I think I just had an epiphany on this... The reason he said it was "raw" is that it is still in the "as-rolled" state. In order to do any machining/grinding, I will have to anneal the material myself by heating to 1450F and then allowing to air cool. This is based on the following table I found online at
http://www.suppliersonline.com/propertypages/5160.asp
Chemistry Data : [top]
Carbon 0.56 - 0.64
Chromium 0.7 - 0.9
Manganese 0.75 - 1
Phosphorus 0.035 max
Silicon 0.15 - 0.35
Sulphur 0.04 max
Principal Design Features 5160 is a carbon-chromium spring steel. It exhibits excellent toughness and high ductility, with a high tensile-yield ratio.
Applications Commonly employed in heavy spring applications primarily in the automotive field for leaf springs.
Machinability Machining this grade can be very difficult in the "as rolled" condition, and the alloy should be annealed prior to machining to obtain maximum speeds and feeds.
Welding Weldability is poor in this alloy due to its high carbon and chromium content. For best results, preheat the section and stress relieve after welding. Either gas or arc welding methods may be used.
Heat Treatment 5160 is normally hardened in oil. Recommended quenching temperature is 1525 F, with a wide range of mechanical available by tempering between 800 and 1300 F.
Forging Forge this grade between 2100 and 2200 F.
Annealing Heat to 1450 F and air cool.