What material should hooks typically be made from?

Hooks are typically made from forged steel due to its strength and durability. Forged steel provides the necessary mechanical properties to withstand heavy loads and resist deformation under stress. The forging process enhances the material's grain structure, resulting in superior tensile strength and toughness. This quality is crucial for hooks, as they are often used in applications involving lifting and securing loads, where failure could lead to safety hazards and equipment damage.

While aluminum can be lightweight, it does not provide the same level of strength as forged steel, making it less suitable for heavy-duty applications. Plastic, on the other hand, is not capable of handling high loads without risking breakage. Stainless steel, although corrosion-resistant and strong, might not be as optimal in terms of weight-to-strength ratio compared to forged steel for certain heavy-duty uses. Therefore, forged steel is the preferred material for hooks in most applications, particularly in environments where strength and safety are priorities.