any suggestions for straightening out steel leader wire?

[DB731]

I got some 360 lb test stainless steel wire that is a bit softer than other brands, so when it comes off the 6 or so inch diameter coil, it stays curved. I tried the drill/vise and drill/wooden block routine, nope. It stays curved. I am working with a 12" section and would like to make it nice and straight for a bucktail.

The packaging says that is indeed one of the applications, and it was made in the US. Is there any way of achieving this, or should I just take it back and buy a more suitable brand (I can think of two that mention the word "straightened" on the packaging, even though they are sold as coils).

Thanks

 

[Lthall]

You could try heating it while stretching it. I have seen that work occasionally.

 

[DB731]

You could try heating it while stretching it. I have seen that work occasionally.

You're gonna love this high-tech method: with a gloved hand I was able to straighten it out considerably in less than 5 minutes. The 218lb wire I was able to make look like an arrow shaft with the same method.

However, if I am able to straighten out the 360# by hand, then I am guessing it's too soft for a spinner body, i.e. blades will bend it and then they won't rotate properly.