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In recent years, there has been a movement to produce newer design hardware of stainless steel. This removes the problem of plating and the environmental problems associated with it. However, stainless is harder on the forging dies and the finishing processes take longer. Consequently, stainless hardware is generally more expensive than carbon steel. 

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All specification hardware has the appropriate number stamped or marked on it. The MS prefix is on those with the MIL-SPEC certification. All with the newer PIA certification have the mark with the PS (Parachute Standards) prefix. [Figure 3-64]  Most of the current hardware has the mark with the MS prefix. As current stocks deplete, the mark on new production is with the PS prefix. 

