A36 is a top grade carbon steel alloy. The strength of steel is measured by it's tensile strength calculated in PSI(pounds per sq. inch). A36 has a tensile strength of usually 70,000-80,000 psi. It can vary between batches. So yes A36 is a high quality, high strength steel. A514 steel which is commonly know as T-1 steel, has a tensile strength of no more than 100,000 psi. So for implements and attachments, there is really no need for the added cost of T-1 steel. I've been a welder for 15 years and used more types of steel than most would even know existed. I'm not degrading anyone's product, but personally I'd much rather have 1/2" A36 over any grade of 1/4" steel.