Silver, I make my calf irons 4 1/2 to 5 inchs tall and yrl./adult around 6 to 6 1/2. The face thickness is 1/4 inch and makes a thicker brand print maybe 3/8 to 1/2.

I've used round stock also only thing I've noticed is if the animal moves the iron may slide easier than something with a flat face, esp. on the shoulder.

Don't want to hurry just get done before dark   My brandings never as fun for me as going to others is. I guess it all the prep. and worrying.

I've found stainless heats up in about 2/3 thirds the time but looses heat almost twice as fast  just to hot for the first calf and can't get a second calf done with same iron. The mild steel just seems to print a better brand that scabs and heals better :?  Hard to explain.