaper.

Ditto on Spencer's comment.

Amazon has the gray pads in small or large quantities.

Check auto parts stores. My local Napa auto parts has them.

Wade....Bada Bing! My local NAPA has them.

Thank you.

Paint & Body Shop guys love'm

Little late I know, but never use steel wool. It's filthy. It leaves fine steel hairs everywhere.

Besides the oil and fiber mess, it also ignites very easily and is hard to put out. I saw a spark from the brushes of an electric drill start a pack that was fully aflame, immediately. I’m glad it was on a concrete shop floor away from other fuels.