What Is 304 #4 Stainless Steel — and Why Does It Matter in Fabrication?
If you’ve ever ordered stainless steel parts — chances are you’ve heard the term 304 #4 thrown around.
It’s one of the most common finishes in the metal world. But what exactly is it?
At RJ Metals, we use 304 #4 stainless every day for panels, enclosures, countertops, brackets, and more. Here’s what makes it so popular — and why it’s probably the best choice for your next job.
✅ What Does “304 #4” Mean?
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304 refers to the grade of stainless steel. It’s strong, versatile, and resistant to corrosion — making it ideal for indoor and lightly exposed outdoor use.
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#4 refers to the finish. Specifically, it’s a brushed finish with a directional grain. It’s not shiny like a mirror, but not dull either — just clean and modern.
✅ Why Is 304 #4 So Common?
It strikes the perfect balance of:
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✨ Good appearance
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💪 Strength & formability
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🧼 Easy cleaning
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✅ Weldability and machinability
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💲 Cost-effectiveness
That’s why you’ll see it in:
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Restaurants & commercial kitchens
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Hospitals
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Food service equipment
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Architectural trims
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Data centers
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Clean rooms
✅ What We Fabricate with 304 #4 at RJ Metals
We use 304 #4 for:
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Countertops
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Custom wall panels
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Equipment guards
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Access panels
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Cabinet doors
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Light-duty enclosures
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Restaurant prep surfaces
✅ What You Should Know Before Ordering
If you’re specifying 304 #4 stainless, it’s important to:
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Maintain grain direction across visible parts
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Let us know if welds should be blended or left raw
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Confirm any food-safe requirements (we can help with that too)
We’ll laser cut, bend, and finish your parts in-house, so everything matches, fits, and arrives clean.
💬 RJ Metals Insight:
“304 #4 stainless steel is clean, strong, and universally trusted — and we know exactly how to cut, bend, and finish it to spec.”
📞 Need 304 Stainless Cut Right the First Time?
We stock it. We cut it. We finish it. Let’s build something that lasts.
📩 Request a Quote
🌐 Visit: rjmetal.com
📞 Call: 888-631-5880
