Steels are available in coarse, medium, and fine grain. They may be round or oval and are made in varying lengths and diameter. the lenth of the steel's working surface can range from 3 inches for a pocket version to over 14 inches. the easiest and safest lenght for a steel is at least 2 to 3 inches longer than the blade of your chef's knife.
Hard steel is the traditional material for steel. other material, such as glass, ceramic, and dimond-impregnated surfaces, are also available. those made of metal are magnetic, which helps the blade retain proper alignment and also collect metal shavings. ceramic and dimond-impregnated steels are not magnetic.
A guard or hilt between the steel and the handle protects the user, and a ring on the bottom of the handle can be used to hang the steel.