Some of the greatest benefits offered by stainless steel are its corrosion and heat resistances. The forging process further increases the strength and durability of stainless steel, making forged parts ideal for use in harsh environments. Forging can create parts that are much stronger than parts created by other processes, such as machining or casting. This is because the grain flow created by forging follows the shape of the workpiece, thus increasing its strength.

There are four different grades of stainless steel, each offering different benefits:
Austenitic. This grade is non-magnetic and has good cryogenic toughness. It also has the highest impact strength out of all four grades.
Martensitic. This grade of stainless steel is highly resistant to pitting corrosion and is very strong.
Precipitation hardening. This grade is fairly strong and tough, with a good fatigue life.
Duplex. With good toughness at room temperature, this grade is also strong and resistant to corrosion.

Common applications
Stainless steel forgings are incredibly strong and resistant to corrosion, making them ideal for use in a versatile range of industries. Some common applications include:
Agriculture, construction, and off-highway. Forging can be used to construct parts for any type of outdoor equipment that needs to withstand harsh environments.
Hand tools. Forged hand tools are generally stronger and more durable than tools which have been cast.
Sports and recreation. Stainless steel forgings are often used to create sports equipment such as golf clubs, or recreational equipment such as garden tools.
Oil. Stainless steel forgings are frequently used to fabricate special application wrenches used in the oil industry.
Rail. The strength and durability offered by forged parts makes them ideal for use in railways.
Firearms and defense. Stainless steel forgings may be used to manufacture gun components and missile guidance systems.
Aerospace. The strength and versatility of stainless steel forgings makes them ideal for use as parts in the aerospace industry.
Gear box. Stainless steel forgings are highly versatile and can be used to create a variety of durable gear parts.
Medical tools. The highly corrosion-resistant nature of forged stainless steel components makes them ideal for use in the medical industry, where forged items may go through repeated sterilization. For example, many surgical tools are forged.
Marine. May be used for fasteners including nuts, bolts, and screws. Corrosion resistance also makes stainless steel forging ideal for marine applications such as pliers.