Abstract: A process for producing a killed, low carbon, columbium, boron alloy steel characterized by high strength and an unbanded ferrous microstructure in the as-rolled condition. The steel is hot rolled to form an intermediate section before the steel temperature reaches 1650.degree. F. Below 1650.degree. F, the steel is further reduced with a total minimum reduction of 50% in one embodiment, and 35% in a second embodiment, and in the Ar.sub.3 -Ar.sub.1 temperature range, reduction is a plurality of reduction passes under conditions to permit substantial recrystallization of deformed grains after each pass, with a finishing temperature between 1100.degree.-1150.degree. F in one embodiment, and a finishing temperature between 1350.degree. F and Ar.sub.1 in a second embodiment.