301 Full Hard Shim Stock is an austenitic stainless steel with a composition of 17% chromium and 7% nickel. Its combination of hardness and toughness, resistance to atmosphere corrosion and its bright surface finish make it an excellent choice for anything from aerospace applications to decorative structural components. 301 Full Hard Stainless Steel is resistant to fatigue and a variety of corrosive media. However, the corrosion properties are not as good as 302/304 (18-8 chromium-nickel) stainless steel. Its susceptibility to carbide precipitation during welding restricts its use in some applications.