Abstract: A semi-continuous "push-pull" pickle line for removing oxides from hot-rolled steel strip. In addition to other value added features, a treatment portion of the pickle line includes: (1) a two-high temper mill operable to break scale on the strip as well as elongate, shape correct and controllably reduce the gauge of the strip; (2) a pickling zone including at least one V-shaped, shallow-path pickling tank within which a plurality of sparging ports dispense substantially laminar flows of acid solution toward the bottom surface of the strip as it passes through the pickling tank; and (3) a displaceable inspection table desirably cooperating with lights and mirrors to permit simultaneous inspection of the top and bottom surfaces of the steel after pickling.