Handy & Harman 10-K 28 Feb 14 2013 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Feb. 27, 2014	Jun. 28, 2013
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]	'	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'HANDY & HARMAN LTD.	'	'
Trading Symbol	'hnh	'	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000106618	'	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-31	'	'
Entity Filer Category	'Accelerated Filer	'	'
Document Type	'10-K	'	'
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-13	'	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2013	'	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'FY	'	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	12,974,177	'
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	'No	'	'
Entity Voluntary Filers	'No	'	'
Entity Current Reporting Status	'Yes	'	'
Entity Public Float	'	'	$70,800,000

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current Assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$10,300	$15,301
Trade and other receivables - net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $1,981 and $2,004, respectively	77,546	66,628
Inventories, net	65,750	47,530
Deferred income tax assets - current	20,507	24,373
Prepaid and other current assets	9,578	8,016
Assets of discontinued operations	651	32,111
Total current assets	184,332	193,959
Property, plant and equipment at cost, less accumulated depreciation	91,197	81,729
Goodwill	77,512	59,783
Other intangibles, net	48,336	33,218
Investment in associated company	33,983	17,229
Deferred income tax assets	59,686	112,568
Other non-current assets	14,677	13,875
Total assets	509,723	512,361
Current Liabilities:	'	'
Trade payables	34,823	29,530
Accrued liabilities	28,483	25,735
Accrued environmental liabilities	3,213	6,346
Accrued interest - related party	0	634
Short-term debt	304	778
Current portion of long-term debt	12,818	8,943
Deferred income tax liabilities - current	433	1,022
Liabilities of discontinued operations	151	9,160
Total current liabilities	80,225	82,148
Long-term debt	144,069	128,807
Long-term debt - related party	0	19,916
Accrued pension liability	143,705	217,141
Other post-retirement benefit obligations	2,065	5,452
Other liabilities	5,787	6,969
Total liabilities	375,851	460,433
Commitments and Contingencies	'	'
Stockholders' Equity:	'	'
Common stock - $.01 par value; authorized 180,000 shares; issued 13,444 and 13,140 shares, respectively	134	131
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-181,931	-226,168
Additional paid-in capital	565,441	559,970
Treasury stock, at cost - 458 and 0 shares, respectively	-9,796	0
Accumulated deficit	-239,976	-282,005
Total stockholders' equity	133,872	51,928
Liabilities and stockholders' equity	$509,723	$512,361

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]	'	'
Accounts receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts	$1,981	$2,004
Common stock - par value (in dollars per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock - shares authorized (in shares)	180,000,000	180,000,000
Common stock - issued (in shares)	12,985,840	13,140,004
Treasury stock, at cost - 458 and 0 shares, respectively	458,000	0

Consolidated_Income_Statements

Consolidated Income Statements (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Income Statement [Abstract]	'	'	'
Net sales	$655,224	$579,528	$579,764
Cost of goods sold	470,349	410,042	421,886
Gross profit	184,875	169,486	157,878
Selling, general and administrative expenses	128,583	116,383	105,283
Pension expense	5,342	3,313	6,357
Asset impairment charge	0	0	700
Operating income	50,950	49,790	45,538
Other:	'	'	'
Interest expense	13,705	16,719	16,268
Realized and unrealized gain on derivatives	-1,195	-2,582	-418
Other expense	291	439	1,360
Income from continuing operations before tax and equity investment	38,149	35,214	28,328
Tax provision (benefit)	16,028	13,065	-106,088
Gain from associated company, net of tax	-6,006	0	0
Income from continuing operations, net of tax	28,127	22,149	134,416
Discontinued operations:	'	'	'
(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax	-997	4,311	1,678
Gain on disposal of assets, net of tax	14,899	21	2,681
Net income from discontinued operations	13,902	4,332	4,359
Net income	$42,029	$26,481	$138,775
Basic and diluted income per share of common stock	'	'	'
Income from continuing operations, net of tax, per share	$2.12	$1.70	$10.71
Discontinued operations, net of tax, per share	$1.05	$0.33	$0.34
Net income per share (in dollars per share)	$3.17	$2.03	$11.05
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding (in shares)	13,251	13,032	12,555

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Statement of Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net income	$12,497	$9,643	$11,872	$8,017	$4,503	$5,930	$10,952	$5,096	$42,029	$26,481	$138,775
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Changes in pension liability and post-retirement benefit obligations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	68,328	-43,702	-82,805
Tax effect of changes in pension liability and post-retirement benefit obligations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-25,653	14,455	27,211
Change in market value of securities	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	7,113	-14,948	7,835
Tax effect of change in market value of securities	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-3,041	6,054	-3,014
Foreign currency translation adjustments	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-2,510	362	-1,751
Other comprehensive income (loss)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	44,237	-37,779	-52,524
Comprehensive income (loss)	$54,450	$7,694	$12,691	$11,431	($27,411)	$9,551	$1,617	$4,945	$86,266	($11,298)	$86,251

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cha

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity (Deficit) (USD $)	Total	Common Stock	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	Additional Paid-In Capital	Treasury Stock, at Cost	Accumulated Deficit
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Balance at Dec. 31, 2010	($30,160)	$122	($135,865)	$552,844	'	($447,261)
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2010	'	12,179	'	'	'	'
Stockholders' Equity Line Items	'	'	'	'	'	'
Amortization, issuance, and forfeitures of restricted stock grants (in shares)	'	467	'	'	'	'
Amortization, issuance and forfeitures of restricted stock grants	2,907	5	'	2,902	'	0
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale investments, net of tax	4,821	'	4,821	'	'	'
Changes in pension liability and post-retirement benefit obligations, net of tax	-55,594	'	-55,594	'	'	'
Foreign currency translation adjustments	-1,751	'	-1,751	'	'	'
Net income	138,775	'	'	'	'	138,775
Balance at Dec. 31, 2011	58,998	127	-188,389	555,746	'	-308,486
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2011	'	12,646	'	'	'	'
Stockholders' Equity Line Items	'	'	'	'	'	'
Amortization, issuance, and forfeitures of restricted stock grants (in shares)	'	494	'	'	'	'
Amortization, issuance and forfeitures of restricted stock grants	4,228	4	'	4,224	'	0
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale investments, net of tax	-8,894	'	-8,894	'	'	'
Changes in pension liability and post-retirement benefit obligations, net of tax	-29,247	'	-29,247	'	'	'
Foreign currency translation adjustments	362	'	362	'	'	'
Net income	26,481	'	'	'	'	26,481
Balance at Dec. 31, 2012	51,928	131	-226,168	559,970	'	-282,005
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2012	'	13,140	'	'	'	'
Stockholders' Equity Line Items	'	'	'	'	'	'
Amortization, issuance, and forfeitures of restricted stock grants (in shares)	'	304	'	'	'	'
Amortization, issuance and forfeitures of restricted stock grants	5,474	3	'	5,471	'	0
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale investments, net of tax	1,710	'	1,710	'	'	'
Reclassification of unrealized loss on available-for-sale investments, net of tax	2,362	'	2,362	'	'	'
Changes in pension liability and post-retirement benefit obligations, net of tax	42,675	'	42,675	'	'	'
Foreign currency translation adjustments	-2,510	'	-2,510	'	'	'
Purchases of treasury stock	-9,796	'	'	'	-9,796	'
Net income	42,029	'	'	'	'	42,029
Balance at Dec. 31, 2013	$133,872	$134	($181,931)	$565,441	($9,796)	($239,976)
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2013	'	13,444	'	'	'	'

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Cash flows from operating activities:	'	'	'
Net income	$42,029	$26,481	$138,775
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities, net of acquisition:	'	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	16,138	13,343	14,148
Non-cash stock-based compensation	4,860	4,476	3,146
Non-cash gain from associated company	-6,006	0	0
Amortization of debt issuance costs	852	2,654	2,628
Loss (gain) on early retirement of debt	5,662	1,368	-189
Accrued interest not paid in cash	93	1,333	2,358
Deferred income taxes	23,001	11,014	-105,669
Gain from asset dispositions	-63	-145	-50
Asset impairment charge	0	0	700
Non-cash loss (gain) from derivatives	1,051	-2,389	-1,465
Reclassification of net cash settlements on precious metal contracts to investing activities	-2,346	-193	1,047
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	1,554	7,429	-2,677
Non-cash gain on disposal of assets	-27,573	-21	-6,041
Change in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:	'	'	'
Trade and other receivables	2,177	7,573	-7,621
Inventories	1,920	-421	-170
Prepaid and other current assets	-3,371	1,006	-443
Other current liabilities	-9,544	-14,417	-14,876
Other items, net	-1,271	-652	-2,047
Net cash provided by operating activities	49,163	58,439	21,554
Cash flows from investing activities:	'	'	'
Additions to property, plant and equipment	-16,226	-20,295	-12,046
Net cash settlements on precious metal contracts	2,346	193	-1,047
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	-68,640	-12,434	-8,508
Proceeds from sales of assets	413	2,257	186
Investments in associated company	0	-6,321	-18,021
Proceeds from sale of discontinued operations	45,334	0	26,532
Net cash used in investing activities of discontinued operations	-102	-1,282	-1,380
Net cash used in investing activities	-36,875	-37,882	-14,284
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'	'
Proceeds from term loans - domestic	10,000	116,838	50,000
Net revolver borrowings (repayments)	30,950	-23,849	-18,785
Net (repayments) borrowings on loans - foreign	-3,517	1,547	-707
Repayments of term loans	-9,318	-91,374	-4,452
Repurchases of Subordinated Notes	-36,307	-10,847	-35,074
Deferred finance charges	-771	-2,743	-1,469
Net change in overdrafts	1,761	-1,365	95
Purchases of treasury stock	-9,796	0	0
Other financing activities	-424	-437	1,200
Net cash used in financing activities	-17,422	-12,230	-9,192
Net change for the year	-5,134	8,327	-1,922
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	133	133	1
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	15,301	6,841	8,762
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	10,300	15,301	6,841
Cash paid during the year for:	'	'	'
Interest	8,704	11,272	11,159
Taxes	7,519	4,191	4,344
Non-cash financing activities:	'	'	'
Sale of property for mortgage note receivable	$0	$842	$0

The_Company_and_Nature_of_Oper

The Company and Nature of Operations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
The Company and Nature Of Operations	'
	The Company and Nature of Operations
	Handy & Harman Ltd. ("HNH") is a diversified manufacturer of engineered niche industrial products. HNH's diverse product offerings are marketed throughout the United States and internationally. HNH owns Handy & Harman Group Ltd. ("H&H Group"), which owns Handy & Harman ("H&H") and Bairnco Corporation ("Bairnco"). HNH manages its group of businesses on a decentralized basis with operations principally in North America. HNH's business units encompass the following segments: Joining Materials, Tubing, Building Materials, Arlon Electronic Materials ("Arlon") and Kasco Blades and Route Repair Services ("Kasco"). The Building Materials segment was formerly known as the Engineered Materials segment. All references herein to "we," "our" or the "Company" refer to HNH together with all of its subsidiaries.

Summary_of_Accounting_Policies

Summary of Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Summary of Accounting Policies	'
	Summary of Accounting Policies
	Basis of Presentation
	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of HNH and its subsidiaries. All material intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated.
	Discontinued Operations
	The results of operations for businesses that have been disposed of or classified as held-for-sale are segregated from the results of the Company's continuing operations and classified as discontinued operations for each period presented in the Company's consolidated income statement. Similarly, the assets and liabilities of such businesses are reclassified from continuing operations and presented as discontinued operations for each period presented in the Company's consolidated balance sheet. Businesses are reported as discontinued operations when the Company no longer has continuing involvement in their operations and no longer has significant continuing cash flows from their operation.
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("U.S. GAAP") requires the Company to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an on-going basis, the Company evaluates its estimates, including those related to bad debts, inventories, long-lived assets, intangibles, accrued expenses, income taxes, pensions and other post-retirement benefits, and contingencies and litigation. Estimates are based on historical experience, future cash flows and various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
	Revenue Recognition
	Revenues are recognized when title and risk of loss has passed to the customer. This condition is normally met when product has been shipped or the service performed. An allowance is provided for estimated returns and discounts based on experience. Cash received by the Company from customers prior to shipment of goods, or otherwise not yet earned, is recorded as deferred revenue. Rental revenues are derived from the rental of certain equipment to the food industry where customers prepay for the rental period, usually three to six month periods. For prepaid rental contracts, sales revenue is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the contract. Service revenues consist of repair and maintenance work performed on equipment used at mass merchants, supermarkets and restaurants.
	The Company experiences a certain degree of sales returns that varies over time, but is able to make a reasonable estimation of expected sales returns based upon history. The Company records all shipping and handling fees billed to customers as revenue, and related costs are charged principally to cost of goods sold, when incurred. The Company has also entered into agreements with certain customers under which the Company has agreed to pay rebates to such customers. These programs are typically structured to incentivize the customers to increase their annual purchases from the Company. The rebates are usually calculated as a percentage of the purchase amount, and such percentages may increase as the customer’s level of purchases rise. Rebates are recorded as a reduction of net sales in the consolidated income statement and are accounted for on an accrual basis. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, accrued rebates payable totaled $5.4 million and $4.5 million, respectively, and are included in accrued liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet. In limited circumstances, the Company is required to collect and remit sales tax on certain of its sales. The Company accounts for sales taxes on a net basis, and such sales taxes are not included in net sales in the consolidated income statement.
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand and on deposit and highly liquid debt instruments with original maturities of three months or less. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company had cash held in foreign banks of $6.5 million and $8.0 million, respectively. The Company's credit risk arising from cash deposits held in U.S. banks in excess of insured amounts is reduced given that cash balances in U.S. banks are generally utilized to pay down the Company's revolving credit loans (see Note 11 - "Debt"). At December 31, 2013, the Company held cash and cash equivalents which exceeded federally-insured limits by approximately $2.2 million.
	Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
	The Company extends credit to customers based on its evaluation of the customer's financial condition. The Company does not require that any collateral be provided by its customers. The Company has established an allowance for accounts that are expected to be uncollectible in the future. This estimated allowance is based primarily on management's evaluation of the financial condition of the customer and historical experience. The Company monitors its accounts receivable and charges to expense an amount equal to its estimate of expected credit losses. Accounts that are outstanding longer than contractual payment terms are considered past due. The Company considers a number of factors in determining its estimates, including the length of time its trade receivables are past due, the Company's previous loss history and the customer's current ability to pay its obligation. Accounts receivable balances are charged off against the allowance when it is determined that the receivable will not be recovered, and payments subsequently received on such receivables are credited to recovery of accounts written-off. The Company does not charge interest on past due receivables.
	The Company believes that the credit risk with respect to trade accounts receivable is limited due to the Company's credit evaluation process, the allowance for doubtful accounts that has been established and the diversified nature of its customer base. There were no customers which accounted for more than 5% of consolidated net sales in 2013, 2012 or 2011. In 2013, 2012 and 2011, the 15 largest customers accounted for approximately 26%, 28% and 27% of consolidated net sales, respectively.
	Inventories
	Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined by the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method for certain precious metal inventory held in the United States. Non-precious metal inventories and remaining precious metal inventory are stated at the lower of cost (determined by the first-in, first-out method or average cost method) or market. For precious metal inventory, no segregation among raw materials, work in process and finished products is practicable.
	Non-precious metal inventories are evaluated for estimated excess and obsolescence based upon assumptions about future demand and market conditions and are adjusted accordingly. If actual market conditions are less favorable than those projected, write-downs may be required.
	Derivatives and Risks
	Precious Metal and Commodity Risk
	H&H's precious metal and commodity inventories are subject to market price fluctuations. H&H enters into commodity futures and forward contracts to mitigate the impact of price fluctuations on its precious and certain non-precious metal inventories that are not subject to fixed price contracts. The Company's hedging strategy is designed to protect it against normal volatility; therefore, abnormal price increases in these commodities or markets could negatively impact H&H's earnings. H&H does not enter into derivatives or other financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes. H&H accounts for these contracts as either fair value hedges or economic hedges under the guidance in Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 815, Derivatives and Hedging.
	Fair Value Hedges. The fair values of these derivatives are recognized as derivative assets and liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet. The net change in fair value of the derivative assets and liabilities and the change in the fair value of the underlying hedged inventory are recognized in the consolidated income statement, and such amounts principally offset each other due to the effectiveness of the hedges. The fair value hedges are associated primarily with the Company's precious metal inventory carried at fair value.
	Economic Hedges. As these derivatives are not designated as accounting hedges under ASC 815, they are accounted for as derivatives with no hedge designation. The derivatives are marked to market and both realized and unrealized gains and losses are recorded in current period earnings in the consolidated income statement. The economic hedges are associated primarily with the Company's precious metal inventory valued using the LIFO method.
	Interest Rate Risk
	HNH enters into interest rate swap agreements in order to economically hedge a portion of its debt, which is subject to variable interest rates. As these derivatives are not designated as accounting hedges under U.S. GAAP, they are accounted for as derivatives with no hedge designation. The Company records the expense (or gain) both from the mark-to-market adjustments and net settlements in interest expense in the consolidated income statement as the hedges are intended to offset interest rate movements.
	Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk
	H&H and Bairnco are subject to the risk of price fluctuations related to anticipated revenues and operating costs, firm commitments for capital expenditures and existing assets or liabilities denominated in currencies other than U.S. dollars. H&H and Bairnco have not generally used derivative instruments to manage this risk.
	Property, Plant and Equipment
	Property, plant and equipment is recorded at historical cost. Depreciation of property, plant and equipment is provided principally on the straight line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which range as follows: machinery and equipment 3 – 15 years and buildings and improvements 10 – 30 years. Interest cost is capitalized for qualifying assets during the asset's acquisition period. Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense, and renewals and betterments are capitalized. Gain or loss on dispositions is credited or charged to operating income.
	Goodwill, Other Intangibles and Long-Lived Assets
	Goodwill represents the difference between the purchase price and the fair value of net assets acquired in a business combination. Goodwill is reviewed annually for impairment in accordance with U.S. GAAP as of the end of the fourth quarter. The Company uses judgment in assessing whether assets may have become impaired between annual impairment tests. Circumstances that could trigger an interim impairment test include, but are not limited to: the occurrence of a significant change in circumstances, such as continuing adverse business conditions or legal factors; an adverse action or assessment by a regulator; unanticipated competition; loss of key personnel; the likelihood that a reporting unit or significant portion of a reporting unit will be sold or otherwise disposed; or results of testing for recoverability of a significant asset group within a reporting unit.
	The testing of goodwill for impairment is performed at a level referred to as a reporting unit. Goodwill is allocated to each reporting unit based on the goodwill valued in connection with each business combination consummated within each reporting unit. Five reporting units of the Company have goodwill assigned to them.
	Goodwill impairment testing consists of a two-step process. Step 1 of the impairment test involves comparing the fair values of the applicable reporting units with their carrying values, including goodwill. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds the reporting unit's fair value, Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test is performed to determine the amount of impairment loss. Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test involves comparing the implied fair value of the affected reporting unit's goodwill against the carrying value of that goodwill. In performing the first step of the impairment test, the Company also reconciles the aggregate estimated fair value of its reporting units to its enterprise value, which includes a control premium.
	Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2011-08 provides an entity the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events or circumstances leads to a determination that it is more likely than not (more than 50%) that the estimated fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If an entity elects to perform a qualitative assessment and determines that an impairment is more likely than not, the entity is then required to perform the two-step quantitative impairment test discussed above; otherwise no further analysis is required. An entity also may elect not to perform the qualitative assessment and, instead, proceed directly to the two-step quantitative impairment test. The ultimate outcome of the goodwill impairment review for a reporting unit should be the same whether an entity chooses to perform the qualitative assessment or proceeds directly to the two-step quantitative impairment test.
	Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives. The Company also estimates the depreciable lives of property, plant and equipment, and reviews the assets for impairment if events, or changes in circumstances, indicate that it may not recover the carrying amount of an asset. Long-lived assets consisting of land and buildings used in previously operating businesses are carried at the lower of cost or fair value and are included primarily in other non-current assets on the consolidated balance sheet. A reduction in the carrying value of such long-lived assets used in previously operating businesses is recorded as an asset impairment charge in the consolidated income statement.
	Investments
	Investments are accounted for using the equity method of accounting if the investment provides the Company the ability to exercise significant influence, but not control, over an investee. Significant influence is generally deemed to exist if the Company has an ownership interest in the voting stock of the investee of between 20% and 50%, although other factors, such as representation on the investee's Board of Directors, or additional shares held by affiliates, are considered in determining whether the equity method of accounting is appropriate.
	Investments in equity securities that have readily determinable fair values that are classified as available-for-sale are measured at fair value on the consolidated balance sheet. Unrealized holding gains and losses on available-for-sale securities (including those classified as current assets) are excluded from earnings and reported in other comprehensive income (loss) until realized. Dividend and interest income, if any, are included in earnings. The Company uses the specific identification method to determine the cost of a security sold and the amount of realized gain or loss associated with any sales. The Company assesses whether an available-for-sale investment is impaired in each quarterly reporting period. If it is determined that an impairment is other than temporary, then an impairment loss is recognized in earnings equal to the difference between the investment's cost and its fair value at the balance sheet date of the reporting period for which the assessment is made. The measurement of an impairment does not include partial recoveries after the balance sheet date if they occur.
	Stock-Based Compensation
	The Company accounts for stock options and restricted stock granted to employees, directors and service providers as compensation expense, which is recognized in exchange for the services received. The compensation expense is based on the fair value of the equity instruments on the grant-date and is recognized as an expense over the service period of the recipients.
	Income Taxes
	Income taxes currently payable or tax refunds receivable are recorded on a net basis and included in accrued liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet. Deferred income taxes reflect the tax effect of net operating loss carryforwards ("NOLs"), capital loss or tax credit carryforwards and the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amount of assets and liabilities for financial reporting and income tax purposes, as determined under enacted tax laws and rates. Valuation allowances are established if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not that some portion or the entire deferred income tax asset will not be realized. The financial effect of changes in tax laws or rates is accounted for in the period of enactment.
	Earnings Per Share
	Basic earnings per share is based on the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during each year. Diluted earnings per share gives effect to dilutive potential common shares outstanding during each year.
	Foreign Currency Translation
	Assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries are translated at current exchange rates and related revenues and expenses are translated at average rates of exchange in effect during the year. Resulting cumulative translation adjustments are recorded as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).
	Advertising Costs
	Advertising costs consist of sales promotion literature, samples, cost of trade shows, and general advertising costs, and are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the consolidated income statement. Advertising, promotion and trade show costs totaled approximately $2.8 million in 2013, $2.4 million in 2012 and $2.2 million in 2011.
	Legal Contingencies
	The Company provides for legal contingencies when the liability is probable and the amount of the associated costs is reasonably estimable. The Company regularly monitors the progress of legal contingencies and revises the amounts recorded in the period in which a change in estimate occurs.
	Environmental Liabilities
	The Company accrues for losses associated with environmental remediation obligations when such losses are probable and reasonably estimable. Accruals for estimated losses from environmental remediation obligations generally are recognized no later than completion of the remedial feasibility study. Such accruals are adjusted as further information develops or circumstances change. Costs of future expenditures for environmental remediation obligations are not discounted to their present value. Recoveries of environmental remediation costs from other parties are recorded as assets when their receipt is deemed probable.
	Reclassifications
	Certain amounts for prior years have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. In particular, the assets, liabilities and income or loss of discontinued operations (see Note 5 - "Discontinued Operations") have been reclassified into separate lines on the consolidated financial statements to segregate them from continuing operations.

New_or_Recently_Adopted_Accoun

New or Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
New or Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements	'
	New or Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
	In February 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued ASU 2013-02 that requires entities to disclose the following additional information about items reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI"):
	•	Changes in AOCI balances by component, with separate presentation of (1) reclassification adjustments and (2) current period other comprehensive income.
	•	Significant items reclassified out of AOCI by component either on the face of the income statement or as a separate footnote to the financial statements.
	The Company adopted the ASU in the first quarter of 2013, and such adoption did not have an effect on the Company's consolidated financial position or results of operations.
	In March 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-05, which indicates that the entire amount of a cumulative translation adjustment related to an entity's investment in a foreign entity should be released when there has been a:
	•	Sale of a subsidiary or group of net assets within a foreign entity and the sale represents the substantially complete liquidation of the investment in the foreign entity.
	•	Loss of a controlling financial interest in an investment in a foreign entity (i.e. the foreign entity is deconsolidated).
	•	Step acquisition for a foreign entity (i.e. when an entity has changed from applying the equity method for an investment in a foreign entity to consolidating the foreign entity).
	The ASU is effective for the Company's 2014 fiscal year and is to be applied prospectively from the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption.

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Business Combinations [Abstract]	'
Acquisitions	'
	Acquisitions
	2013 Acquisitions
	Wolverine Joining Technologies, LLC
	On April 16, 2013, the Company and its indirect subsidiary, Lucas-Milhaupt Warwick LLC (together with the Company, "Buyer"), entered into an asset purchase agreement ("Purchase Agreement") with Wolverine Tube, Inc. ("Wolverine") and its subsidiary, Wolverine Joining Technologies, LLC ("Wolverine Joining" and, together with Wolverine, "Seller"), pursuant to which the Buyer agreed to purchase substantially all of the assets of the Seller used in the business of Wolverine Joining, consisting of assets used for the development, manufacturing and sale of brazing, flux and soldering products and the alloys for electrical, catalyst and other industrial specialties, other than certain leased real property, and to assume certain liabilities related to such business. By acquiring Wolverine Joining, the Company increased its capacity to produce brazing filler metals and fluxes, and broadened its platform for continued global expansion. The purchase price for the acquisition was approximately $59.7 million, reflecting a final working capital adjustment and certain other reductions totaling approximately $0.3 million as provided in the Purchase Agreement. The closing of this transaction occurred on April 26, 2013. Funding of the purchase price for the acquisition was from cash on hand and borrowings under the Company's senior secured credit facility, which was amended in connection with the acquisition as discussed in Note 11 - "Debt."
	In connection with the acquisition of Wolverine Joining, the Company currently expects to incur employee severance charges totaling approximately $0.4 million associated with the Company's integration activities. The majority of the costs have been recorded and paid as of December 31, 2013, and are reflected in selling, general and administrative expenses.
	The following table summarizes the amounts of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date on a preliminary basis (in thousands):
	Trade and other receivables	$	9,491
	Inventories	17,864
	Prepaid and other current assets	81
	Property, plant and equipment	5,549
	Goodwill	14,767
	Other intangibles	13,657
	Total assets acquired	61,409
	Trade payables	(1,167		)
	Accrued liabilities	(495		)
	Net assets acquired	$	59,747
	The preliminary purchase price allocation is subject to finalization of valuations of certain acquired assets. The goodwill of $14.8 million arising from the acquisition consists largely of the synergies expected from combining the operations of the Buyer and Seller. All of the goodwill is assigned to the Company's Joining Materials segment and is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes. Other intangibles consist primarily of acquired trade names of $4.6 million and customer relationships of $9.0 million. These intangible assets have been assigned 20-year useful lives based on the long operating history, broad market recognition and continued demand for the associated brands, and the limited turnover and long-standing relationships Wolverine Joining has with its existing customer base. The valuation of acquired trade names was performed utilizing a relief from royalty method, and significant assumptions used in the valuation include the royalty rate assumed and the expected level of future sales. The acquired customer relationships were valued using an excess earnings approach, and significant assumptions used in the valuation include the customer attrition rate assumed and the expected level of future sales.
	The amount of net sales and operating income of the acquired business included in the consolidated income statement for the year ended December 31, 2013 was approximately $43.3 million and $1.6 million, respectively, including $3.5 million of intercompany sales which were eliminated in consolidation. The results of operations of the acquired business are reported within the Company's Joining Materials segment. Unaudited pro forma net sales and net income of the combined entity had the acquisition date been January 1, 2012 are as follows:
			Year Ended
			December 31,
	(in thousands, except per share)		2013		2012
	Net sales		$	680,374	$	662,072
	Net income		$	43,411	$	28,720
	Net income per share		$	3.28	$	2.2
	Weighted-average shares outstanding		13,251		13,032
	This unaudited pro forma data is presented for informational purposes only and does not purport to be indicative of the results of future operations or of the results that would have occurred had the acquisition taken place on January 1, 2012. Such information for fiscal 2013 and 2012 is based on historical financial information with respect to the acquisition and does not include operational or other changes which might have been effected by the Company. The 2013 supplemental unaudited pro forma earnings were adjusted to exclude $0.6 million of acquisition-related costs incurred in 2013 and $0.5 million of nonrecurring expense related to the fair value adjustment to acquisition-date inventories. The 2012 supplemental unaudited pro forma earnings were adjusted to include these charges.
	PAM Fastening Technology, Inc.
	On November 7, 2013, the Company, through its indirect subsidiary, OMG, Inc., acquired 100% of the stock of PAM Fastening Technology, Inc. ("PAM") for a cash purchase price of $9.2 million, net of cash acquired. PAM is a distributor of screw guns, collated screws and hot melt systems to the manufacturing and building industries in North America. The assets acquired and liabilities assumed included net working capital of accounts receivable, inventories and trade payables; property, plant and equipment; and intangible assets, primarily trade names and customer relationships, valued at $2.9 million, $0.2 million and $5.1 million, respectively. This acquisition provides the Company with an add on product category to its existing fastening system product line. The amount of net sales and operating income of the acquired business included in the consolidated income statement for the year ended December 31, 2013 was approximately $1.5 million and $0.2 million, respectively. The results of operations of the acquired business are reported within the Company's Building Materials segment. In connection with the PAM acquisition, the Company has recorded goodwill totaling approximately $3.4 million, which is not expected to be deductible for income tax purposes.
	2012 Acquisitions
	Zaklad Przetwórstwa Metali INMET Sp. z o.o.
	On November 5, 2012, a subsidiary of H&H acquired 100% of the stock of Zaklad Przetwórstwa Metali INMET Sp. z o.o., a Polish manufacturer of brazing alloys and contact materials, for a cash purchase price of $4.0 million, net of cash acquired. The assets acquired and liabilities assumed included net working capital of accounts receivable, inventories and trade payables totaling $3.1 million; property, plant and equipment of $2.2 million; as well as assumed debt of $1.6 million. This acquisition provides H&H with a new family of fabricated joining materials and a broader presence in the European market. The amount of net sales and operating loss of the acquired business included in the consolidated income statement for the year ended December 31, 2013 was approximately $18.0 million and $0.6 million, respectively, including $8.7 million of intercompany sales which were eliminated in consolidation, as compared to net sales and operating loss of $1.7 million and $0.1 million, respectively, for the period from acquisition through December 31, 2012, including $1.2 million of intercompany sales which were eliminated in consolidation. The results of operations of the acquired business are reported within the Company's Joining Materials segment.
	W.P. Hickman Company
	On December 31, 2012, a subsidiary of H&H acquired substantially all of the assets of W.P. Hickman Company ("Hickman"), a North American manufacturer of perimeter metal roof edges for low slope roofs. The final cash purchase price was $8.2 million, which reflects proceeds from a final working capital adjustment of $0.3 million received in February 2013. The assets acquired and liabilities assumed included net working capital of accounts receivable, inventories and trade payables; property, plant and equipment; and intangible assets, primarily trade names and customer relationships, valued at $2.6 million, $1.2 million and $1.8 million, respectively. This acquisition provides H&H with an add on product category to its existing roofing business. The amount of net sales and operating income of the acquired business included in the consolidated income statement for the year ended December 31, 2013 was approximately $17.1 million and $1.3 million, respectively. The results of operations of the acquired business are reported within the Company's Building Materials segment. In connection with the Hickman acquisition, the Company has recorded goodwill totaling $2.8 million, which is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes.
	There is additional contingent consideration that could be due from the Company under the Hickman asset purchase agreement if the combined net sales of certain identified products exceed the parameters set forth in the asset purchase agreement in 2013 and 2014. In no event shall the additional contingent consideration exceed $1.5 million. In accordance with ASC 805, Business Combinations, the estimated fair value, $0.2 million, related to the contingent portion of the purchase price was recognized at the acquisition date. There was no significant change in the estimated fair value of this liability during the year ended December 31, 2013.
	2011 Acquisition
	Tiger Claw, Inc.
	Pursuant to an asset purchase agreement dated March 23, 2011, a subsidiary of H&H acquired certain assets and assumed certain liabilities of Tiger Claw, Inc., a company that among other businesses, develops and manufactures hidden fastening systems for deck construction. The final purchase price was $8.5 million and was paid in cash. The assets acquired included, among other things, machinery, equipment, inventories, certain contracts, accounts receivable and intellectual property rights, all as related to the acquired business and as provided in the asset purchase agreement. The results of operations of the acquired business are reported within the Company's Building Materials segment, and goodwill totaling approximately $1.8 million was allocated to the segment in connection with the acquisition. HNH believes this acquisition enhances its product offerings of fastening systems for deck construction.

Discontinued_Operations

Discontinued Operations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]	'
Discontinued Operations	'
	Discontinued Operations
	The following businesses are classified as discontinued operations in the accompanying consolidated financial statements for 2013 and for the comparable periods of 2012 and 2011.
	Continental Industries
	In January 2013, the Company divested substantially all of the assets and existing operations of its Continental Industries, Inc. ("Continental") business unit, a wholly-owned subsidiary of H&H, for a cash sales price totaling approximately $37.4 million less transaction fees, reflecting a working capital adjustment of approximately $0.1 million paid in the third quarter of 2013. Proceeds of $3.7 million are currently held in escrow pending resolution of certain indemnification provisions contained in the sales agreement and are included in other receivables on the consolidated balance sheet. Located in the State of Oklahoma, Continental manufactured plastic and steel fittings and connectors for natural gas, propane and water distribution service lines, along with exothermic welding products for electrical grounding, cathodic protection and lightning protection. It was part of the Company's Building Materials segment.
	Canfield Metal Coating Corporation
	In June 2013, the Company divested substantially all of the assets and existing operations of its Canfield Metal Coating Corporation ("CMCC") business unit, a wholly-owned subsidiary of H&H, for a cash sales price totaling approximately $9.5 million less transaction fees, reflecting a final working capital adjustment of approximately $0.5 million. Located in the State of Ohio, CMCC manufactured electro-galvanized and painted cold rolled sheet steel products primarily for the construction, entry door, container and appliance industries. It was part of the Company's Building Materials segment.
	Indiana Tube Mexico
	In July 2013, the Company divested substantially all of the equipment owned or utilized by Indiana Tube de México, S. De R.L. de C.V. ("ITM") for the manufacture of refrigeration condensers for a cash sales price totaling $3.7 million, less transaction fees. ITM's operations, which were part of the Company's Tubing segment, were discontinued in June 2013. The purchase price for ITM's equipment was payable in two equal installments of $1.85 million, the first paid at the closing date for the transaction and the second paid upon final equipment transfer, which occurred in September 2013.
	In connection with the shut-down of ITM's operations, the Company initiated a series of restructuring activities, which included the termination of all of ITM's employees and certain building lease termination costs. The total cost of these restructuring activities was $0.9 million, which was accrued as of June 30, 2013. Payment for the majority of these costs occurred during the third quarter of 2013, and the remaining restructuring payments were completed by the end of 2013.
	Indiana Tube Denmark
	In 2008, the Company decided to exit the welded specialty tubing market in Europe and close its Indiana Tube Denmark subsidiary ("ITD"). During 2009, ITD ceased operations and sold or disposed of its inventory and most of its equipment. ITD sold its facility for approximately $2.4 million in 2012, which included a note receivable for $0.8 million payable over a five year term. ITD was part of the Company's Tubing segment. The Company completed the final liquidation of ITD in July 2013 and recognized $2.6 million in foreign currency translation gains in earnings from discontinued operations during the third quarter of 2013, which were previously reported in accumulated other comprehensive loss on the consolidated balance sheet.
	Kasco-France
	During the third quarter of 2011, the Company sold the stock of EuroKasco, S.A.S. ("Kasco-France"), a part of its Kasco segment, to Kasco-France's former management team for one Euro plus 25% of any pretax earnings over the next three years. No additional consideration is expected to be collected for 2013 or 2012. Additionally, Kasco-France signed a five year supply agreement to purchase certain products from Kasco.
	Arlon AFD
	On February 4, 2011, Arlon LLC, an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of HNH, sold substantially all of its assets and existing operations located primarily in the State of California related to its Adhesive Film Division for an aggregate sales price of $27.0 million. Net proceeds of approximately $24.2 million from this sale were used to repay indebtedness under the Company's revolving credit facility.
	Arlon ECP and SignTech
	On March 25, 2011, Arlon LLC and its subsidiaries sold substantially all of their assets and existing operations located primarily in the State of Texas related to Arlon LLC's Engineered Coated Products Division and its SignTech subsidiary for an aggregate sales price of $2.5 million. In addition, Arlon LLC sold a coater machine to the same purchaser for a price of $0.5 million. The net proceeds from these asset sales of $2.3 million were used to repay indebtedness under the Company's revolving credit facility. Amounts held in escrow in connection with the Arlon LLC asset sales, totaling $3.0 million, were recorded in trade and other receivables on the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2011 and were received by the Company during the second quarter of 2012.
	The assets and liabilities of discontinued operations have been segregated in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2013 and 2012.
		December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013			2012
	Assets of Discontinued Operations:
	Trade and other receivables, net	$	—		$	6,372
	Inventories, net	—			7,097
	Prepaid and other current assets	587			1,438
	Property, plant and equipment, net	—			7,934
	Goodwill	—			9,156
	Other non-current assets	64			114
		$	651		$	32,111
	Liabilities of Discontinued Operations	$	151		$	9,160
	The net income from discontinued operations includes the following:
		Year Ended December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013			2012			2011
	Net sales	$	20,094		$	83,228		$	102,033
	Operating (loss) income	(1,559		)	6,999			2,743
	Interest and other expense	(47		)	(91		)	(192		)
	Income tax benefit (expense)	609			(2,597		)	(873		)
	(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax	(997		)	4,311			1,678
	Gain on disposal of assets	27,573			21			6,041
	Income tax expense	(12,674		)	—			(3,360		)
	Net income from discontinued operations	$	13,902		$	4,332		$	4,359

Asset_Impairment_Charge

Asset Impairment Charge	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Asset Impairment Charges [Abstract]	'
Asset Impairment Charge	'
	Asset Impairment Charge
	A non-cash asset impairment charge of $0.7 million was recorded in 2011 related to vacant land owned by the Company's Arlon segment located in Rancho Cucamonga, California. The Company reduced this property's carrying value by $0.7 million to reflect its lower fair market value.

Inventories

Inventories	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Inventories	'
	Inventories
	Inventories at December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 were comprised of:
		December 31,			December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013			2012
	Finished products	$	21,887		$	19,596
	In-process	9,840			8,344
	Raw materials	15,246			14,130
	Fine and fabricated precious metals in various stages of completion	19,802			9,599
		66,775			51,669
	LIFO reserve	(1,025		)	(4,139		)
		$	65,750		$	47,530
	In order to produce certain of its products, H&H purchases, maintains and utilizes precious metal inventory. H&H records certain of its precious metal inventory at the lower of LIFO cost or market, with any adjustments recorded through cost of goods sold. The market value of the precious metal inventory exceeded LIFO cost by $1.0 million as of December 31, 2013 and $4.1 million as of December 31, 2012. The Company recorded non-cash LIFO liquidation gains of $0.6 million and $1.9 million in 2012 and 2011, respectively. No similar gain was recorded in 2013 due to an increase in ending precious metal inventory stated at LIFO cost. The increase in the amount of precious metal inventory from December 31, 2012 was principally attributable to the acquisition of Wolverine Joining (see Note 4 - "Acquisitions"), whose precious metal inventory is accounted for at fair value.
	Certain customers and suppliers of H&H choose to do business on a "pool" basis and furnish precious metal to H&H for return in fabricated form or for purchase from or return to the supplier. When the customer metal is returned in fabricated form, the customer is charged a fabrication charge. The value of this customer metal is not included in the Company's consolidated balance sheet. To the extent H&H is able to utilize customer precious metal in its production processes, such customer metal replaces the need for H&H to purchase its own inventory. As of December 31, 2013, H&H's customer metal consisted of 247,103 ounces of silver, 576 ounces of gold and 1,392 ounces of palladium.
	Supplemental inventory information:	December 31,			December 31,
	(in thousands, except per ounce)	2013			2012
	Precious metals stated at LIFO cost	$	5,090		$	5,460
	Precious metals stated under non-LIFO cost methods, primarily at fair value	$	13,687		$	—
	Market value per ounce:
	Silver	$	19.49		$	30.2
	Gold	$	1,201.50		$	1,675.40
	Palladium	$	711		$	702.85

Property_Plant_and_Equipment

Property, Plant and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Text Block [Abstract]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment	'
	Property, Plant and Equipment
		December 31,		December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013		2012
	Land	$	9,177	$	7,366
	Buildings, machinery and equipment	169,411		155,253
	Construction in progress	7,357		7,513
		185,945		170,132
	Accumulated depreciation	94,748		88,403
		$	91,197	$	81,729
	Depreciation expense for the years ended 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $11.9 million, $10.0 million and $10.8 million, respectively.

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangibles

Goodwill and Other Intangibles	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Goodwill and Other Intangibles	'
	Goodwill and Other Intangibles
	The changes in the net carrying amount of goodwill by reportable segment for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:
	(in thousands)
	Segment		Balance at January 1, 2013				Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments			Additions			Adjustments				Balance at				Accumulated
																	31-Dec-13				Impairment Losses
	Joining Materials		$	1,494			$	14		$	14,767		$	—			$	16,275			$	—
	Tubing		1,895				—			—			—				1,895				—
	Building Materials		47,096				—			3,402			(454		)		50,044				—
	Arlon		9,298				—			—			—				9,298				(1,140		)
			$	59,783			$	14		$	18,169		$	(454	)		$	77,512			$	(1,140	)
	The $14.8 million addition to goodwill within the Joining Materials segment was due to the Company's acquisition of Wolverine Joining, and the $3.4 million addition within the Building Materials segment was due to the Company's acquisition of PAM. The $0.5 million adjustment to goodwill recorded during the year ended December 31, 2013 within the Building Materials segment is related to final purchase price allocation adjustments, including a final working capital adjustment, associated with the prior year acquisition of Hickman. For additional information, see Note 4 - "Acquisitions."
	(in thousands)
	Segment		Balance at January 1, 2012				Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments			Additions			Balance at December 31, 2012				Accumulated Impairment Losses
	Joining Materials		$	1,489			$	5		$	—		$	1,494			$	—
	Tubing		1,895				—			—			1,895				—
	Building Materials		43,829				—			3,267			47,096				—
	Arlon		9,298				—			—			9,298				(1,140		)
			$	56,511			$	5		$	3,267		$	59,783			$	(1,140	)
	Other intangible assets as of December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 consisted of:
	(in thousands)	December 31, 2013									December 31, 2012									Weighted-Average Amortization Life (in Years)
		Cost			Accumulated Amortization			Net			Cost		Accumulated Amortization			Net
	Customer relationships	$	52,565		$	(16,259	)	$	36,306		$	38,825	$	(13,232	)	$	25,593			16.5
	Trademarks, trade names and brand names	10,231			(2,116		)	8,115			5,048		(1,634		)	3,414				17.5
	Patents and patent applications	5,103			(1,870		)	3,233			4,789		(1,523		)	3,266				15.5
	Non-compete agreements	906			(839		)	67			906		(809		)	97				7.1
	Other	1,808			(1,193		)	615			1,762		(914		)	848				6.1
	Total	$	70,613		$	(22,277	)	$	48,336		$	51,330	$	(18,112	)	$	33,218
	Amortization expense totaled $4.2 million, $3.3 million and $3.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The increase in intangible assets and related amortization expense during 2013 was principally due to the Company's acquisition of Wolverine Joining and PAM discussed in Note 4 - "Acquisitions." The estimated amortization expense for each of the five succeeding years and thereafter is as follows:
	(in thousands)		Customer Relationships				Trademarks, Trade Names and Brand Names			Patents and Patent Applications			Non-Compete Agreements				Other				Total
	2014		$	3,421			$	594		$	356		$	30			$	290			$	4,691
	2015		3,421				594			342			30				194				4,581
	2016		3,421				594			270			7				85				4,377
	2017		3,414				594			270			—				37				4,315
	2018		3,378				594			270			—				9				4,251
	Thereafter		19,251				5,145			1,725			—				—				26,121
			$	36,306			$	8,115		$	3,233		$	67			$	615			$	48,336
	These balances are subject to adjustment during the finalization of the purchase price allocations for the Wolverine Joining and PAM acquisitions.

Investments

Investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]	'
Investments	'
	Investments
	On December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, the Company held an investment in the common stock of a public company, ModusLink Global Solutions, Inc. ("ModusLink"), which is classified as an investment in associated company on the consolidated balance sheet. The value of this investment increased from $17.2 million at December 31, 2012 to $34.0 million at December 31, 2013 due entirely to changes in the share price of ModusLink's common stock.
	As of March 11, 2013, Steel Partners Holdings L.P. ("SPLP") and its associated companies, which include the Company, owned a combined total of 6,481,185 ModusLink common shares, which represented 14.7% of ModusLink's outstanding shares. SPLP is a majority shareholder of HNH, owning directly or indirectly through its subsidiaries in excess of 50% of HNH's common shares. The power to vote and dispose of the securities held by SPLP is controlled by Steel Partners Holdings GP Inc. ("SPH GP"). On February 11, 2013, SPLP entered into an agreement ("Investment Agreement") whereby, under certain conditions, it agreed to purchase 7,500,000 shares of ModusLink common stock at a price of $4.00 per share and receive warrants to purchase 2,000,000 additional shares of ModusLink common stock at an exercise price of $5.00 per share.
	At its annual meeting held on March 12, 2013, ModusLink's stockholders voted to approve the Investment Agreement with SPLP and also to elect Warren G. Lichtenstein and Glen M. Kassan to the ModusLink Board of Directors, both of whom are directors of HNH, and Mr. Lichtenstein is Executive Chairman of SPH GP. Mr. Lichtenstein was also designated Chairman of the Board of ModusLink. Also on March 12, 2013, pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Investment Agreement, SPLP purchased the 7,500,000 shares of ModusLink's common stock. As of December 31, 2013, SPLP and HNH own 15.6% and 11.5% of ModusLink's common stock, respectively, for an aggregate ownership of 27.1%. The outstanding warrants to purchase 2,000,000 additional shares of ModusLink common stock held by SPLP will expire on the date that is five years following the closing of the Investment Agreement.
	HNH had historically accounted for its investment in ModusLink as an available-for-sale security in non-current assets on the consolidated balance sheet. As of December 31, 2012, the cost of the Company's investment in ModusLink was $24.3 million, and the fair value was $17.2 million. The unrealized loss associated with this security was included in accumulated other comprehensive loss on the consolidated balance sheet and also in the consolidated statement of changes in stockholders' equity, net of tax. The change in the unrealized gain or loss was included in other comprehensive income (loss).
	As a result of the board representation described above, together with SPLP's direct ownership of an additional 15.6% of ModusLink common stock, HNH has concluded that it has significant influence over the operating and financial policies of ModusLink, and therefore its investment in ModusLink became subject to the equity method of accounting as of March 12, 2013.
	HNH has elected the option to value its investment in ModusLink using fair value effective March 12, 2013 in order to more appropriately reflect the value of ModusLink in its consolidated financial statements. As a result, the Company will carry its ModusLink investment on the consolidated balance sheet at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses on the investment reported in net income. On March 12, 2013, the accumulated unrealized loss of $4.3 million related to ModusLink that was recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of a tax benefit of $1.9 million, was reclassified to earnings. Prior to March 12, 2013, there had been no sales or realized gains or losses from this marketable security, and no impairments, whether other-than-temporary or not, recognized in the consolidated income statement.
	ModusLink's fiscal year ends on July 31. Summarized unaudited information as to assets, liabilities and results of operations of ModusLink for the quarter ended October 31, 2013, its most recently completed fiscal quarter, as well as for the nine months ended October 31, 2013, the nearest practicable period corresponding to the period the Company has accounted for its investment in ModusLink under the equity method of accounting, and the comparable prior periods, are as follows:
		October 31,		July 31,
	(in thousands)	2013		2013
	Current assets	$	319,994	$	291,086
	Non-current assets	$	50,235	$	52,610
	Current liabilities	$	199,324	$	176,431
	Non-current liabilities	$	10,706	$	10,360
	Stockholders' equity	$	160,199	$	156,905
		Three Months Ended					Nine Months Ended
		October 31,					October 31,
	(in thousands)	2013		2012			2013			2012
	Net revenue	$	191,415	$	197,051		$	545,432		$	543,733
	Gross profit	$	21,995	$	18,624		$	57,463		$	46,002
	Income (loss) from continuing operations	$	538	$	(9,831	)	$	(16,544	)	$	(27,641	)
	Net income (loss)	$	617	$	(10,660	)	$	(16,530	)	$	(37,037	)

Debt

Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Debt	'
	Debt
	Debt at December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 was as follows:
	(in thousands)		December 31,			December 31,
			2013			2012
	Short-term debt
	Foreign		$	304		$	778
	Long-term debt
	Senior Term Loan		116,000			115,000
	Revolving Facility		30,950			—
	Subordinated Notes, net of unamortized discount		—			9,440
	Other H&H debt - domestic		8,279			8,597
	Foreign loan facilities		1,658			4,713
	Sub total		156,887			137,750
	Less portion due within one year		12,818			8,943
	Long-term debt		144,069			128,807
	Long-term debt - related party
	Subordinated Notes, net of unamortized discount		—			19,916
	Total long-term debt		144,069			148,723
	Total debt		$	157,191		$	158,444
	Long-term debt at December 31, 2013 matures in each of the next five years as follows:
	(in thousands)	Total			2014			2015		2016		2017		2018		Thereafter
	Long-term debt (a)	$	156,887		$	12,818		$	21,969	$	15,691	$	106,409	$	—	$	—
	a)	Assumes repayment of the Revolving Facility on its contractual maturity date.
	Senior Credit Facility
	On November 8, 2012, H&H Group entered into a $205.0 million senior secured credit facility, consisting of a revolving credit facility ("Revolving Facility") in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $90.0 million and a term loan ("Senior Term Loan") in an aggregate principal amount of $115.0 million (collectively, "Senior Credit Facility"). On April 26, 2013, in connection with the acquisition of Wolverine Joining (see Note 4 - "Acquisitions"), the Company's Senior Credit Facility was amended, and on September 13, 2013, the Senior Credit Facility was further amended. These amendments, among other things, increased the lenders' commitments under the Revolving Facility to $160.0 million and their commitments under the Senior Term Loan to $125.0 million, provided H&H Group with additional flexibility regarding its ability to utilize net cash proceeds from permitted asset sales, reset the amount of dividends and other distributions that may be made by H&H Group to the Company following the payment of $7.0 million of previously declared dividends, and amended certain financial covenants and the amortization schedule of the term loan. The term loan, as amended, requires quarterly principal payments of $3.1 million, $3.9 million, $3.9 million and $3.9 million in 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017, respectively.
	The Senior Credit Facility will expire, with remaining outstanding balances due and payable, on November 8, 2017. The Senior Credit Facility is guaranteed by substantially all existing and thereafter acquired or created domestic and Canadian wholly-owned subsidiaries of H&H Group. The Senior Credit Facility restricts H&H Group's ability to transfer cash or other assets to HNH, subject to certain exceptions including required pension payments to the WHX Corporation Pension Plan ("WHX Pension Plan"). Borrowings under the Senior Credit Facility bear interest, at H&H Group's option, at a rate based on LIBOR or the Base Rate, as defined, plus an applicable margin as set forth in the loan agreement (2.75% and 1.75%, respectively, for LIBOR and Base Rate borrowings at December 31, 2013). The Revolving Facility provides for a commitment fee to be paid on unused borrowings, and usage under the Revolving Facility is governed by a defined Borrowing Base. The Revolving Facility also includes provisions for the issuance of letters of credit up to $15.0 million, with any such issuances reducing availability under the Revolving Facility. The Senior Credit Facility is subject to certain mandatory prepayment provisions and restrictive and financial covenants, which include a maximum ratio limit on Total Leverage and a minimum ratio limit on Fixed Charge Coverage, as defined, as well as a minimum liquidity level.
	At December 31, 2013, letters of credit totaling $3.3 million had been issued. $3.1 million of the letters of credit guarantee various insurance activities, and $0.1 million are for environmental and other matters. Remaining excess availability under the Borrowing Base totaled $36.4 million at December 31, 2013. The weighted-average interest rates on the Senior Term Loan and Revolving Facility were 3.00% and 3.13%, respectively, at December 31, 2013, and the Company was in compliance with all debt covenants at December 31, 2013.
	In connection with lending requirements under the Senior Credit Facility, H&H Group entered into an interest rate swap agreement in February 2013 to reduce its exposure to interest rate fluctuations. Under the interest rate swap, the Company receives one-month LIBOR in exchange for a fixed interest rate of 0.569% over the life of the agreement on an initial $56.4 million notional amount of debt, with the notional amount decreasing by $1.1 million, $1.8 million and $2.2 million per quarter in 2013, 2014 and 2015, respectively. The agreement expires in February 2016. In connection with the amendments made to the Senior Credit Facility in connection with the Wolverine Joining acquisition, H&H Group entered into a second interest rate swap agreement in June 2013 to reduce its exposure to interest rate fluctuations. Under the interest rate swap, the Company receives one-month LIBOR in exchange for a fixed interest rate of 0.598% over the life of the agreement on an initial $5.0 million notional amount of debt, with the notional amount decreasing by $0.1 million, $0.2 million and $0.2 million per quarter in 2013, 2014 and 2015, respectively. The agreement expires in February 2016.
	Subordinated Notes
	On October 15, 2010, H&H Group refinanced the prior indebtedness of H&H and Bairnco to the SPII Liquidating Series Trusts (Series A and Series E)("Steel Trusts"), each constituting a separate series of the SPII Liquidating Trust as successor-in-interest to Steel Partners II, L.P. In accordance with the terms of the associated exchange agreement, H&H Group made an approximately $6 million cash payment in partial satisfaction of prior indebtedness to the Steel Trusts and exchanged the remainder of such prior obligations for units consisting of (a) $72.9 million aggregate principal amount of 10% subordinated secured notes due 2017 ("Subordinated Notes") issued by H&H Group pursuant to an indenture, dated as of October 15, 2010 (as amended and restated effective December 13, 2010)("Indenture"), and (b) warrants, exercisable beginning October 15, 2013, to purchase an aggregate of 1,500,806 shares of the Company's common stock, with an exercise price of $11.00 per share ("Warrants"). The Subordinated Notes were redeemable until October 14, 2013, at H&H Group's option, upon payment of the principal amount of the notes, plus all accrued and unpaid interest thereon and an applicable premium set forth in the Indenture. All obligations outstanding under the Subordinated Notes bore interest at a rate of 10% per annum, 6% of which was payable in cash and 4% of which was payable in-kind.
	On October 14, 2011, H&H Group redeemed $25.0 million principal amount of its outstanding Subordinated Notes on a pro-rata basis among all holders thereof at a redemption price of 102.8% of the principal amount and accrued but unpaid payment-in-kind-interest thereof, plus accrued and unpaid cash interest. Until October 15, 2013, the Subordinated Notes were not detachable from the Warrants that were issued with the Subordinated Notes as units ("Units"). Accordingly, a pro-rata portion of Warrants were also redeemed on October 14, 2011, as well as in subsequent redemptions. During 2011, the Company redeemed a total of approximately $35.1 million of Subordinated Notes, including the October redemption. In 2012, H&H Group repurchased an aggregate $10.8 million of Subordinated Notes, plus accrued interest. A (loss) gain of $(1.4) million and $0.2 million on repurchases of the Subordinated Notes is included in interest expense in the consolidated income statements for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
	On March 26, 2013, H&H Group instructed Wells Fargo Bank, National Association ("Wells Fargo"), as trustee and collateral agent, to deliver an irrevocable notice of H&H Group's election to redeem all of its outstanding Subordinated Notes to the holders of the Subordinated Notes. H&H Group also instructed Wells Fargo to redeem, on April 25, 2013, approximately $31.8 million principal amount of Subordinated Notes, representing all of the remaining outstanding Subordinated Notes, at a redemption price equal to 112.6% of the principal amount and accrued but unpaid payment-in-kind-interest thereof, plus accrued and unpaid cash interest. As indicated above, the Subordinated Notes were part of a unit, and, accordingly, the Warrants which comprised a portion of the Units were also redeemed. On March 26, 2013, H&H Group irrevocably deposited with Wells Fargo funds totaling $36.9 million for such redemption and interest payment in order to satisfy and discharge its obligations under the Indenture from both a legal and accounting perspective. Interest expense for the three months ended March 31, 2013 included a $5.7 million loss associated with the redemption of the Subordinated Notes, including the redemption premium and the write-off of remaining deferred finance costs and unamortized debt discounts.
	Other Debt
	A subsidiary of H&H has two mortgage agreements, each collateralized by real property. The mortgage balance on the first facility was $6.5 million and $6.8 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The mortgage bears interest at LIBOR plus a margin of 2.70%, or 2.87% at December 31, 2013, and matures in 2015. The mortgage on the second facility was $1.7 million and $1.8 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The mortgage bears interest at LIBOR plus a margin of 2.70%, or 2.86% at December 31, 2013, and matures in 2017.

Derivative_Instruments

Derivative Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Derivative Instruments	'
	Derivative Instruments
	Precious Metal and Commodity Inventories
	As of December 31, 2013, the Company had the following outstanding futures contracts with settlement dates ranging from February 2014 to March 2014. There were no forward contracts outstanding at December 31, 2013.
						Notional Value
	Commodity	Amount				($ in millions)
	Silver	650,000		ounces		$	12.6
	Gold	1,000		ounces		$	1.2
	Copper	350,000		pounds		$	1.2
	Tin	40		metric tons		$	0.9
	Of the total futures contracts outstanding, 570,000 ounces of silver and substantially all of the copper contracts are designated and accounted for as fair value hedges. The remaining outstanding futures contracts for silver, and all of the contracts for gold and tin, are accounted for as economic hedges.
	The futures contracts are exchange traded contracts acquired through a third party broker. Accordingly, the Company has determined that there is minimal credit risk of default. The Company estimates the fair value of its derivative contracts through the use of market quotes or with the assistance of brokers when market information is not available. The Company maintains collateral on account with the third-party broker. Such collateral consists of both cash that varies in amount depending on the value of open futures contracts, as well as ounces of precious metal held on account by the broker.
	Debt Agreements
	In connection with its Senior Credit Facility, H&H Group entered into two interest rate swap agreements to reduce its exposure to interest rate fluctuations. See Note 11 - "Debt" for further discussion of the terms of these arrangements.
	The Company's Subordinated Notes had call premiums as well as Warrants associated with them. The Company treated the fair value of these features together as both a discount on the debt and a derivative liability at inception of the loan agreement. The discount was being amortized over the life of the notes as an adjustment to interest expense, and the derivative was marked to market at each balance sheet date. As discussed in Note 11 - "Debt," on March 26, 2013, the Company discharged its obligations associated with the Subordinated Notes and Warrants, and therefore, all discounts and derivative accounts related to the Subordinated Notes and Warrants are now zero.
	Effect of Derivative Instruments in the Consolidated Income Statements - Income/(Expense)
	(in thousands)		Year Ended
			December 31,
	Derivative	Income Statement Line	2013				2012		2011
	Commodity contracts	Cost of goods sold	$	2,528			$	—	$	—
		Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments	2,528				—		—
	Commodity contracts	Realized and unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives	1,988				522		(1,236		)
	Interest rate swap agreements	Interest expense	(328		)		—		—
	Derivative features of Subordinated Notes	Realized and unrealized (loss) gain on derivatives	(793		)		2,060		1,654
		Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments	867				2,582		418
		Total derivatives	$	3,395			$	2,582	$	418
	Fair Value of Derivative Instruments on the Consolidated Balance Sheets - Asset/(Liability)
	(in thousands)		December 31,				December 31,
	Derivative	Balance Sheet Location	2013				2012
	Commodity contracts	Prepaid and other current assets	$	1,778			$	—
		Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments	1,778				—
	Commodity contracts	(Accrued liabilities)/Prepaid and other current assets	(158		)		100
	Interest rate swap agreements	Other liabilities	(214		)		—
	Derivative features of Subordinated Notes	Long-term debt and long-term debt - related party	—				793
		Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments	(372		)		893
		Total derivatives	$	1,406			$	893

Pensions_and_Other_PostRetirem

Pensions and Other Post-Retirement Benefits	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Defined Benefit Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Pensions and Other Post-Retirement Benefits	'
	Pensions and Other Post-Retirement Benefits
	The Company maintains several qualified and non-qualified pension plans and other post-retirement benefit plans. The Company's significant pension, post-retirement health care benefit and defined contribution plans are discussed below. The Company's other pension and post-retirement plans are not significant individually or in the aggregate.
	Qualified Pension Plans
	HNH sponsors a defined benefit pension plan, the WHX Pension Plan, covering many of H&H's employees and certain employees of H&H's former subsidiary, Wheeling-Pittsburgh Corporation ("WPC"). The WHX Pension Plan was established in May 1998 as a result of the merger of the former H&H plans, which covered substantially all H&H employees, and the WPC plan. The WPC plan, covering most United Steel Workers of America-represented employees of WPC, was created pursuant to a collective bargaining agreement ratified on August 12, 1997. Prior to that date, benefits were provided through a defined contribution plan, the Wheeling-Pittsburgh Steel Corporation Retirement Security Plan ("RSP Plan"). The assets of the RSP Plan were merged into the WPC plan as of December 1, 1997. Under the terms of the WHX Pension Plan, the benefit formula and provisions for the WPC and H&H participants continued as they were designed under each of the respective plans prior to the merger.
	The qualified pension benefits under the WHX Pension Plan were frozen as of December 31, 2005 and April 30, 2006 for hourly and salaried non-bargaining participants, respectively, with the exception of a single operating unit. In 2011, the benefits were frozen for the remainder of the participants.
	WPC employees ceased to be active participants in the WHX Pension Plan effective July 31, 2003, and as a result, such employees no longer accrue benefits under the WHX Pension Plan.
	Bairnco Corporation had several pension plans, which covered substantially all of its employees. In 2006, Bairnco froze the Bairnco Corporation Retirement Plan and initiated employer contributions to its 401(k) plan. On June 2, 2008, two Bairnco plans (Salaried and Kasco) were merged into the WHX Pension Plan. The remaining plan that has not been merged with the WHX Pension Plan covers certain employees at a facility located in Bear, Delaware (the "Bear Plan"), and the pension benefits under the Bear Plan have been frozen.
	Some of the Company's foreign subsidiaries provide retirement benefits for their employees through defined contribution plans or otherwise provide retirement benefits for employees consistent with local practices. The foreign plans are not significant in the aggregate and therefore are not included in the following disclosures.
	Pension benefits are based on years of service and the amount of compensation earned during the participants' employment. However, as noted above, the qualified pension benefits have been frozen for all participants.
	Pension benefits for the WPC bargained participants include both defined benefit and defined contribution features, since the plan includes the account balances from the RSP Plan. The gross benefit, before offsets, is calculated based on years of service and the benefit multiplier under the plan. The net defined benefit pension plan benefit is the gross amount offset for the benefits payable from the RSP Plan and benefits payable by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation from previously terminated plans. Individual employee accounts established under the RSP Plan are maintained until retirement. Upon retirement, participants who are eligible for the WHX Pension Plan and maintain RSP Plan account balances will normally receive benefits from the WHX Pension Plan. When these participants become eligible for benefits under the WHX Pension Plan, their vested balances in the RSP Plan become assets of the WHX Pension Plan. Although these RSP Plan assets cannot be used to fund any of the net benefit that is the basis for determining the defined benefit plan's net benefit obligation at the end of the year, the Company has included the amount of the RSP Plan accounts of $19.4 million and $22.6 million on a gross-basis as both assets and liabilities of the plan as of December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively.
	Certain current and retired employees of H&H are covered by post-retirement medical benefit plans, which provide benefits for medical expenses and prescription drugs. Contributions from a majority of the participants are required, and for those retirees and spouses, the Company's payments are capped. The measurement date for plan obligations is December 31.
	In 2011, the unrecognized actuarial losses were amortized over the average future service years of active participants in the WHX Pension Plan, which was approximately 10 years. Beginning in 2012, the actuarial losses are being amortized over the average future lifetime of the participants, which is expected to be approximately 21 years. The Company believes that the future lifetime of the participants is more appropriate because the WHX Pension Plan is completely inactive.
	The components of pension expense and components of other post-retirement benefit expense for the Company's benefit plans included the following:
			Pension Benefits											Other Post-Retirement Benefits
	(in thousands)		2013				2012				2011			2013				2012			2011
	Service cost		$	—			$	—			$	218		$	—			$	—		$	—
	Interest cost		18,594				21,651				22,553			98				163			171
	Expected return on plan assets		(23,964		)		(27,005		)		(27,249		)	—				—			—
	Amortization of prior service cost		32				44				63			—				—			—
	Amortization of actuarial loss		10,680				8,623				10,772			8				86			41
	Total		$	5,342			$	3,313			$	6,357		$	106			$	249		$	212
	Actuarial assumptions used to develop the components of defined benefit pension expense and other post-retirement benefit expense were as follows:
			Pension Benefits									Other Post-Retirement Benefits
			2013			2012			2011			2013		2012			2011
	Discount rates:
	WHX Pension Plan		3.5	%		4.15	%		4.95	%		N/A		N/A			N/A
	Other post-retirement benefit plans		N/A			N/A			N/A			3.65	%	4.2	%		5.1	%
	Bear Plan		4	%		4.55	%		5.5	%		N/A		N/A			N/A
	Expected return on assets		7.5	%		8	%		8	%		N/A		N/A			N/A
	Rate of compensation increase		N/A			N/A			N/A			N/A		N/A			N/A
	Health care cost trend rate - initial		N/A			N/A			N/A			7.25	%	7.5	%		7.5	%
	Health care cost trend rate - ultimate		N/A			N/A			N/A			5	%	5	%		5	%
	Year ultimate reached		N/A			N/A			N/A			2022		2022			2016
	The measurement date for plan obligations is December 31. The discount rate is the rate at which the plans' obligations could be effectively settled and is based on high quality bond yields as of the measurement date.
	Summarized below is a reconciliation of the funded status for the Company's qualified defined benefit pension plans and post-retirement benefit plans:
			Pension Benefits								Other Post-Retirement Benefits
	(in thousands)		2013				2012				2013			2012
	Change in benefit obligation:
	Benefit obligation at January 1		$	547,456			$	532,619			$	4,208		$	4,092
	Service cost		—				—				—			—
	Interest cost		18,594				21,651				98			163
	Actuarial (gain) loss		(34,739		)		36,227				(1,403		)	150
	Participant contributions		—				—				4			9
	Plan change		—				—				(1,506		)	—
	Benefits paid		(34,495		)		(36,058		)		(317		)	(206		)
	Insurance contract termination		—				(6,983		)		—			—
	Transfer from Canfield Salaried SEPP		724				—				—			—
	Benefit obligation at December 31		$	497,540			$	547,456			$	1,084		$	4,208
	Change in plan assets:
	Fair value of plan assets at January 1		$	330,471			$	346,408			$	—		$	—
	Actual returns on plan assets		43,924				10,924				—			—
	Participant contributions		—				—				4			9
	Benefits paid		(34,495		)		(36,058		)		(317		)	(206		)
	Company contributions		13,349				16,180				313			197
	Insurance contract termination		—				(6,983		)		—			—
	Transfer from Canfield Salaried SEPP		724				—				—			—
	Fair value of plan assets at December 31		353,973				330,471				—			—
	Funded status		$	(143,567	)		$	(216,985	)		$	(1,084	)	$	(4,208	)
	Accumulated benefit obligation ("ABO") for qualified defined benefit plans:
	ABO at January 1		$	547,456			$	532,619			$	4,208		$	4,092
	ABO at December 31		$	497,540			$	547,456			$	1,084		$	4,208
	Amounts recognized on the consolidated balance sheet:
	Current liability		$	—			$	—			$	(111	)	$	(211	)
Noncurrent liability		(143,567		)		(216,985		)		(973		)	(3,997		)
Total		$	(143,567	)		$	(216,985	)		$	(1,084	)	$	(4,208	)
The weighted-average assumptions used in the valuations at December 31 were as follows:
		Pension Benefits						Other Post-Retirement Benefits
		2013			2012			2013			2012
Discount rates:
WHX Pension Plan		4.4	%		3.5	%		N/A			N/A
Bear Plan		4.95	%		4	%		N/A			N/A
Other post-retirement benefit plans		N/A			N/A			4.1	%		3.65	%
Rate of compensation increase		N/A			N/A			N/A			N/A
Health care cost trend rate - initial		N/A			N/A			7.25	%		7.25	%
Health care cost trend rate - ultimate		N/A			N/A			5	%		5	%
Year ultimate reached		N/A			N/A			2022			2022
The effect of a 1% increase (decrease) in health care cost trend rates on benefit expense and on other post-retirement benefit obligations is not significant.
Pretax amounts included in accumulated other comprehensive loss at December 31, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:
		Pension Benefits								Other Post-Retirement Benefits
(in thousands)		2013				2012				2013			2012
Prior service cost (credit)		$	—			$	32			$	(1,506	)	$	—
Net actuarial loss		203,627				269,005				440			1,851
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		$	203,627			$	269,037			$	(1,066	)	$	1,851
The pretax amount of actuarial losses and prior service cost (credit) included in accumulated other comprehensive loss at December 31, 2013 that is expected to be recognized in net periodic benefit cost in 2014 is $7.7 million and $0.0 million, respectively, for defined benefit pension plans and $0.0 million and $(0.1) million, respectively, for other post-retirement benefit plans.
Other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in comprehensive income (loss) are as follows:
		Pension Benefits											Other Post-Retirement Benefits
(in thousands)		2013				2012				2011			2013				2012			2011
Current year actuarial gain (loss)		$	54,698			$	(52,305	)		$	(93,031	)	$	1,403			$	(150	)	$	(649	)
Amortization of actuarial loss		10,680				8,623				10,772			8				86			41
Current year prior service credit		—				—				—			1,506				—			—
Amortization of prior service cost		32				44				62			—				—			—
Total recognized in comprehensive income (loss)		$	65,410			$	(43,638	)		$	(82,197	)	$	2,917			$	(64	)	$	(608	)
The actuarial loss occurred principally because the historical investment returns on the assets of the WHX Pension Plan have been lower than actuarial assumptions.
Benefit obligations were in excess of plan assets for all pension plans and other post-retirement benefit plans at both December 31, 2013 and 2012. The accumulated benefit obligation for all defined benefit pension plans was $497.5 million and $547.5 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Additional information for plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets:
		Pension Benefits								Other Post-Retirement Benefits
(in thousands)		2013				2012				2013			2012
Projected benefit obligation		$	497,540			$	547,456			$	1,084		$	4,208
Accumulated benefit obligation		$	497,540			$	547,456			$	1,084		$	4,208
Fair value of plan assets		$	353,973			$	330,471			$	—		$	—
In determining the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets, the Company evaluated input from various investment professionals. In addition, the Company considered its historical compound returns, as well as the Company's forward-looking expectations. The Company determines its actuarial assumptions for its pension and other post-retirement plans on December 31 of each year to calculate liability information as of that date and pension and other post-retirement expense for the following year. The discount rate assumption is derived from the rate of return on high-quality bonds as of December 31 of each year.
The Company's investment policy is to maximize the total rate of return with a view to long-term funding objectives of the pension plan to ensure that funds are available to meet benefit obligations when due. Pension plan assets are diversified to the extent necessary to minimize risk and to achieve an optimal balance between risk and return. There are no target allocations. The WHX Pension Plan's assets are diversified as to type of assets, investment strategies employed and number of investment managers used. Investments may include equities, fixed income, cash equivalents, convertible securities and private investment funds. Derivatives may be used as part of the investment strategy. The Company may direct the transfer of assets between investment managers in order to rebalance the portfolio in accordance with asset allocation guidelines established by the Company.
The fair value of pension investments is defined by reference to one of three categories (Level 1, Level 2 or Level 3) based on the reliability of inputs, as such terms are defined in Note 18 - "Fair Value Measurements."
The WHX/Bear Pension Plan assets at December 31, 2013 and 2012, by asset category, are as follows:
(in thousands)
Fair Value Measurements as of December 31, 2013:
		Assets (Liabilities) at Fair Value as of December 31, 2013
Asset Class		Level 1				Level 2				Level 3			Total
Equity securities:
U.S. large cap		$	27,389			$	596			$	—		$	27,985
U.S. mid-cap growth		62,477				—				—			62,477
U.S. small-cap value		14,460				2,031				—			16,491
International large cap value		16,355				—				—			16,355
Equity contracts		96				—				—			96
Fixed income securities:
Corporate bonds and loans		33				63,405				503			63,941
Other types of investments:
Common trust funds (1)		—				98,610				—			98,610
Fund of funds (2)		—				41,898				—			41,898
		120,810				206,540				503			327,853
Shorts		(62,776		)		(938		)		—			(63,714		)
Total		$	58,034			$	205,602			$	503		264,139
Cash and cash equivalents													94,130
Net payables													(4,296		)
Total pension assets													$	353,973
Fair Value Measurements as of December 31, 2012:
		Assets (Liabilities) at Fair Value as of December 31, 2012
Asset Class		Level 1				Level 2				Level 3			Total
Equity securities:
U.S. large cap		$	20,572			$	543			$	—		$	21,115
U.S. mid-cap growth		36,065				—				209			36,274
U.S. small-cap value		15,295				138				—			15,433
International large cap value		16,118				116				—			16,234
Equity contracts		308				—				—			308
Preferred stocks		530				2,016				—			2,546
Fixed income securities:
Corporate bonds and loans		415				51,052				548			52,015
Other types of investments:
Common trust funds (1)		—				68,830				—			68,830
Fund of funds (2)		—				37,142				—			37,142
		89,303				159,837				757			249,897
Futures contracts, net		(58,148		)		5,478				—			(52,670		)
Total		$	31,155			$	165,315			$	757		197,227
Cash and cash equivalents													133,590
Net payables													(346		)
Total pension assets													$	330,471
-1	Common trust funds are comprised of shares or units in commingled funds that are not publicly traded. The underlying assets in these funds are primarily publicly traded equity securities, fixed income securities and commodity-related securities and are valued at their Net Asset Values ("NAV") that are calculated by the investment manager or sponsor of the fund.
-2	Fund of funds consist of fund-of-fund LLC or commingled fund structures. The underlying assets in these funds are primarily publicly traded equity securities, fixed income securities and commodity-related securities. The LLCs are valued based on NAVs calculated by the fund and are not publicly available.
The Company's policy is to recognize transfers in and transfers out of Level 3 as of the date of the event or change in circumstances that caused the transfer.
Changes in the WHX/Bear Pension Plan assets for which fair value is determined using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) were as follows during 2013 and 2012:
Changes in Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Year Ended December 31, 2013		U.S. Large Cap				U.S. Mid Cap Growth				Corporate Bonds and Loans
(in thousands)
Beginning balance as of January 1, 2013		$	—			$	209			$	548
Transfers into Level 3		—				—				—
Transfers out of Level 3		—				—				—
Gains or losses included in changes in net assets		—				23				85
Purchases, issuances, sales and settlements
Purchases		—				—				—
Issuances		—				—				—
Sales		—				(232		)		(130		)
Settlements		—				—				—
Ending balance as of December 31, 2013		$	—			$	—			$	503
Year Ended December 31, 2012		U.S. Large Cap				U.S. Mid Cap Growth				Corporate Bonds and Loans
(in thousands)
Beginning balance as of January 1, 2012		$	593			$	—			$	—
Transfers into Level 3		—				—				—
Transfers out of Level 3		—				—				—
Gains or losses included in changes in net assets		673				145				11
Purchases, issuances, sales and settlements
Purchases		—				—				547
Issuances		—				64				—
Sales		(1,202		)		—				(10		)
Settlements		(64		)		—				—
Ending balance as of December 31, 2012		$	—			$	209			$	548
The following tables present the category, fair value, redemption frequency and redemption notice period for those assets whose fair value was estimated using the NAV per share (or its equivalents), as well as plan assets which have redemption notice periods, as of December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (in thousands):
Class Name		Description		Fair Value December 31, 2013				Redemption frequency		Redemption Notice Period
Fund of funds		Equity long/short hedge funds		$	5,707			Quarterly		45 day notice
Fund of funds		Fund of fund composites		$	36,191			Quarterly		45 day notice
Common trust funds		Equity long/short hedge funds		$	12,635			Annually		90 day notice
Common trust funds		Event driven hedge funds		$	69,255			Annually		45 day notice
Common trust funds		Event driven hedge funds		$	16,720			Monthly		90 day notice
Separately managed fund		Separately managed fund		$	34,991			Monthly		30 day notice
Separately managed fund		Separately managed fund		$	77,093			Quarterly		45 day notice
Class Name		Description		Fair Value December 31, 2012				Redemption frequency		Redemption Notice Period
Fund of funds		Equity long/short hedge funds		$	4,862			Quarterly		45 day notice
Fund of funds		Fund of fund composites		$	32,280			Quarterly		45 day notice
Common trust funds		Event driven hedge funds		$	55,853			Annually		45 day notice
Common trust funds		Event driven hedge funds		$	12,977			Monthly		90 day notice
Separately managed fund		Separately managed fund		$	33,324			Monthly		30 day notice
Separately managed fund		Separately managed fund		$	64,490			Quarterly		45 day notice
Unfunded Commitments
As of December 31, 2013, the Plan had an unfunded commitment for additional capital of approximately $39.0 million to an event driven hedge fund. The commitment was funded in January 2014 through an in-kind transfer from one of the Plan's separately managed funds.
Contributions
Employer contributions consist of funds paid from employer assets into a qualified pension trust account. The Company's funding policy is to contribute annually an amount that satisfies the minimum funding standards of ERISA.
The Company expects to have required minimum pension contributions for 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and for the five years thereafter of $24.3 million, $21.7 million, $17.1 million, $15.8 million, $13.9 million, and $27.6 million, respectively. Required future contributions are determined based upon assumptions such as discount rates on future obligations, assumed rates of return on plan assets and legislative changes. Pension costs and required funding obligations will be affected by changes in the factors and assumptions described in the previous sentence, as well as other changes such as any plan termination.
Benefit Payments
Estimated future benefit payments for the benefit plans over the next ten years are as follows (in thousands):
		Pension				Other Post-Retirement
Years		Benefits				Benefits
2014		$	34,813			$	111
2015		34,640				118
2016		34,456				112
2017		34,247				100
2018		34,018				94
2019- 2023		163,182				366
401(k) Plans
Certain employees participate in a Company sponsored savings plan, which qualifies under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. This savings plan allows eligible employees to contribute from 1% to 75% of their income on a pretax basis. The Company presently makes a contribution to match 50% of the first 6% of the employee's contribution. The charge to expense for the Company's matching contribution amounted to $1.4 million, $1.8 million and $2.0 million in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Stockholders_Equity

Stockholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]	'
Stockholders' Equity	'
	Stockholders' Equity
	The Company's authorized capital stock is a total of 185,000,000 shares, consisting of 180,000,000 shares of common stock and 5,000,000 shares of preferred stock. Of the authorized shares, no shares of preferred stock have been issued. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, 12,985,840 and 13,140,004 shares of common stock were outstanding, respectively.
	Although the Board of Directors of HNH is expressly authorized to fix the designations, preferences and rights, limitations or restrictions of the preferred stock by adoption of a Preferred Stock Designation resolution, the Board of Directors has not yet done so. The common stock of HNH has voting power, is entitled to receive dividends when and if declared by the Board of Directors and is subject to any preferential dividend rights of any then-outstanding preferred stock, and in liquidation, after distribution of the preferential amount, if any, due to preferred stockholders, are entitled to receive all the remaining assets of the corporation.
	Common Stock Repurchase Program
	On May 29, 2013, the Company's Board of Directors approved the repurchase of up to an aggregate of $2.0 million of the Company's common stock. On June 27, 2013, the Board of Directors further approved the repurchase of up to an aggregate of $8.0 million of the Company's common stock, which was in addition to the previously approved repurchase up to an aggregate of $2.0 million of common stock. Such repurchases were made from time to time on the open market at prevailing market prices or in negotiated transactions off the market, in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The Company repurchased 458,131 shares for a total purchase price of approximately $9.8 million under the repurchase program, which concluded at the end of 2013.
	Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income
	Changes, net of tax, in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income and its components follow:
	(in thousands)	Unrealized (Loss) Gain on Marketable Equity Securities			Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments			Change in Net Pension and Other Benefit Obligations			Total
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	(4,072	)	$	2,481		$	(224,577	)	$	(226,168	)
	Current period income	1,710			56			42,675			44,441
	Reclassification adjustments, net of tax	2,362			(2,566		)	—			(204		)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	—		$	(29	)	$	(181,902	)	$	(181,931	)
	Income tax (provisions) benefits of $(28.7) million, $20.5 million and $24.2 million were recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss for 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
	As discussed in Note 10 - "Investments," the Company's investment in ModusLink became subject to the equity method of accounting during the first quarter of 2013. Accordingly, the accumulated unrealized loss of $2.4 million on available-for-sale securities associated with this investment was reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive loss and into earnings, as a component of gain from associated company, net of tax.
	As discussed in Note 5 - "Discontinued Operations," the Company completed the final liquidation of ITD in July 2013 and recognized $2.6 million in foreign currency translation gains in earnings during the third quarter of 2013, which were previously reported in accumulated other comprehensive loss on the consolidated balance sheet.

StockBased_Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]	'
Stock-Based Compensation	'
	Stock-Based Compensation
	The Company has granted restricted stock awards and stock options under its 2007 Incentive Stock Plan, as amended ("2007 Plan"), to certain employees, members of the Board of Directors and service providers. On May 21, 2013, the Company's stockholders approved an increase in the number of shares authorized for issuance under the 2007 Plan from 1,650,000 shares to 2,075,000 shares.
	Restricted Stock
	Restricted stock grants made to employees are in lieu of a long-term incentive plan component in the Company's bonus plan for those individuals who receive shares of restricted stock. Compensation expense is measured based on the fair value of the stock-based awards on the grant date, as measured by the NASDAQ closing price for the Company's common stock. Compensation expense is recognized in the consolidated income statement on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period, which is the vesting period.
	In 2011, the Compensation Committee of the Company's Board of Directors approved the grant of 495,600 shares of restricted stock awards to certain employees, members of the Board of Directors and service providers. The restricted stock grants made to the employees and service providers, totaling 289,600 shares, vested with respect to 25% of the award upon grant and vest in equal annual installments over a three year period from the grant date with respect to the remaining 75% of the award. Additionally, the Compensation Committee also approved the grant of (a) 1,000 shares of restricted stock to each Director other than the Chairman and Vice Chairman, and (b) 100,000 shares of restricted stock to each of the Chairman and Vice Chairman, or a total of 205,000 shares to Directors. On June 17, 2011, the Company granted 1,000 shares in a restricted stock award to a newly-appointed Director. The restricted stock grants to the Directors vested one year from the date of grant.
	In 2012 and 2013, respectively, the Compensation Committee approved the grant of an aggregate 525,400 and 319,788 shares of restricted stock to certain employees, members of the Board of Directors and service providers. The restricted stock grants made to the employees and service providers in 2012 and 2013 vest in equal annual installments over a three year period from the grant date. The restricted stock grants to the Directors vest one year from the grant date.
	The Company allows certain grantees to forego the issuance of shares to meet any applicable income tax withholding due as a result of the vesting of restricted stock. Such shares are returned to the unissued shares of the Company's common stock. During the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, 2,615 and 20,494 shares, respectively, were foregone in connection with income tax withholding obligations.
	Restricted stock activity under the 2007 Plan was as follows for the years ended December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:
	(shares)	Employees		Directors		Total
	Balance, January 1, 2013	503,440		458,000		961,440
	Granted	157,788		162,000		319,788
	Forfeited	(13,202	)	—		(13,202	)
	Reduced for income tax obligations	(2,615	)	—		(2,615	)
	Balance, December 31, 2013	645,411		620,000		1,265,411
	Vested at December 31, 2013	270,124		458,000		728,124
	Non-vested at December 31, 2013	375,287		162,000		537,287
		Employees		Directors		Total
	Balance, January 1, 2012	261,934		206,000		467,934
	Granted	273,400		252,000		525,400
	Forfeited	(11,400	)	—		(11,400	)
	Reduced for income tax obligations	(20,494	)	—		(20,494	)
	Balance, December 31, 2012	503,440		458,000		961,440
	The Company has recognized compensation expense related to restricted shares of $4.9 million, $4.5 million and $3.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Unearned compensation expense related to restricted shares at December 31, 2013 is $3.6 million, which is net of an estimated 5% forfeiture rate for employees and service providers. This amount will be recognized over the remaining vesting period of the restricted shares.
	Stock Options
	In July 2007, stock options were granted to certain employees and Directors under the 2007 Plan. The 2007 Plan permits options to be granted up to a maximum contractual term of 10 years. The Company's policy is to use shares of unissued common stock upon exercise of stock options.
	The Company estimated the fair value of the stock options granted in accordance with U.S. GAAP using a Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The expected average risk-free rate was based on a U.S. treasury yield curve. The expected average life represented the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding. Expected volatility was based on historical volatilities of HNH's common stock. The expected dividend yield was based on historical information and management's plan.
	The Company recorded no compensation expense related to its stock options in 2013, 2012 or 2011 since the options fully vested prior to 2010.
	Stock option activity under the Company's 2007 Plan was as follows in 2013:
	Options	Shares (000's)		Weighted-Average Exercise Price			Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years)	Aggregate Intrinsic Value (000's)
	Outstanding options at December 31, 2012	49		$	90		3.34	$	—
	Granted	—		—				—
	Exercised	—		—				—
	Forfeited or expired	(7	)	90				—
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013	42		$	90		2.34	$	—
	Exercisable at December 31, 2013	42		$	90		2.34	$	—
	As of December 31, 2013, there were 767,389 shares reserved for future issuance under the 2007 Plan.
	On July 6, 2007, the Compensation Committee adopted an incentive arrangement for a member of the Board of Directors who is a related party to the Company. This arrangement provides, among other things, for this individual to receive a bonus equal to 10,000 multiplied by the difference of the fair market value of the Company's stock price and $90.00 per share. The incentive arrangement terminates July 6, 2015, to the extent not previously received. Under U.S. GAAP, the Company is required to adjust its obligation for the fair value of such incentive arrangements from the date of actual grant to the latest balance sheet date and to record such incentive arrangements as liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet. The Company recorded $0.2 million and $0.1 million of non-cash income in 2012 and 2011, respectively, associated with such awards. No income or expense was recorded in 2013.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Income Taxes	'
	Income Taxes
	Income from continuing operations before tax and equity investment for the three years ended December 31 is as follows:
		Year Ended December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013				2012				2011
	Domestic	$	36,256			$	28,717			$	20,183
	Foreign	1,893				6,497				8,145
	Total income from continuing operations before tax and equity investment	$	38,149			$	35,214			$	28,328
	The provision for (benefit from) income taxes for the three years ended December 31 is as follows:
				Year Ended December 31,
	(in thousands)			2013				2012				2011
	Current
		Domestic		$	2,591			$	2,662			$	1,564
		Foreign		1,123				1,224				1,287
		Total income taxes, current		$	3,714			$	3,886			$	2,851
	Deferred
		Domestic		$	12,757			$	9,071			$	(109,309	)
		Foreign		(443		)		108				370
		Total income taxes, deferred		$	12,314			$	9,179			$	(108,939	)
	Total income tax provision (benefit)			$	16,028			$	13,065			$	(106,088	)
	Deferred income taxes result from temporary differences in the financial basis and tax basis of assets and liabilities. The amounts shown on the following table represent the tax effect of temporary differences between the Company's consolidated tax return basis of assets and liabilities and the corresponding basis for financial reporting, as well as tax credit and operating loss carryforwards.
	(in thousands)	December 31,
	Deferred Income Tax Sources	2013				2012
	Current Deferred Income Tax Items:
	Inventories	$	2,426			$	3,503
	Environmental costs	1,220				2,377
	Net operating loss carryforwards	13,323				14,530
	Accrued liabilities	3,046				3,264
	Other items, net	913				1,023
	Current deferred income tax assets before valuation allowance	20,928				24,697
	Valuation allowance	(421		)		(324		)
	Deferred income tax assets - current	$	20,507			$	24,373
	Foreign	$	(433	)		$	(1,022	)
	Deferred income tax liabilities - current	$	(433	)		$	(1,022	)
	Non-Current Deferred Income Tax Items:
	Post-retirement and post-employment employee benefits	$	904			$	1,817
	Net operating loss carryforwards	27,198				45,794
	Pension liability	53,624				81,392
	Impairment of long-lived assets	2,636				2,528
	Minimum tax credit carryforwards	3,265				2,287
	Miscellaneous other	1,953				4,397
	Non-current deferred income tax assets before valuation allowance	89,580				138,215
	Valuation allowance	(1,729		)		(1,814		)
	Non-current deferred income tax assets	87,851				136,401
	Property, plant and equipment	(13,558		)		(13,802		)
	Intangible assets	(9,378		)		(7,526		)
	Undistributed foreign earnings	(568		)		(534		)
	Other items, net	(4,661		)		(1,971		)
	Non-current deferred income tax liabilities	(28,165		)		(23,833		)
	Net non-current deferred income tax assets	$	59,686			$	112,568
	As of December 31, 2010, the Company had established a deferred income tax valuation allowance of $116.7 million against its deferred income tax assets. The valuation allowance was recorded because the realizability of the deferred income tax benefit of the Company's net operating loss carryforwards and other deferred income tax assets was not considered "more likely than not." In the fourth quarter of 2011, the Company changed its judgment about the realizability of its deferred income tax assets. The recognition of this non-cash tax benefit followed an assessment of the Company's domestic operations and of the likelihood that the associated deferred income tax assets will be realized. We considered factors such as recent financial results, forecast future operating income of our subsidiaries, expected future taxable income, mix of taxable income and available carryforward periods. As a result, we estimated that it is more likely than not that we will be able to realize the benefit of certain deferred income tax assets. However, in certain jurisdictions, we do not consider it more likely than not that all of our state net operating loss carryforwards will be realized in future periods and have retained a valuation allowance against those. Because the determination of the realizability of deferred income tax assets is based upon management's judgment of future events and uncertainties, the amount of the deferred income tax assets realized could be reduced if actual future income or future income tax rates are lower than currently enacted rates.
	In accordance with ASC 740, Income Taxes, the effect of a change in the beginning-of-the-year balance of a valuation allowance that results from a change in circumstances that causes a change in judgment about the realizability of the related deferred income tax asset in future years should be included in income from continuing operations in the period of the change. Accordingly, in the fourth quarter of 2011, the Company recorded a non-cash tax benefit in income from continuing operations, net of tax, as a result of the reversal of its deferred income tax valuation allowance.
	Included in deferred income tax assets as of December 31, 2013 is a $40.5 million tax effect of the Company's U.S. federal NOLs of $106.9 million, as well as certain state NOLs. The U.S. federal NOLs expire between 2024 and 2029. Also included in deferred income tax assets are tax credit carryforwards of $3.3 million. The Company's 2013 tax provisions from continuing and discontinued operations reflect utilization of approximately $53.0 million of federal NOLs.
	In 2005, the Company experienced an ownership change as defined by Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code upon its emergence from bankruptcy. Section 382 imposes annual limitations on the utilization of net operating carryforwards post-ownership change. The Company believes it qualifies for the bankruptcy exception to the general Section 382 limitations. Under this exception, the annual limitation imposed by Section 382 resulting from an ownership change will not apply; instead the NOLs must be reduced by certain interest expense paid to creditors who became stockholders as a result of the bankruptcy reorganization. Thus, the Company's U.S. federal NOLs of $106.9 million as of December 31, 2013 include a reduction of $31.0 million ($10.8 million tax-effect).
	The Company provides income taxes on the undistributed earnings of non-U.S. corporate subsidiaries, except to the extent that such earnings are permanently invested outside the United States. As of December 31, 2013, $14.1 million of accumulated undistributed earnings of non-U.S. corporate subsidiaries were permanently invested. At existing applicable income tax rates, additional taxes of approximately $4.9 million would need to be provided if such earnings were remitted.
	Total federal, state and foreign income taxes paid in 2013, 2012 and 2011 were $7.5 million, $4.2 million, and $4.3 million, respectively. On the consolidated balance sheet, net current income taxes totaled $0.0 million as of December 31, 2013 and a $0.2 million receivable as of December 31, 2012.
	The provision (benefit) for income taxes differs from the amount of income tax determined by applying the applicable U.S. statutory federal income tax rate to pretax income as follows:
		Year Ended December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013				2012				2011
	Income from continuing operations before tax and equity investment	$	38,149			$	35,214			$	28,328
	Tax provision at statutory rate	$	13,352			$	12,325			$	9,915
	Increase (decrease) in tax due to:
	Foreign dividend income	—				—				929
	State income tax, net of federal effect	2,455				2,396				919
Net increase (decrease) in valuation allowance	12				(454		)		(116,689		)
(Decrease) increase in liability for uncertain tax positions	(679		)		8				43
Net effect of foreign tax rate and tax holidays	17				(942		)		(369		)
Other items, net	871				(268		)		(836		)
Tax provision (benefit)	$	16,028			$	13,065			$	(106,088	)
U.S. GAAP provides that the tax effects from an uncertain tax position can be recognized in the financial statements only if the position is more likely than not of being sustained on audit, based on the technical merits of the position. At December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company had $1.3 million and $2.3 million, respectively, of unrecognized tax benefits recorded, all of which, net of federal benefit, would affect the Company's effective tax rate if recognized. The changes in the amount of unrecognized tax benefits in 2013 and 2012 were as follows:
	Year Ended December 31,
(in thousands)	2013				2012
Beginning balance	$	2,273			$	2,306
Additions for tax positions related to current year	404				368
Additions due to interest accrued	80				100
Tax positions of prior years:
Payments	(250		)		(42		)
Settlements	(640		)		—
Due to lapsed statutes of limitations	(488		)		(484		)
Other	(35		)		25
Ending balance	$	1,344			$	2,273
The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in its income tax provision. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, approximately $0.1 million and $0.4 million, respectively, of interest related to uncertain tax positions was accrued. No penalties were accrued. It is reasonably possible that the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits will decrease by as much as $0.3 million during the next twelve months as a result of the lapse of the applicable statutes of limitations in certain taxing jurisdictions. Adjustments to the reserve could occur in light of changing facts and circumstances with respect to the on-going examinations discussed below.
The Company is generally no longer subject to federal, state or local income tax examinations by tax authorities for any year prior to 2010, except as set forth below. However, NOLs generated in prior years are subject to examination and potential adjustment by the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") upon their utilization in future years' tax returns.
The IRS initiated an examination of our federal consolidated income tax return for 2010 in the second quarter of 2012, which was settled during 2013 with minor adjustments. In 2014, the IRS will conduct a limited review of our 2012 federal consolidated income tax return. We do not currently believe an increase in the reserve for uncertain tax positions is necessary. In addition, certain subsidiaries were examined by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts ("Commonwealth") for the years 2003 to 2005, and the Company settled that examination during 2013 for $0.3 million. The Commonwealth also examined the 2008 tax return and issued an assessment for $0.3 million, which the Company is disputing. Examinations of 2009 and 2010 are also being conducted by the Commonwealth, as well as examinations by the State of New York and the State of Missouri for 2009 to 2011. These examinations are currently in progress, and we do not believe an increase in the reserve for uncertain tax positions is necessary.

Earnings_Per_Share

Earnings Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Earnings Per Share	'
	Earnings Per Share
	The computation of basic earnings per share of common stock is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of shares of the Company's common stock outstanding, as follows:
		Year Ended December 31,
	(in thousands, except per share)	2013		2012		2011
	Income from continuing operations, net of tax	$	28,127	$	22,149	$	134,416
	Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding	13,251		13,032		12,555
	Income from continuing operations, net of tax, per share	$	2.12	$	1.7	$	10.71
	Net income from discontinued operations	$	13,902	$	4,332	$	4,359
	Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding	13,251		13,032		12,555
	Discontinued operations, net of tax, per share	$	1.05	$	0.33	$	0.34
	Net income	$	42,029	$	26,481	$	138,775
	Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding	13,251		13,032		12,555
	Net income per share	$	3.17	$	2.03	$	11.05
	Diluted earnings per share gives effect to dilutive potential common shares outstanding during the reporting period. The Company had potentially dilutive common share equivalents, in the form of outstanding stock options (see Note 15 - "Stock-Based Compensation"), during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, although none were dilutive because the exercise price of these equivalents exceeded the market value of the Company's common stock during those periods. As of December 31, 2013, stock options for an aggregate of 42,200 shares are excluded from the calculations above.

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Measurements	'
	Fair Value Measurements
	Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (i.e. the "exit price") in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Fair value measurements are broken down into three levels based on the reliability of inputs as follows:
	Level 1 inputs are quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access at the measurement date. An active market for the asset or liability is a market in which transactions for the asset or liability occur with sufficient frequency and volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis. The valuation under this approach does not entail a significant degree of judgment ("Level 1").
	Level 2 inputs are inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 2 inputs include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability (e.g. interest rates and yield curves observable at commonly quoted intervals or current market) and contractual prices for the underlying financial instrument, as well as other relevant economic measures ("Level 2").
	Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. Unobservable inputs are used to measure fair value to the extent that observable inputs are not available, thereby allowing for situations in which there is little, if any, market activity for the asset or liability at the measurement date ("Level 3").
	The fair value of the Company's financial instruments, such as cash and cash equivalents, trade and other receivables, and trade payables, approximate carrying value due to the short-term maturities of these assets and liabilities. Carrying cost approximates fair value for the Company's long-term debt which has variable interest rates.
	The fair value of the Company's investment in associated company is a Level 1 measurement because the underlying security is listed on a national securities exchange.
	The precious metal and commodity inventories associated with the Company's fair value hedges (see Note 12 - "Derivative Instruments") are reported at fair value. Fair value of these inventories is based on quoted market prices on commodity exchanges and are considered Level 1 measurements. The derivative instruments that the Company purchases in connection with its precious metal and commodity inventories, specifically commodity futures and forwards contracts, are also valued at fair value. The futures contracts are Level 1 measurements since they are traded on a commodity exchange. The forward contracts are entered into with a counterparty and are considered Level 2 measurements.
	The Company's interest rate swap agreements associated with its Senior Credit Facility are considered Level 2 measurements as the inputs are observable at commonly quoted intervals. Prior to the redemption of the Subordinated Notes and related Warrants, the embedded derivative features of the Subordinated Notes and Warrants (see Note 11 - "Debt") were valued at fair value on a recurring basis and were considered Level 3 measurements.
	The following table summarizes the Company's assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis, the amounts on the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the activity in those assets and liabilities that are valued using Level 3 measurements.
		Asset (Liability) as of December 31, 2013
	(in thousands)	Total			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
	Investment in associated company	$	33,983		$	33,983		$	—		$	—
	Precious metal and commodity inventories recorded at fair value	$	14,766		$	14,766		$	—		$	—
	Commodity contracts on precious metal and commodity inventories	$	1,620		$	1,620		$	—		$	—
	Interest rate swap agreements	$	(214	)	$	—		$	(214	)	$	—
		Asset (Liability) as of December 31, 2012
	(in thousands)	Total			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
	Investment in associated company	$	17,229		$	17,229		$	—		$	—
	Commodity contracts on precious metal and commodity inventories	$	100		$	127		$	(27	)	$	—
	Derivative features of Subordinated Notes	$	793		$	—		$	—		$	793
	(in thousands)	Year ended December 31,
	Activity	2013			2012
	Beginning balance	$	793		$	(1,314	)
	Total net (losses) gains included in:
	Net income	(793		)	2,060
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	—			—
	Purchases	—			—
	Issuances	—			—
	Sales	—			—
	Settlements	—			47
	Net transfers into / (out of) Level 3	—			—
	Ending balance	$	—		$	793
	The (loss) income of $(0.8) million and $2.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, noted above are (losses) gains that are attributable to the fair value of the embedded derivatives associated with the Company's Subordinated Notes and related redemption. The settlements relate to repurchases of certain Subordinated Notes (see Note 11- "Debt"). The valuation of the derivative features of the Subordinated Notes and Warrants utilized a customized binomial model, which valued the embedded derivatives in such notes and the associated Warrants in a unified way, using a cash flow approach. Interest rates and the market price of HNH's stock were significant inputs that influenced the valuation of the derivatives.
	The Company's non-financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis include goodwill and other intangible assets, any assets and liabilities acquired in a business combination, or its long-lived assets written-down to fair value. To measure fair value for such assets and liabilities, the Company uses techniques including an income approach, a market approach and/or appraisals (Level 3 inputs). The income approach is based on a discounted cash flow analysis and calculates the fair value by estimating the after-tax cash flows attributable to an asset or liability and then discounting the after-tax cash flows to a present value using a risk-adjusted discount rate. Assumptions used in the discounted cash flow analysis ("DCF") require the exercise of significant judgment, including judgment about appropriate discount rates and terminal values, growth rates and the amount and timing of expected future cash flows. The discount rates, which are intended to reflect the risks inherent in future cash flow projections, used in the DCF are based on estimates of the weighted-average cost of capital of a market participant. Such estimates are derived from analysis of peer companies and consider the industry weighted-average return on debt and equity from a market participant perspective. A market approach values a business by considering the prices at which shares of capital stock, or related underlying assets, of reasonably comparable companies are trading in the public market or the transaction price at which similar companies have been acquired. If comparable companies are not available, the market approach is not used.
	Long-lived assets consisting of land and buildings used in previously operating businesses and currently unused, which total $9.4 million as of December 31, 2013, are carried at the lower of cost or fair value, and are included primarily in other non-current assets on the consolidated balance sheet. A reduction in the carrying value of such long-lived assets is recorded as an asset impairment charge in the consolidated income statement. A non-cash asset impairment charge of $0.7 million was recorded in 2011 related to vacant land owned by the Company's Arlon segment located in Rancho Cucamonga, California. The Company reduced this property's carrying value by $0.7 million to reflect its lower fair market value.

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Commitments and Contingencies	'
	Commitments and Contingencies
	Operating Lease Commitments
	The Company leases certain facilities under non-cancelable operating lease arrangements. Rent expense for the Company in 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $4.8 million, $4.2 million and $4.5 million, respectively. Future minimum operating lease and rental commitments under non-cancelable operating leases are as follows (in thousands):
	Year	Amount
	2014	4,331
	2015	3,060
	2016	2,506
	2017	1,938
	2018	1,430
	Thereafter	2,226
		$	15,491
	On June 30, 2008, Arlon Inc. (now Arlon, LLC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bairnco and part of the Arlon segment, (i) sold land and a building located in Rancho Cucamonga, California for $8.5 million and (ii) leased back such property under a 15 year operating lease with two 5-year renewal options. The annual lease payments are $0.6 million, and are subject to a maximum increase of 5% per annum. The lease expires in 2023. Such amounts are included in the operating lease commitment table above. Bairnco has agreed to guarantee the payment and performance of Arlon Inc. under the lease. To account for the sale leaseback, the property was removed from the books, but the recognition of a $1.8 million gain on the sale of the property was deferred and will be recognized ratably over the 15 year lease term as a reduction of lease expense. Approximately $1.2 million and $1.4 million of such deferred gain was included in other long-term liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	Environmental Matters
	Certain subsidiaries of H&H Group have existing and contingent liabilities relating to environmental matters, including capital expenditures, costs of remediation, and potential fines and penalties relating to possible violations of national and state environmental laws. Those subsidiaries have substantial remediation expenses on an ongoing basis, although such costs are continually being readjusted based upon the emergence of new techniques and alternative methods. The Company had approximately $3.2 million accrued related to estimated environmental remediation costs as of December 31, 2013. In addition, the Company has insurance coverage available for several of these matters and believes that excess insurance coverage may be available as well. During the quarter ended September 30, 2013, the Company recorded an insurance reimbursement receivable of $1.1 million for previously incurred remediation costs, which was collected during the quarter ended December 31, 2013. Based upon information currently available, the H&H Group subsidiaries do not expect that their respective environmental costs, including the incurrence of additional fines and penalties, if any, will have a material adverse effect on them or that the resolution of these environmental matters will have a material adverse effect on the financial position, results of operations or cash flows of such subsidiaries or the Company, but there can be no such assurances. The Company anticipates that the H&H Group subsidiaries will pay any such amounts out of their respective working capital, although there is no assurance that they will have sufficient funds to pay them. In the event that the H&H Group subsidiaries are unable to fund their liabilities, claims could be made against their respective parent companies, including H&H Group and/or HNH, for payment of such liabilities.
	In addition, certain subsidiaries of H&H Group have been identified as potentially responsible parties ("PRPs") under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act ("CERCLA") or similar state statutes at sites and are parties to administrative consent orders in connection with certain properties. Those subsidiaries may be subject to joint and several liabilities imposed by CERCLA on PRPs. Due to the technical and regulatory complexity of remedial activities and the difficulties attendant in identifying PRPs and allocating or determining liability among them, the subsidiaries are unable to reasonably estimate the ultimate cost of compliance with such laws.
	Among the sites where certain subsidiaries of H&H Group may have existing and material environmental liabilities are the following:
	H&H has been working with the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection ("CTDEP") with respect to its obligations under a 1989 consent order that applies to a property in Connecticut that H&H sold in 2003 ("Sold Parcel") and an adjacent parcel ("Adjacent Parcel") that together with the Sold Parcel comprises the site of a former H&H manufacturing facility. Remediation of all soil conditions on the Sold Parcel was completed on April 6, 2007. On September 11, 2008, the CTDEP advised H&H that it had approved H&H's December 28, 2007 Soil Remediation Action Report, as amended, thereby concluding the active remediation of the Sold Parcel. The remaining remediation and monitoring costs for the Sold Parcel are expected to approximate $0.1 million. With respect to the Adjacent Parcel, H&H has been conducting an ecological risk assessment and an environmental field investigation in order to assess viable remediation options. The total remediation costs for the Adjacent Parcel cannot be reasonably estimated at this time. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the resolution of this matter will not be material to the financial position, results of operations or cash flows of H&H or the Company.
	In 1986, Handy & Harman Electronic Materials Corporation ("HHEM"), a subsidiary of H&H, entered into an administrative consent order ("ACO") with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection ("NJDEP") with regard to certain property that it purchased in 1984 in New Jersey. The ACO involves investigation and remediation activities to be performed with regard to soil and groundwater contamination. Thereafter, in 1998, HHEM and H&H settled a case brought by the local municipality in regard to this site and also settled with certain of its insurance carriers. HHEM is actively remediating the property and continuing to investigate effective methods for achieving compliance with the ACO. A remedial investigation report was filed with the NJDEP in December 2007. By letter dated December 12, 2008, the NJDEP issued its approval with respect to additional investigation and remediation activities discussed in the December 2007 remedial investigation report. HHEM anticipates entering into discussions with the NJDEP to address that agency's potential natural resource damage claims, the ultimate scope and cost of which cannot be estimated at this time. Pursuant to a settlement agreement with the former owner/operator of the site, the responsibility for site investigation and remediation costs, as well as any other costs, as defined in the settlement agreement, related to or arising from environmental contamination on the property (collectively, "Costs") are contractually allocated 75% to the former owner/operator (with separate guaranties by the two joint venture partners of the former owner/operator for 37.5% each) and 25% jointly to HHEM and H&H after the first $1.0 million. The $1.0 million was paid solely by the former owner/operator. As of December 31, 2013, over and above the $1.0 million, total investigation and remediation costs of approximately $3.6 million and $1.2 million have been expended by the former owner/operator and HHEM, respectively, in accordance with the settlement agreement. Additionally, HHEM is currently being reimbursed indirectly through insurance coverage for a portion of the Costs for which HHEM is responsible. HHEM believes that there is additional excess insurance coverage, which it intends to pursue as necessary. HHEM anticipates that there will be additional remediation expenses to be incurred once a final remediation plan is agreed upon. There is no assurance that the former owner/operator or guarantors will continue to timely reimburse HHEM for expenditures and/or will be financially capable of fulfilling their obligations under the settlement agreement and the guaranties. The final Costs cannot be reasonably estimated at this time, and accordingly, there can be no assurance that the resolution of this matter will not be material to the financial position, results of operations or cash flows of HHEM or the Company.
	In August 2006, H&H received a notice letter from the United States Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") formally naming H&H as a PRP at a superfund site in Massachusetts ("Superfund Site"). H&H is part of a group of thirteen other PRPs ("PRP Group") that work cooperatively regarding remediation of the Superfund Site. On June 13, 2008, H&H executed a participation agreement, consent decree and settlement trust that all of the other PRPs have signed as well. The PRP Group has both chemical and radiological PRPs. H&H is a chemical PRP, not a radiological PRP. The remediation of radiological contamination at the Superfund Site, under the direction of the Department of Energy, has been completed and a final status survey was submitted to the EPA in August 2012 and subsequently approved. The PRP Group mobilized onto the site in June 2013 and performed its required cleanup obligations between June 2013 and December 2013, at which time the PRP Group demobilized from the site. Estimates for the final remediation costs were calculated, and H&H's total assessed share for the remaining remediation was $2.2 million, which was paid in August 2013. The Company's financial guarantee for this matter was removed following payment receipt. There is still a possibility that some radiological contaminated soil may become the responsibility of the chemical PRPs, which could result in an additional, maximum assessment of approximately $0.2 million based on current estimates. Because the assessment is an estimate and dependent upon several factors, including administrative closure costs, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection ("MADEP") and EPA oversight costs, and continued collaboration and financial support from the town of Attleboro, the party responsible for the subsequent operations and maintenance activities at the Superfund Site, there can be no assurance that final resolution of this matter will not be material to the financial position, results of operations or cash flows of H&H or the Company.
	HHEM is continuing to comply with a 1987 consent order from the MADEP to investigate and remediate the soil and groundwater conditions at a commercial/industrial property in Massachusetts. On June 30, 2010, HHEM filed a Response Action Outcome ("RAO") report to close the site since HHEM's licensed site professional concluded that groundwater monitoring demonstrated that the groundwater conditions have stabilized or continue to improve at the site. On June 20, 2013, HHEM received the MADEP's Notice of Audit Findings and Notice of Noncompliance ("Notice"). HHEM and its consultant met with the MADEP on July 29, 2013 to resolve any differences identified in the Notice. As a result of that meeting and subsequent discussions, HHEM will conduct additional sampling, testing, site investigations and install additional off-site wells. Once the additional work is completed and assessed, HHEM will submit a follow-up response letter to the MADEP by June 30, 2014. The cost of this additional work is estimated at $0.2 million. Additional costs could result from these testing activities and final acceptance of the remediation plan by the MADEP, which cannot be reasonably estimated at this time.
	Other Litigation
	In the ordinary course of our business, we are subject to periodic lawsuits, investigations, claims and proceedings, including, but not limited to, contractual disputes, employment, environmental, health and safety matters, as well as claims associated with our historical acquisitions and divestitures. There is insurance coverage available for many of the foregoing actions. Although we cannot predict with certainty the ultimate resolution of lawsuits, investigations, claims and proceedings asserted against us, we do not believe any currently pending legal proceeding to which we are a party will have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition, cash flows, results of operations or liquidity.

Related_Party_Transactions

Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]	'
Related Party Transactions	'
	Related Party Transactions
	As of December 31, 2013, SPLP owned directly or indirectly through its subsidiaries 7,228,735 shares of the Company's common stock, representing approximately 56.0% of issued shares. The power to vote and dispose of the securities held by SPLP is controlled by SPH GP. Warren G. Lichtenstein, our Chairman of the Board of Directors, is also the Executive Chairman of SPH GP. Certain other affiliates of SPH GP hold positions with the Company, including Glen M. Kassan, as former Chief Executive Officer and present Vice Chairman, Jack Howard, as Executive Chairman and Principal Executive Officer, James F. McCabe, Jr., as Chief Financial Officer and Leonard J. McGill, as Chief Legal Officer.
	The Company was indebted to SPLP under H&H Group's Subordinated Notes until March 26, 2013, when it delivered an irrevocable notice of H&H Group's election to redeem all of its outstanding Subordinated Notes to the holders and irrevocably deposited funds for such redemption and interest payments in order to satisfy and discharge its obligations under the Indenture as more fully described in Note 11 - "Debt." In connection with this redemption, SPLP was entitled to receive proceeds of $25.0 million in connection with the redemption of $21.6 million face amount of notes held by SPLP. As of December 31, 2012, $0.6 million of accrued interest and $19.9 million of Subordinated Notes were owed to related parties.
	On October 14, 2011, in connection with a redemption of $25.0 million of Subordinated Notes from all holders on a pro-rata basis, H&H Group redeemed $12.5 million face amount of notes held by SPLP for a total amount of $13.2 million, which included the redemption price of 102.8% of the principal amount, accrued but unpaid payment-in-kind-interest, plus accrued and unpaid cash interest. Until October 14, 2013, the Subordinated Notes and Warrants which comprise the Units were not detachable and, accordingly, a pro-rata portion of Warrants were also redeemed.
	On January 1, 2012, the Company entered into a Management Services Agreement ("Management Services Agreement") with SP Corporate Services LLC ("SP Corporate"), which restructured its prior management services arrangements. SP Corporate is an affiliate of SPLP. Pursuant to the Management Services Agreement, SP Corporate provides the Company with certain executive and corporate services, including, without limitation, legal, tax, accounting, treasury, consulting, auditing, administrative, compliance, environmental health and safety, human resources, marketing, investor relations and other similar services rendered for the Company or its subsidiaries. The Management Services Agreement further provided that the Company pay SP Corporate a fixed annual fee of approximately $10.98 million, consisting of (a) $1.74 million in consideration of the executive services provided by SP Corporate under the Management Services Agreement and (b) $9.24 million in consideration of the corporate services provided by SP Corporate under the Management Services Agreement.
	Effective January 1, 2013, certain individuals employed by SP Corporate and their related expenses were transferred to the Company, and the fee paid under the Management Services Agreement was accordingly reduced by approximately $2.0 million. On March 27, 2013, the Company and SP Corporate entered into a First Amendment to the Management Services Agreement to modify the titles and designation of certain officers to be provided pursuant to the Management Services Agreement, and to adjust the fee thereunder, reflecting the aforementioned employee transfer and related change in the scope of services provided under the Management Services Agreement. The amended Management Services Agreement provides that the Company pay SP Corporate a fixed annual fee of approximately $8.89 million, effective January 1, 2013, consisting of (a) $1.74 million in consideration of the executive services provided by SP Corporate under the Management Services Agreement and (b) $7.15 million in consideration of the corporate services provided by SP Corporate under the Management Services Agreement.
	The fees payable under the Management Services Agreement are subject to an annual review and such adjustments as may be agreed upon by SP Corporate and the Company. The Management Services Agreement has a term of one year and automatically renews for successive one-year periods unless and until terminated in accordance with the terms set forth therein, which include, under certain circumstances, the payment by the Company of a termination fee to SP Corporate.
	In connection with the Management Services Agreement, the Company also entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement, dated January 1, 2012 ("Purchase Agreement"), pursuant to which the Company transferred to SP Corporate certain assets, which had previously been used, or held for use, by the Company and its subsidiaries to provide corporate services to the Company and its affiliates. In addition to certain fixed assets and contractual rights, approximately 37 employees of the Company and its subsidiaries were transferred to SP Corporate pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, including Mr. McCabe and certain other officers of the Company. All of the Company's officers who were transferred to SP Corporate pursuant to the Purchase Agreement continue to serve as officers of the Company pursuant to the Management Services Agreement. The Company's entry into the Management Services Agreement and the Purchase Agreement were approved by a special committee of the Board of Directors, composed entirely of independent directors.
	In January 2011, a special committee of the Board of Directors of the Company approved a management and services fee to be paid to SP Corporate in the amount of $1.95 million for services performed in 2010. Such amount was paid in 2011. Also, for services performed by SP Corporate in 2011, the Company incurred a management and services fee of $1.74 million. In connection with the approval of the management and services fee, in March 2011, the special committee of the Board also approved a sub-lease of office space from an affiliate of SPLP for an estimated aggregate occupancy charge of approximately $0.4 million per year. The 2011 management services fee was paid as consideration for management and advisory services with respect to operations, strategic planning, finance and accounting, acquisition and divestiture activities and other aspects of the Company's businesses, as well as Glen Kassan's services as Chief Executive Officer, John Quicke's services as a Vice President and other assistance from affiliates of SPLP.
	In 2011, the Company provided certain accounting services to SPLP. The Company billed SPLP $1.3 million on account of services provided in 2011.
	In connection with the Investment Agreement discussed in Note 10 - "Investments," ModusLink agreed to reimburse SPLP's reasonably documented out-of-pocket expenses associated with the agreement up to a maximum of $0.2 million, which was principally paid by and reimbursed to the Company.

Reportable_Segments

Reportable Segments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Reportable Segments	'
	Reportable Segments
	HNH is a diversified holding company whose strategic business units encompass the following segments: Joining Materials, Tubing, Building Materials, Arlon Electronic Materials and Kasco Blades and Route Repair Services. For a more complete description of the Company's segments, see "Item 1 - Business - Products and Product Mix."
	Management has determined that certain operating companies should be aggregated and presented within a single segment on the basis that such segments have similar economic characteristics and share other qualitative characteristics. Management reviews net sales, gross profit and operating income to evaluate segment performance. Operating income for the segments generally includes costs directly attributable to the segment and excludes other unallocated general corporate expenses. Interest expense, other income and expense, and income taxes are not presented by segment since they are excluded from the measure of segment profitability reviewed by the Company's management.
	The following tables present information about the Company's reportable segments for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011:
	Income Statement Data		Year Ended
	(in thousands)		December 31,
			2013			2012			2011
	Net sales:
	Joining Materials		$	195,187		$	174,621		$	190,607
	Tubing		91,002			80,849			76,676
	Building Materials		226,806			189,106			178,948
	Arlon		84,060			80,815			81,282
	Kasco		58,169			54,137			52,251
	Total net sales		$	655,224		$	579,528		$	579,764
	Segment operating income:
	Joining Materials (a)		$	16,624		$	23,942		$	24,747
	Tubing		17,434			14,258			13,958
	Building Materials		27,789			22,172			19,883
	Arlon (b)		10,769			11,594			8,348
	Kasco		4,496			4,431			4,227
	Total segment operating income		77,112			76,397			71,163
	Unallocated corporate expenses and non-operating units		(20,895		)	(23,387		)	(19,318		)
	Unallocated pension expense		(5,342		)	(3,313		)	(6,357		)
	Gain from asset dispositions		75			93			50
	Operating income		50,950			49,790			45,538
	Interest expense		(13,705		)	(16,719		)	(16,268		)
	Realized and unrealized gain on derivatives		1,195			2,582			418
	Other expense		(291		)	(439		)	(1,360		)
	Income from continuing operations before tax and equity investment		$	38,149		$	35,214		$	28,328
	a)	The results for the Joining Materials segment for 2012 and 2011 include gains of $0.6 million and $1.9 million, respectively, resulting from the liquidation of precious metal inventory valued at LIFO cost. No similar gain was recorded in 2013 due to an increase in ending inventory quantities.
	b)	Segment operating income of the Arlon segment for 2011 includes an asset impairment charge of $0.7 million to write-down vacant land located in Rancho Cucamonga, California to fair value.
	(in thousands)		2013			2012			2011
	Capital Expenditures
	Joining Materials		$	3,135		$	2,951		$	1,574
	Tubing		3,679			5,157			2,882
	Building Materials		3,424			4,776			1,049
	Arlon		4,482			5,113			5,055
	Kasco		1,339			2,236			1,422
	Corporate and other		167			62			64
			$	16,226		$	20,295		$	12,046
	(in thousands)		2013			2012			2011
	Depreciation and Amortization
	Joining Materials		$	2,682		$	1,110		$	1,373
	Tubing		2,399			2,250			2,201
	Building Materials		4,600			4,132			4,049
	Arlon		4,211			3,828			4,041
	Kasco		2,095			1,920			2,199
	Corporate and other		151			103			285
			$	16,138		$	13,343		$	14,148
	(in thousands)		2013			2012
	Total Assets
	Joining Materials		$	108,621		$	53,088
	Tubing		37,550			36,096
	Building Materials		134,320			121,392
	Arlon		71,046			66,255
	Kasco		23,612			25,215
	Corporate and other		133,923			178,204
	Discontinued operations		651			32,111
			$	509,723		$	512,361
	The following table presents revenue and long-lived asset information by geographic area as of and for the years ended December 31. Foreign revenue is based on the country in which the legal subsidiary is domiciled. Long-lived assets in 2013 and 2012 consist of property, plant and equipment, plus approximately $9.4 million and $8.2 million, respectively, of land and buildings from previously operating businesses, and other non-operating assets that are carried at the lower of cost or fair value and are included primarily in other non-current assets on the consolidated balance sheets. Neither net sales nor long-lived assets from any single foreign country was material to the consolidated financial statements of the Company.
	Geographic Information
	(in thousands)		Net Sales
			2013			2012			2011
United States		$	590,479		$	512,470		$	505,583
Foreign		64,745			67,058			74,181
		$	655,224		$	579,528		$	579,764
(in thousands)		Long-Lived Assets
		2013			2012
United States		$	77,065		$	66,537
Foreign		23,225			23,150
		$	100,290		$	89,687
Some of the Company's raw materials are available from a limited number of suppliers. Several raw materials used in Arlon's products are purchased from chemical companies, and their production is proprietary in nature. Other raw materials are purchased from a single approved vendor on a "sole source" basis. There can be no assurance that the production of these raw materials will be readily available. Although alternative sources could be developed in the future if necessary, the qualification procedure can take several months or longer and could therefore interrupt the production of our products and services if the primary raw material source became unexpectedly unavailable, which may result in increased cost or lost sales in future periods.

Parent_Company_Condensed_Finan

Parent Company Condensed Financial Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Parent Company Condensed Financial Information	'
	Parent Company Condensed Financial Information
	As discussed in Note 11 - "Debt," certain of the Company's subsidiaries have long-term debt outstanding which place restrictions on distributions of funds to HNH, subject to certain exceptions including required pension payments to the WHX Pension Plan. As these subsidiaries' restricted net assets represent a significant portion of the Company's consolidated net assets, the Company is presenting the following parent company condensed financial information. The HNH parent company condensed financial information is prepared on the same basis of accounting as the HNH consolidated financial statements, except that the HNH subsidiaries are accounted for under the equity method of accounting.
	HANDY & HARMAN LTD. (PARENT ONLY)
	Balance Sheets
	(in thousands, except par value)
		December 31,			December 31,
		2013			2012
	ASSETS
	Current Assets:
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	1,853		$	735
	Deferred income tax assets - current	4,062			8,231
	Prepaid and other current assets	92			105
	Total current assets	6,007			9,071
	Notes receivable from Bairnco	4,627			4,627
	Investment in associated company	33,983			17,229
	Deferred income tax assets	64,088			102,221
	Investments in and advances to subsidiaries, net	278,730			226,878
	Total assets	$	387,435		$	360,026
	LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
	Current Liabilities:
	Trade payables	$	61		$	99
	Accrued liabilities	718			648
	Total current liabilities	779			747
	Accrued interest - Handy & Harman	12,193			12,193
	Notes payable to Handy & Harman	98,188			80,083
	Accrued pension liability	142,403			215,075
	Total liabilities	253,563			308,098
	Commitments and Contingencies
	Stockholders' Equity:
	Common stock - $.01 par value; authorized 180,000 shares;
	issued 13,444 and 13,140 shares, respectively	134			131
	Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(181,931		)	(226,168		)
	Additional paid-in capital	565,441			559,970
	Treasury stock, at cost - 458 and 0 shares, respectively	(9,796		)	—
	Accumulated deficit	(239,976		)	(282,005		)
	Total stockholders' equity	133,872			51,928
	Liabilities and stockholders' equity	$	387,435		$	360,026
	HANDY & HARMAN LTD. (PARENT ONLY)
	Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income (Loss)
	(in thousands)
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Equity in income of subsidiaries, net of tax	$	44,275		$	35,498		$	40,044
	Selling, general and administrative expenses	(7,790		)	(7,720		)	(5,883		)
	Pension expense	(5,206		)	(3,195		)	(6,316		)
	Other:
	Interest expense - Handy & Handy notes payable	—			(4,087		)	(2,889		)
	Interest income - Bairnco notes receivable	—			560			491
	Other income (expense)	—			15			(3		)
	Income before tax and equity investment	31,279			21,071			25,444
	Tax benefit	4,744			5,410			113,331
	Gain from associated company, net of tax	6,006			—			—
	Net income	42,029			26,481			138,775
	Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
	Changes in pension liability and post-retirement benefit obligations	68,328			(43,702		)	(82,805		)
	Tax effect of changes in pension liability and post-retirement benefit obligations	(25,653		)	14,455			27,211
	Change in market value of securities	7,113			(14,948		)	7,835
	Tax effect of change in market value of securities	(3,041		)	6,054			(3,014		)
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	(2,510		)	362			(1,751		)
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	44,237			(37,779		)	(52,524		)
	Comprehensive income (loss)	$	86,266		$	(11,298	)	$	86,251
	HANDY & HARMAN LTD. (PARENT ONLY)
	Statements of Cash Flows
(in thousands)
	Year ended December 31,
	2013			2012			2011
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$	42,029		$	26,481		$	138,775
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
used in operating activities:
Equity in income of subsidiaries, net of tax	(44,275		)	(35,498		)	(40,044		)
Payment in kind interest expense - Handy & Harman	—			4,087			2,889
Payment in kind interest income - Bairnco	—			(560		)	(491		)
Non-cash stock-based compensation	4,860			4,476			2,837
Non-cash gain from associated company	(6,006		)	—			—
Deferred income taxes	(5,945		)	(5,410		)	(113,490		)
Change in operating assets and liabilities:
Advances from affiliates	—			—			(424		)
Pension payments - WHX Pension Plan	(13,106		)	(15,919		)	(15,235		)
Pension expense	5,206			3,195			6,316
Other current assets and liabilities	45			(1,047		)	(1,330		)
Net cash used in operating activities	(17,192		)	(20,195		)	(20,197		)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Investments in marketable securities	—			(6,321		)	(18,021		)
Dividends from subsidiaries	10,000			6,321			18,021
Net cash provided by investing activities	10,000			—			—
Cash flows from financing activities:
Notes payable - Handy & Harman	18,106			19,419			18,735
Purchases of treasury stock	(9,796		)	—			—
Net cash provided by financing activities	8,310			19,419			18,735
Net change for the year	1,118			(776		)	(1,462		)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	735			1,511			2,973
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$	1,853		$	735		$	1,511

Unaudited_Quarterly_Results

Unaudited Quarterly Results	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Unaudited Quarterly Results	'
	Unaudited Quarterly Results
	Unaudited quarterly financial results during the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:
	(in thousands, except per share amounts)	Fiscal 2013 Quarter Ended (Unaudited)
		March 31,			June 30,		September 30,		December 31,
	Net sales	$	148,957		$	182,084	$	171,874	$	152,309
	Operating income	$	11,201		$	17,964	$	16,249	$	5,536
	Income from continuing operations before tax and equity investment	$	2,180		$	17,687	$	14,004	$	4,278
	Net income (loss) from discontinued operations	$	9,541		$	1,661	$	2,904	$	(204	)
	Net income	$	8,017		$	11,872	$	9,643	$	12,497
	Comprehensive income	$	11,431		$	12,691	$	7,694	$	54,450
	Basic and diluted income per share of common stock
	(Loss) income from continuing operations, net of tax, per share	$	(0.11	)	$	0.76	$	0.51	$	0.96
	Discontinued operations, net of tax, per share	$	0.72		$	0.12	$	0.22	$	(0.01	)
	Net income per share	$	0.61		$	0.88	$	0.73	$	0.95
	(in thousands, except per share amounts)	Fiscal 2012 Quarter Ended (Unaudited)
		March 31,			June 30,		September 30,		December 31,
	Net sales	$	144,386		$	164,430	$	144,628	$	126,084
	Operating income	$	10,482		$	19,397	$	12,855	$	7,056
	Income from continuing operations before tax and equity investment	$	7,519		$	16,546	$	7,331	$	3,818
	Net income from discontinued operations	$	585		$	1,230	$	1,205	$	1,312
	Net income	$	5,096		$	10,952	$	5,930	$	4,503
	Comprehensive income (loss)	$	4,945		$	1,617	$	9,551	$	(27,411	)
	Basic and diluted income per share of common stock
	Income from continuing operations, net of tax, per share	$	0.35		$	0.74	$	0.36	$	0.24
	Discontinued operations, net of tax, per share	$	0.05		$	0.09	$	0.09	$	0.1
	Net income per share	$	0.4		$	0.83	$	0.45	$	0.34
	Other comprehensive income (loss) of $41.8 million and $(29.2) million, net of tax, were recorded in the fourth quarter of 2013 and 2012, respectively, principally from unrealized actuarial gains (losses) associated with the Company's defined benefit pension plans.

Summary_of_Accounting_Policies1

Summary of Accounting Policies Summary of Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Basis of Presentation	'
	Basis of Presentation
	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of HNH and its subsidiaries. All material intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated.
Use of Estimates	'
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("U.S. GAAP") requires the Company to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an on-going basis, the Company evaluates its estimates, including those related to bad debts, inventories, long-lived assets, intangibles, accrued expenses, income taxes, pensions and other post-retirement benefits, and contingencies and litigation. Estimates are based on historical experience, future cash flows and various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
Discontinued Operations	'
	Discontinued Operations
	The results of operations for businesses that have been disposed of or classified as held-for-sale are segregated from the results of the Company's continuing operations and classified as discontinued operations for each period presented in the Company's consolidated income statement. Similarly, the assets and liabilities of such businesses are reclassified from continuing operations and presented as discontinued operations for each period presented in the Company's consolidated balance sheet. Businesses are reported as discontinued operations when the Company no longer has continuing involvement in their operations and no longer has significant continuing cash flows from their operation.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	'
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand and on deposit and highly liquid debt instruments with original maturities of three months or less.
	The Company's credit risk arising from cash deposits held in U.S. banks in excess of insured amounts is reduced given that cash balances in U.S. banks are generally utilized to pay down the Company's revolving credit loans
Revenue Recognition	'
	Revenue Recognition
	Revenues are recognized when title and risk of loss has passed to the customer. This condition is normally met when product has been shipped or the service performed. An allowance is provided for estimated returns and discounts based on experience. Cash received by the Company from customers prior to shipment of goods, or otherwise not yet earned, is recorded as deferred revenue. Rental revenues are derived from the rental of certain equipment to the food industry where customers prepay for the rental period, usually three to six month periods. For prepaid rental contracts, sales revenue is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the contract. Service revenues consist of repair and maintenance work performed on equipment used at mass merchants, supermarkets and restaurants.
	The Company experiences a certain degree of sales returns that varies over time, but is able to make a reasonable estimation of expected sales returns based upon history. The Company records all shipping and handling fees billed to customers as revenue, and related costs are charged principally to cost of goods sold, when incurred. The Company has also entered into agreements with certain customers under which the Company has agreed to pay rebates to such customers. These programs are typically structured to incentivize the customers to increase their annual purchases from the Company. The rebates are usually calculated as a percentage of the purchase amount, and such percentages may increase as the customer’s level of purchases rise. Rebates are recorded as a reduction of net sales in the consolidated income statement and are accounted for on an accrual basis. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, accrued rebates payable totaled $5.4 million and $4.5 million, respectively, and are included in accrued liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet. In limited circumstances, the Company is required to collect and remit sales tax on certain of its sales. The Company accounts for sales taxes on a net basis, and such sales taxes are not included in net sales in the consolidated income statement.
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand and on deposit and highly liquid debt instruments with original maturities of three months or less. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company had cash held in foreign banks of $6.5 million and $8.0 million, respectively. The Company's credit risk arising from cash deposits held in U.S. banks in excess of insured amounts is reduced given that cash balances in U.S. banks are generally utilized to pay down the Company's revolving credit loans (see Note 11 - "Debt"). At December 31, 2013, the Company held cash and cash equivalents which exceeded federally-insured limits by approximately $2.2 million.
Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	'
	Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
	The Company extends credit to customers based on its evaluation of the customer's financial condition. The Company does not require that any collateral be provided by its customers. The Company has established an allowance for accounts that are expected to be uncollectible in the future. This estimated allowance is based primarily on management's evaluation of the financial condition of the customer and historical experience. The Company monitors its accounts receivable and charges to expense an amount equal to its estimate of expected credit losses. Accounts that are outstanding longer than contractual payment terms are considered past due. The Company considers a number of factors in determining its estimates, including the length of time its trade receivables are past due, the Company's previous loss history and the customer's current ability to pay its obligation. Accounts receivable balances are charged off against the allowance when it is determined that the receivable will not be recovered, and payments subsequently received on such receivables are credited to recovery of accounts written-off. The Company does not charge interest on past due receivables.
	The Company believes that the credit risk with respect to trade accounts receivable is limited due to the Company's credit evaluation process, the allowance for doubtful accounts that has been established and the diversified nature of its customer base.
Inventories	'
	Inventories
	Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined by the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method for certain precious metal inventory held in the United States. Non-precious metal inventories and remaining precious metal inventory are stated at the lower of cost (determined by the first-in, first-out method or average cost method) or market. For precious metal inventory, no segregation among raw materials, work in process and finished products is practicable.
	Non-precious metal inventories are evaluated for estimated excess and obsolescence based upon assumptions about future demand and market conditions and are adjusted accordingly. If actual market conditions are less favorable than those projected, write-downs may be required.
Derivatives and Risks	'
	Derivatives and Risks
	Precious Metal and Commodity Risk
	H&H's precious metal and commodity inventories are subject to market price fluctuations. H&H enters into commodity futures and forward contracts to mitigate the impact of price fluctuations on its precious and certain non-precious metal inventories that are not subject to fixed price contracts. The Company's hedging strategy is designed to protect it against normal volatility; therefore, abnormal price increases in these commodities or markets could negatively impact H&H's earnings. H&H does not enter into derivatives or other financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes. H&H accounts for these contracts as either fair value hedges or economic hedges under the guidance in Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 815, Derivatives and Hedging.
	Fair Value Hedges. The fair values of these derivatives are recognized as derivative assets and liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet. The net change in fair value of the derivative assets and liabilities and the change in the fair value of the underlying hedged inventory are recognized in the consolidated income statement, and such amounts principally offset each other due to the effectiveness of the hedges. The fair value hedges are associated primarily with the Company's precious metal inventory carried at fair value.
	Economic Hedges. As these derivatives are not designated as accounting hedges under ASC 815, they are accounted for as derivatives with no hedge designation. The derivatives are marked to market and both realized and unrealized gains and losses are recorded in current period earnings in the consolidated income statement. The economic hedges are associated primarily with the Company's precious metal inventory valued using the LIFO method.
	Interest Rate Risk
	HNH enters into interest rate swap agreements in order to economically hedge a portion of its debt, which is subject to variable interest rates. As these derivatives are not designated as accounting hedges under U.S. GAAP, they are accounted for as derivatives with no hedge designation. The Company records the expense (or gain) both from the mark-to-market adjustments and net settlements in interest expense in the consolidated income statement as the hedges are intended to offset interest rate movements.
	Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk
	H&H and Bairnco are subject to the risk of price fluctuations related to anticipated revenues and operating costs, firm commitments for capital expenditures and existing assets or liabilities denominated in currencies other than U.S. dollars. H&H and Bairnco have not generally used derivative instruments to manage this risk.
Property, Plant and Equipment	'
	Property, Plant and Equipment
	Property, plant and equipment is recorded at historical cost. Depreciation of property, plant and equipment is provided principally on the straight line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which range as follows: machinery and equipment 3 – 15 years and buildings and improvements 10 – 30 years. Interest cost is capitalized for qualifying assets during the asset's acquisition period. Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense, and renewals and betterments are capitalized. Gain or loss on dispositions is credited or charged to operating income.
Goodwill, Intangibles and Long-Lived Assets	'
	Goodwill, Other Intangibles and Long-Lived Assets
	Goodwill represents the difference between the purchase price and the fair value of net assets acquired in a business combination. Goodwill is reviewed annually for impairment in accordance with U.S. GAAP as of the end of the fourth quarter. The Company uses judgment in assessing whether assets may have become impaired between annual impairment tests. Circumstances that could trigger an interim impairment test include, but are not limited to: the occurrence of a significant change in circumstances, such as continuing adverse business conditions or legal factors; an adverse action or assessment by a regulator; unanticipated competition; loss of key personnel; the likelihood that a reporting unit or significant portion of a reporting unit will be sold or otherwise disposed; or results of testing for recoverability of a significant asset group within a reporting unit.
	The testing of goodwill for impairment is performed at a level referred to as a reporting unit. Goodwill is allocated to each reporting unit based on the goodwill valued in connection with each business combination consummated within each reporting unit. Five reporting units of the Company have goodwill assigned to them.
	Goodwill impairment testing consists of a two-step process. Step 1 of the impairment test involves comparing the fair values of the applicable reporting units with their carrying values, including goodwill. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds the reporting unit's fair value, Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test is performed to determine the amount of impairment loss. Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test involves comparing the implied fair value of the affected reporting unit's goodwill against the carrying value of that goodwill. In performing the first step of the impairment test, the Company also reconciles the aggregate estimated fair value of its reporting units to its enterprise value, which includes a control premium.
	Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2011-08 provides an entity the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events or circumstances leads to a determination that it is more likely than not (more than 50%) that the estimated fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If an entity elects to perform a qualitative assessment and determines that an impairment is more likely than not, the entity is then required to perform the two-step quantitative impairment test discussed above; otherwise no further analysis is required. An entity also may elect not to perform the qualitative assessment and, instead, proceed directly to the two-step quantitative impairment test. The ultimate outcome of the goodwill impairment review for a reporting unit should be the same whether an entity chooses to perform the qualitative assessment or proceeds directly to the two-step quantitative impairment test.
	Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives. The Company also estimates the depreciable lives of property, plant and equipment, and reviews the assets for impairment if events, or changes in circumstances, indicate that it may not recover the carrying amount of an asset. Long-lived assets consisting of land and buildings used in previously operating businesses are carried at the lower of cost or fair value and are included primarily in other non-current assets on the consolidated balance sheet. A reduction in the carrying value of such long-lived assets used in previously operating businesses is recorded as an asset impairment charge in the consolidated income statement.
Investments	'
	Investments
	Investments are accounted for using the equity method of accounting if the investment provides the Company the ability to exercise significant influence, but not control, over an investee. Significant influence is generally deemed to exist if the Company has an ownership interest in the voting stock of the investee of between 20% and 50%, although other factors, such as representation on the investee's Board of Directors, or additional shares held by affiliates, are considered in determining whether the equity method of accounting is appropriate.
	Investments in equity securities that have readily determinable fair values that are classified as available-for-sale are measured at fair value on the consolidated balance sheet. Unrealized holding gains and losses on available-for-sale securities (including those classified as current assets) are excluded from earnings and reported in other comprehensive income (loss) until realized. Dividend and interest income, if any, are included in earnings. The Company uses the specific identification method to determine the cost of a security sold and the amount of realized gain or loss associated with any sales. The Company assesses whether an available-for-sale investment is impaired in each quarterly reporting period. If it is determined that an impairment is other than temporary, then an impairment loss is recognized in earnings equal to the difference between the investment's cost and its fair value at the balance sheet date of the reporting period for which the assessment is made. The measurement of an impairment does not include partial recoveries after the balance sheet date if they occur.
Stock-based Compensation	'
	Stock-Based Compensation
	The Company accounts for stock options and restricted stock granted to employees, directors and service providers as compensation expense, which is recognized in exchange for the services received. The compensation expense is based on the fair value of the equity instruments on the grant-date and is recognized as an expense over the service period of the recipients.
Income Taxes	'
	Income Taxes
	Income taxes currently payable or tax refunds receivable are recorded on a net basis and included in accrued liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet. Deferred income taxes reflect the tax effect of net operating loss carryforwards ("NOLs"), capital loss or tax credit carryforwards and the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amount of assets and liabilities for financial reporting and income tax purposes, as determined under enacted tax laws and rates. Valuation allowances are established if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not that some portion or the entire deferred income tax asset will not be realized. The financial effect of changes in tax laws or rates is accounted for in the period of enactment.
Earnings Per Share	'
	Earnings Per Share
	Basic earnings per share is based on the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during each year. Diluted earnings per share gives effect to dilutive potential common shares outstanding during each year.
Foreign Currency Translations	'
	Foreign Currency Translation
	Assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries are translated at current exchange rates and related revenues and expenses are translated at average rates of exchange in effect during the year. Resulting cumulative translation adjustments are recorded as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).
Advertising Costs	'
	Advertising Costs
	Advertising costs consist of sales promotion literature, samples, cost of trade shows, and general advertising costs, and are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the consolidated income statement. Advertising, promotion and trade show costs totaled approximately $2.8 million in 2013, $2.4 million in 2012 and $2.2 million in 2011.
Legal Contingencies	'
	Legal Contingencies
	The Company provides for legal contingencies when the liability is probable and the amount of the associated costs is reasonably estimable. The Company regularly monitors the progress of legal contingencies and revises the amounts recorded in the period in which a change in estimate occurs.
Environmental Liabilities	'
	Environmental Liabilities
	The Company accrues for losses associated with environmental remediation obligations when such losses are probable and reasonably estimable. Accruals for estimated losses from environmental remediation obligations generally are recognized no later than completion of the remedial feasibility study. Such accruals are adjusted as further information develops or circumstances change. Costs of future expenditures for environmental remediation obligations are not discounted to their present value. Recoveries of environmental remediation costs from other parties are recorded as assets when their receipt is deemed probable.
Reclassification	'
	Reclassifications
	Certain amounts for prior years have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. In particular, the assets, liabilities and income or loss of discontinued operations (see Note 5 - "Discontinued Operations") have been reclassified into separate lines on the consolidated financial statements to segregate them from continuing operations.

New_or_Recently_Adopted_Accoun1

New or Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
New or Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements	'
	In February 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued ASU 2013-02 that requires entities to disclose the following additional information about items reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI"):
	•	Changes in AOCI balances by component, with separate presentation of (1) reclassification adjustments and (2) current period other comprehensive income.
	•	Significant items reclassified out of AOCI by component either on the face of the income statement or as a separate footnote to the financial statements.
	The Company adopted the ASU in the first quarter of 2013, and such adoption did not have an effect on the Company's consolidated financial position or results of operations.
	In March 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-05, which indicates that the entire amount of a cumulative translation adjustment related to an entity's investment in a foreign entity should be released when there has been a:
	•	Sale of a subsidiary or group of net assets within a foreign entity and the sale represents the substantially complete liquidation of the investment in the foreign entity.
	•	Loss of a controlling financial interest in an investment in a foreign entity (i.e. the foreign entity is deconsolidated).
	•	Step acquisition for a foreign entity (i.e. when an entity has changed from applying the equity method for an investment in a foreign entity to consolidating the foreign entity).
	The ASU is effective for the Company's 2014 fiscal year and is to be applied prospectively from the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption.

Acquisitions_Tables

Acquisitions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Business Combinations [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Purchase Price Allocation	'
	The following table summarizes the amounts of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date on a preliminary basis (in thousands):
	Trade and other receivables	$	9,491
	Inventories	17,864
	Prepaid and other current assets	81
	Property, plant and equipment	5,549
	Goodwill	14,767
	Other intangibles	13,657
	Total assets acquired	61,409
	Trade payables	(1,167		)
	Accrued liabilities	(495		)
	Net assets acquired	$	59,747
Pro Forma Information	'
	Unaudited pro forma net sales and net income of the combined entity had the acquisition date been January 1, 2012 are as follows:
			Year Ended
			December 31,
	(in thousands, except per share)		2013		2012
	Net sales		$	680,374	$	662,072
	Net income		$	43,411	$	28,720
	Net income per share		$	3.28	$	2.2
	Weighted-average shares outstanding		13,251		13,032

Discontinued_Operations_Tables

Discontinued Operations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations	'
	The assets and liabilities of discontinued operations have been segregated in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2013 and 2012.
		December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013			2012
	Assets of Discontinued Operations:
	Trade and other receivables, net	$	—		$	6,372
	Inventories, net	—			7,097
	Prepaid and other current assets	587			1,438
	Property, plant and equipment, net	—			7,934
	Goodwill	—			9,156
	Other non-current assets	64			114
		$	651		$	32,111
	Liabilities of Discontinued Operations	$	151		$	9,160
	The net income from discontinued operations includes the following:
		Year Ended December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013			2012			2011
	Net sales	$	20,094		$	83,228		$	102,033
	Operating (loss) income	(1,559		)	6,999			2,743
	Interest and other expense	(47		)	(91		)	(192		)
	Income tax benefit (expense)	609			(2,597		)	(873		)
	(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax	(997		)	4,311			1,678
	Gain on disposal of assets	27,573			21			6,041
	Income tax expense	(12,674		)	—			(3,360		)
	Net income from discontinued operations	$	13,902		$	4,332		$	4,359

Inventories_Tables

Inventories (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Inventory, Current	'
	Inventories at December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 were comprised of:
		December 31,			December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013			2012
	Finished products	$	21,887		$	19,596
	In-process	9,840			8,344
	Raw materials	15,246			14,130
	Fine and fabricated precious metals in various stages of completion	19,802			9,599
		66,775			51,669
	LIFO reserve	(1,025		)	(4,139		)
		$	65,750		$	47,530
Inventory Supplemental Disclosure	'
	As of December 31, 2013, H&H's customer metal consisted of 247,103 ounces of silver, 576 ounces of gold and 1,392 ounces of palladium.
	Supplemental inventory information:	December 31,			December 31,
	(in thousands, except per ounce)	2013			2012
	Precious metals stated at LIFO cost	$	5,090		$	5,460
	Precious metals stated under non-LIFO cost methods, primarily at fair value	$	13,687		$	—
	Market value per ounce:
	Silver	$	19.49		$	30.2
	Gold	$	1,201.50		$	1,675.40
	Palladium	$	711		$	702.85

Property_Plant_and_Equipment_T

Property, Plant and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net	'
		December 31,		December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013		2012
	Land	$	9,177	$	7,366
	Buildings, machinery and equipment	169,411		155,253
	Construction in progress	7,357		7,513
		185,945		170,132
	Accumulated depreciation	94,748		88,403
		$	91,197	$	81,729

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangibles1

Goodwill and Other Intangibles (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Reconciliation of the change in the carrying value of goodwill	'
	The changes in the net carrying amount of goodwill by reportable segment for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:
	(in thousands)
	Segment		Balance at January 1, 2013				Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments			Additions			Adjustments				Balance at				Accumulated
																	31-Dec-13				Impairment Losses
	Joining Materials		$	1,494			$	14		$	14,767		$	—			$	16,275			$	—
	Tubing		1,895				—			—			—				1,895				—
	Building Materials		47,096				—			3,402			(454		)		50,044				—
	Arlon		9,298				—			—			—				9,298				(1,140		)
			$	59,783			$	14		$	18,169		$	(454	)		$	77,512			$	(1,140	)
	The $14.8 million addition to goodwill within the Joining Materials segment was due to the Company's acquisition of Wolverine Joining, and the $3.4 million addition within the Building Materials segment was due to the Company's acquisition of PAM. The $0.5 million adjustment to goodwill recorded during the year ended December 31, 2013 within the Building Materials segment is related to final purchase price allocation adjustments, including a final working capital adjustment, associated with the prior year acquisition of Hickman. For additional information, see Note 4 - "Acquisitions."
	(in thousands)
	Segment		Balance at January 1, 2012				Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments			Additions			Balance at December 31, 2012				Accumulated Impairment Losses
	Joining Materials		$	1,489			$	5		$	—		$	1,494			$	—
	Tubing		1,895				—			—			1,895				—
	Building Materials		43,829				—			3,267			47,096				—
	Arlon		9,298				—			—			9,298				(1,140		)
			$	56,511			$	5		$	3,267		$	59,783			$	(1,140	)
Summary of Other Intangible Assets	'
	Other intangible assets as of December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 consisted of:
	(in thousands)	December 31, 2013									December 31, 2012									Weighted-Average Amortization Life (in Years)
		Cost			Accumulated Amortization			Net			Cost		Accumulated Amortization			Net
	Customer relationships	$	52,565		$	(16,259	)	$	36,306		$	38,825	$	(13,232	)	$	25,593			16.5
	Trademarks, trade names and brand names	10,231			(2,116		)	8,115			5,048		(1,634		)	3,414				17.5
	Patents and patent applications	5,103			(1,870		)	3,233			4,789		(1,523		)	3,266				15.5
	Non-compete agreements	906			(839		)	67			906		(809		)	97				7.1
	Other	1,808			(1,193		)	615			1,762		(914		)	848				6.1
	Total	$	70,613		$	(22,277	)	$	48,336		$	51,330	$	(18,112	)	$	33,218
Summary of Estimated Amortization Expense	'
	The increase in intangible assets and related amortization expense during 2013 was principally due to the Company's acquisition of Wolverine Joining and PAM discussed in Note 4 - "Acquisitions." The estimated amortization expense for each of the five succeeding years and thereafter is as follows:
	(in thousands)		Customer Relationships				Trademarks, Trade Names and Brand Names			Patents and Patent Applications			Non-Compete Agreements				Other				Total
	2014		$	3,421			$	594		$	356		$	30			$	290			$	4,691
	2015		3,421				594			342			30				194				4,581
	2016		3,421				594			270			7				85				4,377
	2017		3,414				594			270			—				37				4,315
	2018		3,378				594			270			—				9				4,251
	Thereafter		19,251				5,145			1,725			—				—				26,121
			$	36,306			$	8,115		$	3,233		$	67			$	615			$	48,336
	These balances are subject to adjustment during the finalization of the purchase price allocations for the Wolverine Joining and PAM acquisitions.

Investments_Tables

Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Equity Method Investments	'
	Summarized unaudited information as to assets, liabilities and results of operations of ModusLink for the quarter ended October 31, 2013, its most recently completed fiscal quarter, as well as for the nine months ended October 31, 2013, the nearest practicable period corresponding to the period the Company has accounted for its investment in ModusLink under the equity method of accounting, and the comparable prior periods, are as follows:
		October 31,		July 31,
	(in thousands)	2013		2013
	Current assets	$	319,994	$	291,086
	Non-current assets	$	50,235	$	52,610
	Current liabilities	$	199,324	$	176,431
	Non-current liabilities	$	10,706	$	10,360
	Stockholders' equity	$	160,199	$	156,905
		Three Months Ended					Nine Months Ended
		October 31,					October 31,
	(in thousands)	2013		2012			2013			2012
	Net revenue	$	191,415	$	197,051		$	545,432		$	543,733
	Gross profit	$	21,995	$	18,624		$	57,463		$	46,002
	Income (loss) from continuing operations	$	538	$	(9,831	)	$	(16,544	)	$	(27,641	)
	Net income (loss)	$	617	$	(10,660	)	$	(16,530	)	$	(37,037	)

Debt_Tables

Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Debt	'
	Debt at December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 was as follows:
	(in thousands)		December 31,			December 31,
			2013			2012
	Short-term debt
	Foreign		$	304		$	778
	Long-term debt
	Senior Term Loan		116,000			115,000
	Revolving Facility		30,950			—
	Subordinated Notes, net of unamortized discount		—			9,440
	Other H&H debt - domestic		8,279			8,597
	Foreign loan facilities		1,658			4,713
	Sub total		156,887			137,750
	Less portion due within one year		12,818			8,943
	Long-term debt		144,069			128,807
	Long-term debt - related party
	Subordinated Notes, net of unamortized discount		—			19,916
	Total long-term debt		144,069			148,723
	Total debt		$	157,191		$	158,444
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt	'
	Long-term debt at December 31, 2013 matures in each of the next five years as follows:
	(in thousands)	Total			2014			2015		2016		2017		2018		Thereafter
	Long-term debt (a)	$	156,887		$	12,818		$	21,969	$	15,691	$	106,409	$	—	$	—
	a)	Assumes repayment of the Revolving Facility on its contractual maturity date.

Derivative_Instruments_Tables

Derivative Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Outstanding Forward and Future Contracts	'
	As of December 31, 2013, the Company had the following outstanding futures contracts with settlement dates ranging from February 2014 to March 2014. There were no forward contracts outstanding at December 31, 2013.
						Notional Value
	Commodity	Amount				($ in millions)
	Silver	650,000		ounces		$	12.6
	Gold	1,000		ounces		$	1.2
	Copper	350,000		pounds		$	1.2
	Tin	40		metric tons		$	0.9
Effect of Derivative Instruments on the Consolidated Income Statements	'
	Effect of Derivative Instruments in the Consolidated Income Statements - Income/(Expense)
	(in thousands)		Year Ended
			December 31,
	Derivative	Income Statement Line	2013				2012		2011
	Commodity contracts	Cost of goods sold	$	2,528			$	—	$	—
		Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments	2,528				—		—
	Commodity contracts	Realized and unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives	1,988				522		(1,236		)
	Interest rate swap agreements	Interest expense	(328		)		—		—
	Derivative features of Subordinated Notes	Realized and unrealized (loss) gain on derivatives	(793		)		2,060		1,654
		Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments	867				2,582		418
		Total derivatives	$	3,395			$	2,582	$	418
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments in the Consolidated Balance Sheets	'
	Fair Value of Derivative Instruments on the Consolidated Balance Sheets - Asset/(Liability)
	(in thousands)		December 31,				December 31,
	Derivative	Balance Sheet Location	2013				2012
	Commodity contracts	Prepaid and other current assets	$	1,778			$	—
		Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments	1,778				—
	Commodity contracts	(Accrued liabilities)/Prepaid and other current assets	(158		)		100
	Interest rate swap agreements	Other liabilities	(214		)		—
	Derivative features of Subordinated Notes	Long-term debt and long-term debt - related party	—				793
		Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments	(372		)		893
		Total derivatives	$	1,406			$	893

Pensions_and_Other_PostRetirem1

Pensions and Other Post-Retirement Benefits (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Defined Benefit Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs	'
			Pension Benefits											Other Post-Retirement Benefits
	(in thousands)		2013				2012				2011			2013				2012			2011
	Service cost		$	—			$	—			$	218		$	—			$	—		$	—
	Interest cost		18,594				21,651				22,553			98				163			171
	Expected return on plan assets		(23,964		)		(27,005		)		(27,249		)	—				—			—
	Amortization of prior service cost		32				44				63			—				—			—
	Amortization of actuarial loss		10,680				8,623				10,772			8				86			41
	Total		$	5,342			$	3,313			$	6,357		$	106			$	249		$	212
Schedule of Assumptions Used	'
	The weighted-average assumptions used in the valuations at December 31 were as follows:
			Pension Benefits						Other Post-Retirement Benefits
			2013			2012			2013			2012
	Discount rates:
	WHX Pension Plan		4.4	%		3.5	%		N/A			N/A
	Bear Plan		4.95	%		4	%		N/A			N/A
	Other post-retirement benefit plans		N/A			N/A			4.1	%		3.65	%
	Rate of compensation increase		N/A			N/A			N/A			N/A
	Health care cost trend rate - initial		N/A			N/A			7.25	%		7.25	%
	Health care cost trend rate - ultimate		N/A			N/A			5	%		5	%
	Year ultimate reached		N/A			N/A			2022			2022
	Actuarial assumptions used to develop the components of defined benefit pension expense and other post-retirement benefit expense were as follows:
			Pension Benefits									Other Post-Retirement Benefits
			2013			2012			2011			2013		2012			2011
	Discount rates:
	WHX Pension Plan		3.5	%		4.15	%		4.95	%		N/A		N/A			N/A
	Other post-retirement benefit plans		N/A			N/A			N/A			3.65	%	4.2	%		5.1	%
	Bear Plan		4	%		4.55	%		5.5	%		N/A		N/A			N/A
	Expected return on assets		7.5	%		8	%		8	%		N/A		N/A			N/A
	Rate of compensation increase		N/A			N/A			N/A			N/A		N/A			N/A
	Health care cost trend rate - initial		N/A			N/A			N/A			7.25	%	7.5	%		7.5	%
	Health care cost trend rate - ultimate		N/A			N/A			N/A			5	%	5	%		5	%
	Year ultimate reached		N/A			N/A			N/A			2022		2022			2016
Schedule of Net Funded Status	'
	Summarized below is a reconciliation of the funded status for the Company's qualified defined benefit pension plans and post-retirement benefit plans:
			Pension Benefits								Other Post-Retirement Benefits
	(in thousands)		2013				2012				2013			2012
	Change in benefit obligation:
	Benefit obligation at January 1		$	547,456			$	532,619			$	4,208		$	4,092
	Service cost		—				—				—			—
	Interest cost		18,594				21,651				98			163
	Actuarial (gain) loss		(34,739		)		36,227				(1,403		)	150
	Participant contributions		—				—				4			9
	Plan change		—				—				(1,506		)	—
	Benefits paid		(34,495		)		(36,058		)		(317		)	(206		)
	Insurance contract termination		—				(6,983		)		—			—
	Transfer from Canfield Salaried SEPP		724				—				—			—
	Benefit obligation at December 31		$	497,540			$	547,456			$	1,084		$	4,208
	Change in plan assets:
	Fair value of plan assets at January 1		$	330,471			$	346,408			$	—		$	—
	Actual returns on plan assets		43,924				10,924				—			—
	Participant contributions		—				—				4			9
	Benefits paid		(34,495		)		(36,058		)		(317		)	(206		)
	Company contributions		13,349				16,180				313			197
	Insurance contract termination		—				(6,983		)		—			—
	Transfer from Canfield Salaried SEPP		724				—				—			—
	Fair value of plan assets at December 31		353,973				330,471				—			—
	Funded status		$	(143,567	)		$	(216,985	)		$	(1,084	)	$	(4,208	)
	Accumulated benefit obligation ("ABO") for qualified defined benefit plans:
	ABO at January 1		$	547,456			$	532,619			$	4,208		$	4,092
	ABO at December 31		$	497,540			$	547,456			$	1,084		$	4,208
	Amounts recognized on the consolidated balance sheet:
	Current liability		$	—			$	—			$	(111	)	$	(211	)
	Noncurrent liability		(143,567		)		(216,985		)		(973		)	(3,997		)
	Total		$	(143,567	)		$	(216,985	)		$	(1,084	)	$	(4,208	)
Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	'
	Other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in comprehensive income (loss) are as follows:
			Pension Benefits											Other Post-Retirement Benefits
	(in thousands)		2013				2012				2011			2013				2012			2011
	Current year actuarial gain (loss)		$	54,698			$	(52,305	)		$	(93,031	)	$	1,403			$	(150	)	$	(649	)
	Amortization of actuarial loss		10,680				8,623				10,772			8				86			41
	Current year prior service credit		—				—				—			1,506				—			—
	Amortization of prior service cost		32				44				62			—				—			—
	Total recognized in comprehensive income (loss)		$	65,410			$	(43,638	)		$	(82,197	)	$	2,917			$	(64	)	$	(608	)
	Pretax amounts included in accumulated other comprehensive loss at December 31, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:
			Pension Benefits								Other Post-Retirement Benefits
	(in thousands)		2013				2012				2013			2012
	Prior service cost (credit)		$	—			$	32			$	(1,506	)	$	—
	Net actuarial loss		203,627				269,005				440			1,851
	Accumulated other comprehensive loss		$	203,627			$	269,037			$	(1,066	)	$	1,851
Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets	'
	Additional information for plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets:
			Pension Benefits								Other Post-Retirement Benefits
	(in thousands)		2013				2012				2013			2012
	Projected benefit obligation		$	497,540			$	547,456			$	1,084		$	4,208
	Accumulated benefit obligation		$	497,540			$	547,456			$	1,084		$	4,208
	Fair value of plan assets		$	353,973			$	330,471			$	—		$	—
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets	'
	The WHX/Bear Pension Plan assets at December 31, 2013 and 2012, by asset category, are as follows:
	(in thousands)
	Fair Value Measurements as of December 31, 2013:
			Assets (Liabilities) at Fair Value as of December 31, 2013
	Asset Class		Level 1				Level 2				Level 3			Total
	Equity securities:
	U.S. large cap		$	27,389			$	596			$	—		$	27,985
	U.S. mid-cap growth		62,477				—				—			62,477
	U.S. small-cap value		14,460				2,031				—			16,491
	International large cap value		16,355				—				—			16,355
	Equity contracts		96				—				—			96
	Fixed income securities:
	Corporate bonds and loans		33				63,405				503			63,941
	Other types of investments:
	Common trust funds (1)		—				98,610				—			98,610
	Fund of funds (2)		—				41,898				—			41,898
			120,810				206,540				503			327,853
	Shorts		(62,776		)		(938		)		—			(63,714		)
	Total		$	58,034			$	205,602			$	503		264,139
	Cash and cash equivalents													94,130
	Net payables													(4,296		)
	Total pension assets													$	353,973
	Fair Value Measurements as of December 31, 2012:
			Assets (Liabilities) at Fair Value as of December 31, 2012
	Asset Class		Level 1				Level 2				Level 3			Total
	Equity securities:
	U.S. large cap		$	20,572			$	543			$	—		$	21,115
	U.S. mid-cap growth		36,065				—				209			36,274
	U.S. small-cap value		15,295				138				—			15,433
	International large cap value		16,118				116				—			16,234
	Equity contracts		308				—				—			308
	Preferred stocks		530				2,016				—			2,546
	Fixed income securities:
	Corporate bonds and loans		415				51,052				548			52,015
	Other types of investments:
	Common trust funds (1)		—				68,830				—			68,830
	Fund of funds (2)		—				37,142				—			37,142
			89,303				159,837				757			249,897
	Futures contracts, net		(58,148		)		5,478				—			(52,670		)
	Total		$	31,155			$	165,315			$	757		197,227
	Cash and cash equivalents													133,590
	Net payables													(346		)
	Total pension assets													$	330,471
	-1	Common trust funds are comprised of shares or units in commingled funds that are not publicly traded. The underlying assets in these funds are primarily publicly traded equity securities, fixed income securities and commodity-related securities and are valued at their Net Asset Values ("NAV") that are calculated by the investment manager or sponsor of the fund.
	-2	Fund of funds consist of fund-of-fund LLC or commingled fund structures. The underlying assets in these funds are primarily publicly traded equity securities, fixed income securities and commodity-related securities. The LLCs are valued based on NAVs calculated by the fund and are not publicly available.
Schedule of Level Three Defined Benefit Plan Assets Roll Forward	'
	WHX/Bear Pension Plan assets for which fair value is determined using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) were as follows during 2013 and 2012:
	Changes in Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
	Year Ended December 31, 2013		U.S. Large Cap				U.S. Mid Cap Growth				Corporate Bonds and Loans
	(in thousands)
	Beginning balance as of January 1, 2013		$	—			$	209			$	548
	Transfers into Level 3		—				—				—
	Transfers out of Level 3		—				—				—
	Gains or losses included in changes in net assets		—				23				85
	Purchases, issuances, sales and settlements
	Purchases		—				—				—
	Issuances		—				—				—
	Sales		—				(232		)		(130		)
	Settlements		—				—				—
	Ending balance as of December 31, 2013		$	—			$	—			$	503
	Year Ended December 31, 2012		U.S. Large Cap				U.S. Mid Cap Growth				Corporate Bonds and Loans
	(in thousands)
	Beginning balance as of January 1, 2012		$	593			$	—			$	—
	Transfers into Level 3		—				—				—
	Transfers out of Level 3		—				—				—
	Gains or losses included in changes in net assets		673				145				11
	Purchases, issuances, sales and settlements
	Purchases		—				—				547
	Issuances		—				64				—
	Sales		(1,202		)		—				(10		)
	Settlements		(64		)		—				—
	Ending balance as of December 31, 2012		$	—			$	209			$	548
Category, fair value, redemption frequency, and redemption notice period for those assets whose fair value is estimated using the NAV	'
	The following tables present the category, fair value, redemption frequency and redemption notice period for those assets whose fair value was estimated using the NAV per share (or its equivalents), as well as plan assets which have redemption notice periods, as of December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (in thousands):
	Class Name		Description		Fair Value December 31, 2013				Redemption frequency		Redemption Notice Period
	Fund of funds		Equity long/short hedge funds		$	5,707			Quarterly		45 day notice
	Fund of funds		Fund of fund composites		$	36,191			Quarterly		45 day notice
	Common trust funds		Equity long/short hedge funds		$	12,635			Annually		90 day notice
	Common trust funds		Event driven hedge funds		$	69,255			Annually		45 day notice
	Common trust funds		Event driven hedge funds		$	16,720			Monthly		90 day notice
	Separately managed fund		Separately managed fund		$	34,991			Monthly		30 day notice
	Separately managed fund		Separately managed fund		$	77,093			Quarterly		45 day notice
	Class Name		Description		Fair Value December 31, 2012				Redemption frequency		Redemption Notice Period
	Fund of funds		Equity long/short hedge funds		$	4,862			Quarterly		45 day notice
	Fund of funds		Fund of fund composites		$	32,280			Quarterly		45 day notice
	Common trust funds		Event driven hedge funds		$	55,853			Annually		45 day notice
	Common trust funds		Event driven hedge funds		$	12,977			Monthly		90 day notice
	Separately managed fund		Separately managed fund		$	33,324			Monthly		30 day notice
	Separately managed fund		Separately managed fund		$	64,490			Quarterly		45 day notice
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments	'
	Estimated future benefit payments for the benefit plans over the next ten years are as follows (in thousands):
			Pension				Other Post-Retirement
	Years		Benefits				Benefits
	2014		$	34,813			$	111
	2015		34,640				118
	2016		34,456				112
	2017		34,247				100
	2018		34,018				94
	2019- 2023		163,182				366

Stockholders_Equity_Tables

Stockholders' Equity (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	'
	Changes, net of tax, in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income and its components follow:
	(in thousands)	Unrealized (Loss) Gain on Marketable Equity Securities			Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments			Change in Net Pension and Other Benefit Obligations			Total
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	(4,072	)	$	2,481		$	(224,577	)	$	(226,168	)
	Current period income	1,710			56			42,675			44,441
	Reclassification adjustments, net of tax	2,362			(2,566		)	—			(204		)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	—		$	(29	)	$	(181,902	)	$	(181,931	)

StockBased_Compensation_Tables

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]	'
Restricted stock activity under the Company's 2007 Plan	'
	Restricted stock activity under the 2007 Plan was as follows for the years ended December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:
	(shares)	Employees		Directors		Total
	Balance, January 1, 2013	503,440		458,000		961,440
	Granted	157,788		162,000		319,788
	Forfeited	(13,202	)	—		(13,202	)
	Reduced for income tax obligations	(2,615	)	—		(2,615	)
	Balance, December 31, 2013	645,411		620,000		1,265,411
	Vested at December 31, 2013	270,124		458,000		728,124
	Non-vested at December 31, 2013	375,287		162,000		537,287
		Employees		Directors		Total
	Balance, January 1, 2012	261,934		206,000		467,934
	Granted	273,400		252,000		525,400
	Forfeited	(11,400	)	—		(11,400	)
	Reduced for income tax obligations	(20,494	)	—		(20,494	)
	Balance, December 31, 2012	503,440		458,000		961,440
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity	'
	The Company recorded no compensation expense related to its stock options in 2013, 2012 or 2011 since the options fully vested prior to 2010.
	Stock option activity under the Company's 2007 Plan was as follows in 2013:
	Options	Shares (000's)		Weighted-Average Exercise Price			Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years)	Aggregate Intrinsic Value (000's)
	Outstanding options at December 31, 2012	49		$	90		3.34	$	—
	Granted	—		—				—
	Exercised	—		—				—
	Forfeited or expired	(7	)	90				—
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013	42		$	90		2.34	$	—
	Exercisable at December 31, 2013	42		$	90		2.34	$	—

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Income before Income Tax	'
	Income from continuing operations before tax and equity investment for the three years ended December 31 is as follows:
		Year Ended December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013				2012				2011
	Domestic	$	36,256			$	28,717			$	20,183
	Foreign	1,893				6,497				8,145
	Total income from continuing operations before tax and equity investment	$	38,149			$	35,214			$	28,328
Schedule of Components of the Provision for (Benefit From) Income Taxes	'
	The provision for (benefit from) income taxes for the three years ended December 31 is as follows:
				Year Ended December 31,
	(in thousands)			2013				2012				2011
	Current
		Domestic		$	2,591			$	2,662			$	1,564
		Foreign		1,123				1,224				1,287
		Total income taxes, current		$	3,714			$	3,886			$	2,851
	Deferred
		Domestic		$	12,757			$	9,071			$	(109,309	)
		Foreign		(443		)		108				370
		Total income taxes, deferred		$	12,314			$	9,179			$	(108,939	)
	Total income tax provision (benefit)			$	16,028			$	13,065			$	(106,088	)
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	'
	The amounts shown on the following table represent the tax effect of temporary differences between the Company's consolidated tax return basis of assets and liabilities and the corresponding basis for financial reporting, as well as tax credit and operating loss carryforwards.
	(in thousands)	December 31,
	Deferred Income Tax Sources	2013				2012
	Current Deferred Income Tax Items:
	Inventories	$	2,426			$	3,503
	Environmental costs	1,220				2,377
	Net operating loss carryforwards	13,323				14,530
	Accrued liabilities	3,046				3,264
	Other items, net	913				1,023
	Current deferred income tax assets before valuation allowance	20,928				24,697
	Valuation allowance	(421		)		(324		)
	Deferred income tax assets - current	$	20,507			$	24,373
	Foreign	$	(433	)		$	(1,022	)
	Deferred income tax liabilities - current	$	(433	)		$	(1,022	)
	Non-Current Deferred Income Tax Items:
	Post-retirement and post-employment employee benefits	$	904			$	1,817
	Net operating loss carryforwards	27,198				45,794
	Pension liability	53,624				81,392
	Impairment of long-lived assets	2,636				2,528
	Minimum tax credit carryforwards	3,265				2,287
	Miscellaneous other	1,953				4,397
	Non-current deferred income tax assets before valuation allowance	89,580				138,215
	Valuation allowance	(1,729		)		(1,814		)
	Non-current deferred income tax assets	87,851				136,401
	Property, plant and equipment	(13,558		)		(13,802		)
	Intangible assets	(9,378		)		(7,526		)
	Undistributed foreign earnings	(568		)		(534		)
	Other items, net	(4,661		)		(1,971		)
	Non-current deferred income tax liabilities	(28,165		)		(23,833		)
	Net non-current deferred income tax assets	$	59,686			$	112,568
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation	'
	The provision (benefit) for income taxes differs from the amount of income tax determined by applying the applicable U.S. statutory federal income tax rate to pretax income as follows:
		Year Ended December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013				2012				2011
	Income from continuing operations before tax and equity investment	$	38,149			$	35,214			$	28,328
	Tax provision at statutory rate	$	13,352			$	12,325			$	9,915
	Increase (decrease) in tax due to:
	Foreign dividend income	—				—				929
	State income tax, net of federal effect	2,455				2,396				919
	Net increase (decrease) in valuation allowance	12				(454		)		(116,689		)
	(Decrease) increase in liability for uncertain tax positions	(679		)		8				43
	Net effect of foreign tax rate and tax holidays	17				(942		)		(369		)
	Other items, net	871				(268		)		(836		)
	Tax provision (benefit)	$	16,028			$	13,065			$	(106,088	)
Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward	'
	The changes in the amount of unrecognized tax benefits in 2013 and 2012 were as follows:
		Year Ended December 31,
	(in thousands)	2013				2012
	Beginning balance	$	2,273			$	2,306
	Additions for tax positions related to current year	404				368
	Additions due to interest accrued	80				100
	Tax positions of prior years:
	Payments	(250		)		(42		)
	Settlements	(640		)		—
	Due to lapsed statutes of limitations	(488		)		(484		)
	Other	(35		)		25
	Ending balance	$	1,344			$	2,273

Earnings_Per_Share_Tables

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method	'
	The computation of basic earnings per share of common stock is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of shares of the Company's common stock outstanding, as follows:
		Year Ended December 31,
	(in thousands, except per share)	2013		2012		2011
	Income from continuing operations, net of tax	$	28,127	$	22,149	$	134,416
	Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding	13,251		13,032		12,555
	Income from continuing operations, net of tax, per share	$	2.12	$	1.7	$	10.71
	Net income from discontinued operations	$	13,902	$	4,332	$	4,359
	Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding	13,251		13,032		12,555
	Discontinued operations, net of tax, per share	$	1.05	$	0.33	$	0.34
	Net income	$	42,029	$	26,481	$	138,775
	Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding	13,251		13,032		12,555
	Net income per share	$	3.17	$	2.03	$	11.05

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis	'
	The following table summarizes the Company's assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis, the amounts on the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the activity in those assets and liabilities that are valued using Level 3 measurements.
		Asset (Liability) as of December 31, 2013
	(in thousands)	Total			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
	Investment in associated company	$	33,983		$	33,983		$	—		$	—
	Precious metal and commodity inventories recorded at fair value	$	14,766		$	14,766		$	—		$	—
	Commodity contracts on precious metal and commodity inventories	$	1,620		$	1,620		$	—		$	—
	Interest rate swap agreements	$	(214	)	$	—		$	(214	)	$	—
		Asset (Liability) as of December 31, 2012
	(in thousands)	Total			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
	Investment in associated company	$	17,229		$	17,229		$	—		$	—
	Commodity contracts on precious metal and commodity inventories	$	100		$	127		$	(27	)	$	—
	Derivative features of Subordinated Notes	$	793		$	—		$	—		$	793
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation	'
	(in thousands)	Year ended December 31,
	Activity	2013			2012
	Beginning balance	$	793		$	(1,314	)
	Total net (losses) gains included in:
	Net income	(793		)	2,060
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	—			—
	Purchases	—			—
	Issuances	—			—
	Sales	—			—
	Settlements	—			47
	Net transfers into / (out of) Level 3	—			—
	Ending balance	$	—		$	793

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases	'
	Future minimum operating lease and rental commitments under non-cancelable operating leases are as follows (in thousands):
	Year	Amount
	2014	4,331
	2015	3,060
	2016	2,506
	2017	1,938
	2018	1,430
	Thereafter	2,226
		$	15,491

Reportable_Segments_Tables

Reportable Segments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Information about Reportable Segments	'
	The following tables present information about the Company's reportable segments for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011:
	Income Statement Data		Year Ended
	(in thousands)		December 31,
			2013			2012			2011
	Net sales:
	Joining Materials		$	195,187		$	174,621		$	190,607
	Tubing		91,002			80,849			76,676
	Building Materials		226,806			189,106			178,948
	Arlon		84,060			80,815			81,282
	Kasco		58,169			54,137			52,251
	Total net sales		$	655,224		$	579,528		$	579,764
	Segment operating income:
	Joining Materials (a)		$	16,624		$	23,942		$	24,747
	Tubing		17,434			14,258			13,958
	Building Materials		27,789			22,172			19,883
	Arlon (b)		10,769			11,594			8,348
	Kasco		4,496			4,431			4,227
	Total segment operating income		77,112			76,397			71,163
	Unallocated corporate expenses and non-operating units		(20,895		)	(23,387		)	(19,318		)
	Unallocated pension expense		(5,342		)	(3,313		)	(6,357		)
	Gain from asset dispositions		75			93			50
	Operating income		50,950			49,790			45,538
	Interest expense		(13,705		)	(16,719		)	(16,268		)
	Realized and unrealized gain on derivatives		1,195			2,582			418
	Other expense		(291		)	(439		)	(1,360		)
	Income from continuing operations before tax and equity investment		$	38,149		$	35,214		$	28,328
	a)	The results for the Joining Materials segment for 2012 and 2011 include gains of $0.6 million and $1.9 million, respectively, resulting from the liquidation of precious metal inventory valued at LIFO cost. No similar gain was recorded in 2013 due to an increase in ending inventory quantities.
	b)	Segment operating income of the Arlon segment for 2011 includes an asset impairment charge of $0.7 million to write-down vacant land located in Rancho Cucamonga, California to fair value.
	(in thousands)		2013			2012			2011
	Capital Expenditures
	Joining Materials		$	3,135		$	2,951		$	1,574
	Tubing		3,679			5,157			2,882
	Building Materials		3,424			4,776			1,049
	Arlon		4,482			5,113			5,055
	Kasco		1,339			2,236			1,422
	Corporate and other		167			62			64
			$	16,226		$	20,295		$	12,046
	(in thousands)		2013			2012			2011
	Depreciation and Amortization
	Joining Materials		$	2,682		$	1,110		$	1,373
	Tubing		2,399			2,250			2,201
	Building Materials		4,600			4,132			4,049
	Arlon		4,211			3,828			4,041
	Kasco		2,095			1,920			2,199
	Corporate and other		151			103			285
			$	16,138		$	13,343		$	14,148
	(in thousands)		2013			2012
	Total Assets
	Joining Materials		$	108,621		$	53,088
	Tubing		37,550			36,096
	Building Materials		134,320			121,392
	Arlon		71,046			66,255
	Kasco		23,612			25,215
	Corporate and other		133,923			178,204
	Discontinued operations		651			32,111
			$	509,723		$	512,361
	The following table presents revenue and long-lived asset information by geographic area as of and for the years ended December 31. Foreign revenue is based on the country in which the legal subsidiary is domiciled. Long-lived assets in 2013 and 2012 consist of property, plant and equipment, plus approximately $9.4 million and $8.2 million, respectively, of land and buildings from previously operating businesses, and other non-operating assets that are carried at the lower of cost or fair value and are included primarily in other non-current assets on the consolidated balance sheets. Neither net sales nor long-lived assets from any single foreign country was material to the consolidated financial statements of the Company.
	Geographic Information
	(in thousands)		Net Sales
			2013			2012			2011
	United States		$	590,479		$	512,470		$	505,583
	Foreign		64,745			67,058			74,181
			$	655,224		$	579,528		$	579,764
(in thousands)		Long-Lived Assets
		2013			2012
United States		$	77,065		$	66,537
Foreign		23,225			23,150
		$	100,290		$	89,687

Parent_Company_Condensed_Finan1

Parent Company Condensed Financial Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Condensed Balance Sheet	'
	Balance Sheets
	(in thousands, except par value)
		December 31,			December 31,
		2013			2012
	ASSETS
	Current Assets:
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	1,853		$	735
	Deferred income tax assets - current	4,062			8,231
	Prepaid and other current assets	92			105
	Total current assets	6,007			9,071
	Notes receivable from Bairnco	4,627			4,627
	Investment in associated company	33,983			17,229
	Deferred income tax assets	64,088			102,221
	Investments in and advances to subsidiaries, net	278,730			226,878
	Total assets	$	387,435		$	360,026
	LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
	Current Liabilities:
	Trade payables	$	61		$	99
	Accrued liabilities	718			648
	Total current liabilities	779			747
	Accrued interest - Handy & Harman	12,193			12,193
	Notes payable to Handy & Harman	98,188			80,083
	Accrued pension liability	142,403			215,075
	Total liabilities	253,563			308,098
	Commitments and Contingencies
	Stockholders' Equity:
	Common stock - $.01 par value; authorized 180,000 shares;
	issued 13,444 and 13,140 shares, respectively	134			131
	Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(181,931		)	(226,168		)
	Additional paid-in capital	565,441			559,970
	Treasury stock, at cost - 458 and 0 shares, respectively	(9,796		)	—
	Accumulated deficit	(239,976		)	(282,005		)
	Total stockholders' equity	133,872			51,928
	Liabilities and stockholders' equity	$	387,435		$	360,026
Schedule of Condensed Income Statement	'
	Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income (Loss)
	(in thousands)
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Equity in income of subsidiaries, net of tax	$	44,275		$	35,498		$	40,044
	Selling, general and administrative expenses	(7,790		)	(7,720		)	(5,883		)
	Pension expense	(5,206		)	(3,195		)	(6,316		)
	Other:
	Interest expense - Handy & Handy notes payable	—			(4,087		)	(2,889		)
	Interest income - Bairnco notes receivable	—			560			491
	Other income (expense)	—			15			(3		)
	Income before tax and equity investment	31,279			21,071			25,444
	Tax benefit	4,744			5,410			113,331
	Gain from associated company, net of tax	6,006			—			—
	Net income	42,029			26,481			138,775
	Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
	Changes in pension liability and post-retirement benefit obligations	68,328			(43,702		)	(82,805		)
	Tax effect of changes in pension liability and post-retirement benefit obligations	(25,653		)	14,455			27,211
	Change in market value of securities	7,113			(14,948		)	7,835
	Tax effect of change in market value of securities	(3,041		)	6,054			(3,014		)
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	(2,510		)	362			(1,751		)
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	44,237			(37,779		)	(52,524		)
	Comprehensive income (loss)	$	86,266		$	(11,298	)	$	86,251
Schedule of Condensed Cash Flow Statement	'
	Statements of Cash Flows
	(in thousands)
		Year ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Cash flows from operating activities:
	Net income	$	42,029		$	26,481		$	138,775
	Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
	used in operating activities:
	Equity in income of subsidiaries, net of tax	(44,275		)	(35,498		)	(40,044		)
	Payment in kind interest expense - Handy & Harman	—			4,087			2,889
	Payment in kind interest income - Bairnco	—			(560		)	(491		)
	Non-cash stock-based compensation	4,860			4,476			2,837
	Non-cash gain from associated company	(6,006		)	—			—
	Deferred income taxes	(5,945		)	(5,410		)	(113,490		)
	Change in operating assets and liabilities:
	Advances from affiliates	—			—			(424		)
	Pension payments - WHX Pension Plan	(13,106		)	(15,919		)	(15,235		)
	Pension expense	5,206			3,195			6,316
	Other current assets and liabilities	45			(1,047		)	(1,330		)
	Net cash used in operating activities	(17,192		)	(20,195		)	(20,197		)
	Cash flows from investing activities:
	Investments in marketable securities	—			(6,321		)	(18,021		)
	Dividends from subsidiaries	10,000			6,321			18,021
	Net cash provided by investing activities	10,000			—			—
	Cash flows from financing activities:
	Notes payable - Handy & Harman	18,106			19,419			18,735
	Purchases of treasury stock	(9,796		)	—			—
	Net cash provided by financing activities	8,310			19,419			18,735
	Net change for the year	1,118			(776		)	(1,462		)
	Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	735			1,511			2,973
	Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$	1,853		$	735		$	1,511

Unaudited_Quarterly_Results_Ta

Unaudited Quarterly Results (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information	'
	Unaudited quarterly financial results during the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:
	(in thousands, except per share amounts)	Fiscal 2013 Quarter Ended (Unaudited)
		March 31,			June 30,		September 30,		December 31,
	Net sales	$	148,957		$	182,084	$	171,874	$	152,309
	Operating income	$	11,201		$	17,964	$	16,249	$	5,536
	Income from continuing operations before tax and equity investment	$	2,180		$	17,687	$	14,004	$	4,278
	Net income (loss) from discontinued operations	$	9,541		$	1,661	$	2,904	$	(204	)
	Net income	$	8,017		$	11,872	$	9,643	$	12,497
	Comprehensive income	$	11,431		$	12,691	$	7,694	$	54,450
	Basic and diluted income per share of common stock
	(Loss) income from continuing operations, net of tax, per share	$	(0.11	)	$	0.76	$	0.51	$	0.96
	Discontinued operations, net of tax, per share	$	0.72		$	0.12	$	0.22	$	(0.01	)
	Net income per share	$	0.61		$	0.88	$	0.73	$	0.95
	(in thousands, except per share amounts)	Fiscal 2012 Quarter Ended (Unaudited)
		March 31,			June 30,		September 30,		December 31,
	Net sales	$	144,386		$	164,430	$	144,628	$	126,084
	Operating income	$	10,482		$	19,397	$	12,855	$	7,056
	Income from continuing operations before tax and equity investment	$	7,519		$	16,546	$	7,331	$	3,818
	Net income from discontinued operations	$	585		$	1,230	$	1,205	$	1,312
	Net income	$	5,096		$	10,952	$	5,930	$	4,503
	Comprehensive income (loss)	$	4,945		$	1,617	$	9,551	$	(27,411	)
	Basic and diluted income per share of common stock
	Income from continuing operations, net of tax, per share	$	0.35		$	0.74	$	0.36	$	0.24
	Discontinued operations, net of tax, per share	$	0.05		$	0.09	$	0.09	$	0.1
	Net income per share	$	0.4		$	0.83	$	0.45	$	0.34

Summary_of_Accounting_Policies2

Summary of Accounting Policies (Cash and Cash Equivalents) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$10,300,000	$15,301,000	$6,841,000	$8,762,000
Cash and cash equivalents which exceeded federally-insured limits	2,200,000	'	'	'
Cash Held in Foreign Banks	'	'	'	'
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$6,500,000	$8,000,000	'	'

Summary_of_Accounting_Policies3

Summary of Accounting Policies (Revenue Recognition) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified			Minimum	Maximum
			Rental Revenues	Rental Revenues
Deferred Revenue Arrangement [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Rental period (in months)	'	'	'3 months	'6 months
Accrued Rebates Payable	$5.40	$4.50	'	'

Summary_of_Accounting_Policies4

Summary of Accounting Policies (Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Concentration Risk [Line Items]	'	'	'
Largest Customers (in number of customers)	15	'	'
Sales Revenue, Goods, Net | Customer Concentration Risk	'	'	'
Concentration Risk [Line Items]	'	'	'
Largest customers as a percentage of sales	26.00%	28.00%	27.00%

Summary_of_Accounting_Policies5

Summary of Accounting Policies (Property, Plant and Equipment) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Machinery & Equipment | Minimum	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Estimated useful lives of assets (in years)	'3 years
Machinery & Equipment | Maximum	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Estimated useful lives of assets (in years)	'15 years
Buildings and Improvements | Minimum	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Estimated useful lives of assets (in years)	'10 years
Buildings and Improvements | Maximum	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Estimated useful lives of assets (in years)	'30 years

Summary_of_Accounting_Policies6

Summary of Accounting Policies (Advertising Costs) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'	'	'
Advertising, promotion and trade show costs	$2.80	$2.40	$2.20

Acquisitions_Wolverine_Narrati

Acquisitions (Wolverine Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended		0 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Apr. 16, 2013	Apr. 16, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Apr. 16, 2013	Apr. 16, 2013	Apr. 16, 2013
	Wolverine	Wolverine	Wolverine Joining	Wolverine Joining	Wolverine and Wolverine Joining	Wolverine and Wolverine Joining	Trade Names	Customer Relationships
							Wolverine and Wolverine Joining	Wolverine and Wolverine Joining
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Acquisition purchase price	'	$59,700,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Final working capital and other adjustments	'	'	300,000	'	'	'	'	'
Employee severance charges	'	'	'	400,000	'	'	'	'
Goodwill	'	'	'	'	'	14,767,000	'	'
Intangible assets acquired	'	'	'	'	'	13,657,000	4,600,000	9,000,000
Useful lives	'	'	'	'	'20 years	'	'	'
Sales	43,300,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Operating income	1,600,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Intercompany sales	3,500,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Acquisition-related costs	'	'	'	'	600,000	'	'	'
Fair value adjustment	'	'	'	'	$500,000	'	'	'

Discontinued_Operations_Narrat

Discontinued Operations (Narrative) (Details)

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Jul. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 30, 2011

Jan. 31, 2013

Jun. 30, 2013

Jul. 31, 2013

Jun. 30, 2013

Feb. 04, 2011

Mar. 25, 2011

Dec. 31, 2011

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Indiana Tube Denmark

Indiana Tube Denmark

Indiana Tube Denmark

Kasco-France

Handy & Harman Group Ltd.

Handy & Harman Group Ltd.

Handy & Harman Group Ltd.

Handy & Harman Group Ltd.

Arlon CM

Arlon CM

Arlon CM

USD ($)

USD ($)

EUR (€)

Continental Industries

Canfield

Indiana Tube Mexico

Indiana Tube Mexico

Adhesive Film Division

Arlon LLC Engineered Coated Products Devision and SignTech Subsidiary

Arlon LLC Engineered Coated Products Devision and SignTech Subsidiary

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

installment

Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Aggregate sale price

'

'

'

'

'

$2,400,000

'

$37,400,000

$9,500,000

$3,700,000

'

$27,000,000

$2,500,000

'

Working capital adjustment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

100,000

500,000

'

'

'

'

'

Net sale proceeds

-102,000

-1,282,000

-1,380,000

'

'

'

'

3,700,000

'

'

'

24,200,000

2,300,000

'

Sale price of stock

'

'

'

'

'

'

1

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Sale price, percentage of pretax earnings (as a percent)

'

'

'

'

'

'

25.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Sale price, term (in years)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'3 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Supply agreement, term (in years)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'5 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of installments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2

'

'

'

'

Sale price installment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,850,000

'

'

'

'

Restructuring reserve

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

900,000

'

'

'

Foreign currency translation gains

'

'

'

2,600,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Sale price on disposal of equipment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

500,000

'

Escrow held in trade and other receivables

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,000,000

Note receivable

'

'

'

'

'

$800,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Note receivable payment term (in years)

'

'

'

'

'5 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Acquisitions_Wolverine_Assets_

Acquisitions (Wolverine - Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed) (Details) (Wolverine and Wolverine Joining, USD $)	Apr. 16, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Wolverine and Wolverine Joining	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'
Trade and other receivables	$9,491
Inventories	17,864
Prepaid and other current assets	81
Property, plant and equipment	5,549
Goodwill	14,767
Other intangibles	13,657
Total assets acquired	61,409
Trade payables	-1,167
Accrued liabilities	-495
Net assets acquired	$59,747

Discontinued_Operations_Assets

Discontinued Operations (Assets and Liabilities of Discontinued Operations) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Assets of Discontinued Operations:	'	'
Trade and other receivables, net	$0	$6,372
Inventories, net	0	7,097
Prepaid and other current assets	587	1,438
Property, plant and equipment, net	0	7,934
Goodwill	0	9,156
Other non-current assets	64	114
Total Assets	651	32,111
Liabilities of Discontinued Operations	'	'
Liabilities of Discontinued Operations	$151	$9,160

Acquisitions_Wolverine_Pro_For

Acquisitions (Wolverine - Pro Forma Information) (Details) (Wolverine and Wolverine Joining, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Wolverine and Wolverine Joining	'	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'
Net sales	$680,374	$662,072
Net income	$43,411	$28,720
Net income per share	$3.28	$2.20
Weighted-average shares outstanding	13,251	13,032

Discontinued_Operations_Income

Discontinued Operations (Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net sales	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$20,094	$83,228	$102,033
Operating (loss) income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-1,559	6,999	2,743
Interest and other expense	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-47	-91	-192
Income tax benefit (expense)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	609	-2,597	-873
(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax	-204	2,904	1,661	9,541	1,312	1,205	1,230	585	-997	4,311	1,678
Gain on disposal of assets	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	27,573	21	6,041
Income tax expense	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-12,674	0	-3,360
Net income from discontinued operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$13,902	$4,332	$4,359

Acquisitions_PAM_Details

Acquisitions (PAM) (Details) (PAM Fastening Technology, Inc., USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Nov. 07, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
PAM Fastening Technology, Inc.	'	'	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'	'
Percentage of interest acquired (as a percent)	'	100.00%	'
Acquisition purchase price	'	$9,200,000	'
Working capital	'	2,900,000	'
Property, plant and equipment	'	200,000	'
Other intangibles	'	5,100,000	'
Sales	1,500,000	'	'
Operating income	200,000	'	'
Goodwill	'	'	$3,400,000

Acquisitions_Zaklad_Details

Acquisitions (Zaklad) (Details) (Zaklad, USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Nov. 05, 2012
Zaklad	'	'	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'	'
Percentage of interest acquired (as a percent)	'	'	100.00%
Acquisition purchase price	'	'	$4,000,000
Trade payables	'	'	3,100,000
Property, plant and equipment	'	'	2,200,000
Assumed debt	'	'	1,600,000
Sales	18,000,000	1,700,000	'
Operating income	-600,000	-100,000	'
Intercompany sales	$8,700,000	$1,200,000	'

Acquisitions_WP_Hickman_Detail

Acquisitions (W.P. Hickman) (Details) (W.P. Hickman, USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013
W.P. Hickman	'	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'
Acquisition purchase price	$8,200,000	'
Proceeds from working capital adjustment	300,000	'
Working capital	2,600,000	'
Property, plant and equipment	1,200,000	'
Intangible assets acquired	1,800,000	'
Goodwill	2,800,000	'
Sales	'	17,100,000
Operating income	'	1,300,000
Range of outcomes, Value, High	1,500,000	'
Contingent consideration at fair value	$200,000	'

Acquisitions_Tiger_Claw_Detail

Acquisitions (Tiger Claw) (Details) (Tiger Claw, USD $)	Mar. 23, 2011
Tiger Claw	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'
Acquisition purchase price	$8,500,000
Goodwill	$1,800,000

Asset_Impairment_Charge_Detail

Asset Impairment Charge (Details) (Arlon, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012
Arlon	'
Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings [Line Items]	'
Asset Impairment Charges	$0.70

Inventories_Summary_Details

Inventories (Summary) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Finished products	$21,887	$19,596
In-process	9,840	8,344
Raw materials	15,246	14,130
Fine and fabricated precious metals in various stages of completion	19,802	9,599
Inventory, before LIFO reserve	66,775	51,669
LIFO reserve	-1,025	-4,139
Inventory, Net	$65,750	$47,530

Inventories_Narrative_Details

Inventories (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
	oz
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'	'
LIFO reserve	$1,025,000	$4,139,000	'
Effect of LIFO Inventory Liquidation on Income	$0	$600,000	$1,900,000
Customer metal, ounces of silver	247,103.12	'	'
Customer metal, ounces of gold	575.883	'	'
Customer metal, ounces of palladium	1,392.02	'	'

Inventories_Supplemental_Infor

Inventories (Supplemental Information) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Precious metals stated at LIFO cost	$5,090	$5,460
Precious metals stated under non-LIFO cost methods, primarily at fair value	$13,687	$0
Market value per ounce: (in dollars per ounce)	'	'
Silver	19.49	30.2
Gold	1,201.50	1,675.40
Palladium	711	702.85

Property_Plant_and_Equipment_D

Property, Plant and Equipment (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'	'
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$185,945,000	$170,132,000	'
Accumulated depreciation	94,748,000	88,403,000	'
Property, plant and equipment, net	91,197,000	81,729,000	'
Depreciation	11,900,000	10,000,000	10,800,000
Land	'	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'	'
Property, plant and equipment, gross	9,177,000	7,366,000	'
Buildings, machinery and equipment	'	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'	'
Property, plant and equipment, gross	169,411,000	155,253,000	'
Construction in progress	'	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'	'
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$7,357,000	$7,513,000	'

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangibles2

Goodwill and Other Intangibles (Changes in the Net Carrying Amount of Goodwill) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	$59,783	$56,511
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments	14	5
Additions	18,169	3,267
Adjustments	-454	'
Balance at end of period	77,512	59,783
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss [Abstract]	'	'
Accumulated Impairment Losses	-1,140	-1,140
Joining Materials	'	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	1,494	1,489
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments	14	5
Additions	14,767	0
Adjustments	0	'
Balance at end of period	16,275	1,494
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss [Abstract]	'	'
Accumulated Impairment Losses	0	0
Tubing	'	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	1,895	1,895
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments	0	0
Additions	0	0
Adjustments	0	'
Balance at end of period	1,895	1,895
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss [Abstract]	'	'
Accumulated Impairment Losses	0	0
Building Materials	'	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	47,096	43,829
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments	0	0
Additions	3,402	3,267
Adjustments	-454	'
Balance at end of period	50,044	47,096
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss [Abstract]	'	'
Accumulated Impairment Losses	0	0
Arlon	'	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	9,298	9,298
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments	0	0
Additions	0	0
Adjustments	0	'
Balance at end of period	9,298	9,298
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss [Abstract]	'	'
Accumulated Impairment Losses	($1,140)	($1,140)

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangibles3

Goodwill and Other Intangibles (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'
Goodwill acquired during the period	$18,169,000	$3,267,000	'
Adjustments	454,000	'	'
Amortization expense	4,200,000	3,300,000	3,300,000
Joining Materials	'	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'
Goodwill acquired during the period	14,767,000	0	'
Adjustments	0	'	'
Building Materials	'	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'
Goodwill acquired during the period	3,402,000	3,267,000	'
Adjustments	$454,000	'	'

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangibles4

Goodwill and Other Intangibles (Schedule of Goodwill) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Cost	$70,613	$51,330
Accumulated Amortization	-22,277	-18,112
Net	48,336	33,218
Customer relationships	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Cost	52,565	38,825
Accumulated Amortization	-16,259	-13,232
Net	36,306	25,593
Weighted-Average Amortization Life (in Years)	'16 years 6 months	'
Trademarks, trade names and brand names	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Cost	10,231	5,048
Accumulated Amortization	-2,116	-1,634
Net	8,115	3,414
Weighted-Average Amortization Life (in Years)	'17 years 6 months	'
Patents and patent applications	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Cost	5,103	4,789
Accumulated Amortization	-1,870	-1,523
Net	3,233	3,266
Weighted-Average Amortization Life (in Years)	'15 years 6 months	'
Non-compete agreements	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Cost	906	906
Accumulated Amortization	-839	-809
Net	67	97
Weighted-Average Amortization Life (in Years)	'7 years 1 month 6 days	'
Other	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
Cost	1,808	1,762
Accumulated Amortization	-1,193	-914
Net	$615	$848
Weighted-Average Amortization Life (in Years)	'6 years 1 month 6 days	'

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangibles5

Goodwill and Other Intangibles (Estimated Amortization Expense) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
2014	$4,691	'
2015	4,581	'
2016	4,377	'
2017	4,315	'
2018	4,251	'
Thereafter	26,121	'
Net	48,336	33,218
Customer relationships	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
2014	3,421	'
2015	3,421	'
2016	3,421	'
2017	3,414	'
2018	3,378	'
Thereafter	19,251	'
Net	36,306	25,593
Trademarks, Trade Names and Brand Names	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
2014	594	'
2015	594	'
2016	594	'
2017	594	'
2018	594	'
Thereafter	5,145	'
Net	8,115	'
Patents and patent applications	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
2014	356	'
2015	342	'
2016	270	'
2017	270	'
2018	270	'
Thereafter	1,725	'
Net	3,233	3,266
Non-compete agreements	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
2014	30	'
2015	30	'
2016	7	'
2017	0	'
2018	0	'
Thereafter	0	'
Net	67	97
Other	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'	'
2014	290	'
2015	194	'
2016	85	'
2017	37	'
2018	9	'
Thereafter	0	'
Net	$615	$848

Investments_Narrative_Details

Investments (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended										0 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Mar. 11, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 12, 2013	Feb. 11, 2013	Mar. 12, 2013
				HNH	ModusLink	ModusLink	ModusLink	ModusLink	ModusLink	ModusLink	Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss)
						HNH	Steel Partner Holdings & HNH	Steel Partner Holdings	Steel Partner Holdings	Steel Partner Holdings	ModusLink
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Effect of LIFO Inventory Liquidation on Income	$0	$600,000	$1,900,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Investments in and advances to subsidiaries, net	33,983,000	17,229,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Investment in associated company	'	17,200,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Number of shares owned (in shares)	'	'	'	'	'	6,481,185	'	'	'	'	'
Ownership percentage (as a percent)	'	'	'	11.50%	'	14.70%	27.10%	15.60%	'	'	'
Number of shares purchased (in shares)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	7,500,000	'	'
Stock price (in dollars per share)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$4	'
Number of warrants purchased (in shares)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	2,000,000	'
Cost of investment	'	'	'	'	24,300,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Exercise price of warrants (in dollars per share)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	5	'
Accumulated unrealized loss	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	4,300,000
Tax benefit on accumulated unrealized loss	($3,041,000)	$6,054,000	($3,014,000)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$1,900,000

Investments_Summarized_Informa

Investments (Summarized Information as to Assets, Liabilities and Results of Operations) (Details) (ModusLink, USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012	Jul. 31, 2013
ModusLink	'	'	'	'	'
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Current assets	$319,994	'	$319,994	'	$291,086
Non-current assets	50,235	'	50,235	'	52,610
Current liabilities	199,324	'	199,324	'	176,431
Non-current liabilities	10,706	'	10,706	'	10,360
Stockholders' equity	160,199	'	160,199	'	156,905
Net revenue	191,415	197,051	545,432	543,733	'
Gross profit	21,995	18,624	57,463	46,002	'
Income (loss) from continuing operations	538	-9,831	-16,544	-27,641	'
Net income (loss)	$617	($10,660)	($16,530)	($37,037)	'

Debt_Schedule_of_Debt_Details

Debt (Schedule of Debt) (Details) (USD $)

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Apr. 26, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Nov. 08, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Oct. 14, 2011

Oct. 15, 2010

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Senior Term Loan

Senior Term Loan

Senior Term Loan

Senior Term Loan

Revolving Facility

Revolving Facility

Subordinated Notes, net of unamortized discount

Subordinated Notes, net of unamortized discount

Subordinated Notes, net of unamortized discount

Subordinated Notes, net of unamortized discount

Other H&H debt - domestic

Other H&H debt - domestic

Foreign loan facilities

Foreign loan facilities

Foreign

Foreign

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Short-term debt

$304,000

$778,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$304,000

$778,000

Long-term Debt

156,887,000

[1]

137,750,000

116,000,000

160,000,000

115,000,000

115,000,000

30,950,000

0

0

9,440,000

'

'

8,279,000

8,597,000

1,658,000

4,713,000

'

'

Current portion of long-term debt

12,818,000

8,943,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term debt

144,069,000

128,807,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term debt - related party

0

19,916,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

0

19,916,000

25,000,000

72,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long Term Debt, Including Related Parties Debt

144,069,000

148,723,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount, Including Related Parties Debt

$157,191,000

$158,444,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

[1]

Assumes repayment of the Revolving Facility on its contractual maturity date.

Debt_Long_Term_Debt_Maturities

Debt (Long Term Debt Maturities) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'		'
Long-term Debt	$156,887,000	[1]	$137,750,000
2014	12,818,000	[1]	'
2015	21,969,000	[1]	'
2016	15,691,000	[1]	'
2017	106,409,000	[1]	'
2018	0	[1]	'
Thereafter	0	[1]	'
Subordinated Notes	'		'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'		'
Long-term Debt	$0		$9,440,000
[1]	Assumes repayment of the Revolving Facility on its contractual maturity date.

Debt_Senior_Credit_Facility_De

Debt (Senior Credit Facility) (Details) (USD $)

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Nov. 08, 2012

Jun. 30, 2013

Feb. 28, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 13, 2013

Nov. 08, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Apr. 26, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Nov. 08, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Nov. 08, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Interest rate swap agreements

Interest rate swap agreements

London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR)

U.S. Base Rate

Revolving Facility

Revolving Facility

Revolving Facility

Revolving Facility

Loans Payable

Loans Payable

Loans Payable

Loans Payable

Loans Payable

Letter of Credit

Letter of Credit

Letter of Credit

Letter of Credit

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Line of Credit

Line of Credit

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Revolving Facility

Line of Credit

Line of Credit

Line of Credit

Line of Credit

Insurance Activities

Environmental and Other Matters

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Senior secured credit facility

'

'

$205,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Aggregate maximum principal amount

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

125,000,000

90,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

15,000,000

'

'

Long-term Debt

156,887,000

[1]

137,750,000

'

'

'

'

'

30,950,000

0

'

'

116,000,000

160,000,000

115,000,000

115,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

Paid dividends

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

7,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Principal payments 2014

12,818,000

[1]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,100,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Principal payments 2015

21,969,000

[1]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Principal payments 2016

15,691,000

[1]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Principal payments 2017

106,409,000

[1]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Variable rate basis

'

'

'

'

'

'LIBOR

'Base Rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Basis spread on variable rate (as a percentage)

'

'

'

'

'

2.75%

1.75%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Letters of credit

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,300,000

'

3,100,000

100,000

Remaining excess availability under the Borrowing Base

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

36,400,000

'

'

'

Weighted average interest rate (as a percent)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3.00%

'

'

'

3.13%

'

'

'

'

Fixed interest rate (as a percent)

'

'

'

0.60%

0.57%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Notional amount of debt

'

'

'

5,000,000

56,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Notional amount 2013

'

'

'

100,000

1,100,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Notional amount 2014

'

'

'

200,000

1,800,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Notional amount 2015

'

'

'

$200,000

$2,200,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

[1]

Assumes repayment of the Revolving Facility on its contractual maturity date.

Debt_Subordinated_Notes_Detail

Debt (Subordinated Notes) (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Oct. 15, 2010

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 26, 2013

Oct. 14, 2011

Oct. 15, 2010

Oct. 15, 2010

Oct. 15, 2010

Subordinated Notes

Subordinated Notes

Subordinated Notes

Subordinated Notes

Subordinated Notes

Subordinated Notes

Subordinated Notes

Subordinated Notes

Common Stock

Payable in Cash

Payable In-Kind

Subordinated Notes

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Extinguishment of debt

'

'

'

'

$6,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term debt - related party

'

0

19,916,000

'

72,900,000

19,916,000

'

0

'

25,000,000

'

'

'

Interest rate (as a percent)

'

'

'

'

10.00%

'

'

'

'

'

6.00%

4.00%

'

Number of securities called by warrants (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,500,806

Exercise price of warrants (in dollars per share)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

11

Redemption amount

'

'

'

'

'

10,800,000

35,100,000

'

31,800,000

25,000,000

'

'

'

Redemption amount (as a percent)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

112.60%

102.80%

'

'

'

(Loss) gain on repurchase of debt instrument

'

'

'

'

'

-1,400,000

200,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Irrevocable deposit

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

36,900,000

'

'

'

'

Loss on Extinguishment of Debt

($5,700,000)

($5,662,000)

($1,368,000)

$189,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt_Other_Debt_Details

Debt (Other Debt) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013		Apr. 26, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Nov. 08, 2012
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'		'	'	'
Long-term Debt	$156,887,000	[1]	'	$137,750,000	'
Loans Payable | Senior Notes	'		'	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'		'	'	'
Weighted average interest rate (as a percent)	3.00%		'	'	'
Long-term Debt	116,000,000		160,000,000	115,000,000	115,000,000
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate | Mortgage Loan, First Facility	'		'	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'		'	'	'
Mortgage agreements	6,500,000		'	6,800,000	'
Weighted average interest rate (as a percent)	2.87%		'	'	'
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate | Mortgage Loan, First Facility | LIBOR	'		'	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'		'	'	'
Basis spread on variable rate (as a percentage)	'		'	2.70%	'
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate | Mortgage Loan, Second Facility	'		'	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'		'	'	'
Mortgage agreements	1,700,000		'	1,800,000	'
Weighted average interest rate (as a percent)	'		'	0.00%	'
Foreign Loan Facilities	'		'	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'		'	'	'
Long-term Debt	$1,658,000		'	$4,713,000	'
[1]	Assumes repayment of the Revolving Facility on its contractual maturity date.

Derivative_Instruments_Narrati

Derivative Instruments (Narrative) (Details) (Futures and Forwards Contracts)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
	Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments	Not Designated as Hedging Instrument	Not Designated as Hedging Instrument
	Silver and Copper, Ounces	Gold, Ounces	Silver, Ounces
	oz	oz	oz
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'	'
Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount	570,000	1,000	650,000

Derivative_Instruments_Outstan

Derivative Instruments (Outstanding Forward and Future Contracts) (Details) (Not Designated as Hedging Instrument, Futures and Forwards Contracts, USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
	oz
Silver, Ounces	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Outstanding forward and future contracts (in ounces)	650,000
Notional amount of debt	$12,600,000
Gold, Ounces	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Outstanding forward and future contracts (in ounces)	1,000
Notional amount of debt	1,200,000
Copper, Ounces	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Outstanding forward and future contracts (in ounces)	350,000
Notional amount of debt	1,200,000
Tin, Ounces	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Outstanding forward and future contracts (in ounces)	40
Notional amount of debt	$900,000

Derivative_Instruments_Effect_

Derivative Instruments (Effect of Derivative Instruments on Operations) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'	'
Gain Loss on Derivative Instruments Including Interest Income or Expense), Net, Pretax	$3,395	$2,582	$418
Cost of goods sold | Realized and Unrealized (Loss) Gain on Derivatives | Commodity contracts	'	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'	'
Gain Loss on Derivative Instruments Including Interest Income or Expense), Net, Pretax	2,528	0	0
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument	'	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'	'
Gain Loss on Derivative Instruments Including Interest Income or Expense), Net, Pretax	867	2,582	418
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Realized and Unrealized (Loss) Gain on Derivatives | Commodity contracts	'	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'	'
Gain Loss on Derivative Instruments Including Interest Income or Expense), Net, Pretax	1,988	522	-1,236
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Realized and Unrealized (Loss) Gain on Derivatives | Interest rate swap agreements	'	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'	'
Gain Loss on Derivative Instruments Including Interest Income or Expense), Net, Pretax	-328	0	0
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Realized and Unrealized (Loss) Gain on Derivatives | Derivative features of Subordinated Notes	'	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'	'
Gain Loss on Derivative Instruments Including Interest Income or Expense), Net, Pretax	-793	2,060	1,654
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments | Commodity contracts	'	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'	'
Gain Loss on Derivative Instruments Including Interest Income or Expense), Net, Pretax	$2,528	$0	$0

Derivative_Instruments_Fair_Va

Derivative Instruments (Fair Value of Derivative Instruments in the Balance Sheet) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'
Total derivatives	$1,406	$893
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'
Total derivatives	-372	893
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Prepaid and other current assets | Commodity contracts	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'
Total derivatives	1,778	0
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments | Commodity contracts	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'
Total derivatives	1,778	0
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | (Accrued liabilities)/Prepaid and other current assets | Commodity contracts	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'
Total derivatives	-158	100
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Other liabilities | Interest rate swap agreements	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'
Total derivatives	-214	0
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Long-term debt and long-term debt - related party | Derivative features of Subordinated Notes	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'
Total derivatives	$0	$793

Pensions_and_Other_PostRetirem2

Pensions and Other Post-Retirement Benefits (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Unfunded commitment for additional capital	$39,000,000	'	'
Expected required benefits 2014	24,300,000	'	'
Expected required benefits 2015	21,700,000	'	'
Expected required benefits 2016	17,100,000	'	'
Expected required benefits 2017	15,800,000	'	'
Expected required benefits 2018	13,900,000	'	'
Expected required benefits, Thereafter	27,600,000	'	'
Maximum annual contribution per employee (as a percent)	6.00%	'	'
Employer matching contribution (as a percent)	50.00%	'	'
Expense for Company's matching contribution	1,400,000	1,800,000	2,000,000
Minimum	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Maximum annual contribution per employee (as a percent)	1.00%	'	'
Maximum	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Maximum annual contribution per employee (as a percent)	75.00%	'	'
Other Pension Plans, Defined Benefit	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	19,400,000	22,600,000	'
Pension Benefits	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	353,973,000	330,471,000	346,408,000
Amortization period for pension plan actuarial gains (losses) (in years)	'21 years	'10 years	'10 years
Amount of actuarial losses included in accumulated other comprehensive loss that is expected to be recognized in net periodic benefit cost	7,700,000	'	'
Amount of prior service cost included in accumulated other comprehensive loss that is expected to be recognized in net periodic benefit cost	0	'	'
Accumulated benefit obligation for all defined benefit pension plans	497,540,000	547,456,000	532,619,000
Expected required benefits 2014	34,813,000	'	'
Expected required benefits 2015	34,640,000	'	'
Expected required benefits 2016	34,456,000	'	'
Expected required benefits 2017	34,247,000	'	'
Expected required benefits 2018	34,018,000	'	'
Expected required benefits, Thereafter	163,182,000	'	'
Benefits paid	34,495,000	36,058,000	'
Other Post-Retirement Benefits	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	0
Amount of actuarial losses included in accumulated other comprehensive loss that is expected to be recognized in net periodic benefit cost	0	'	'
Amount of prior service cost included in accumulated other comprehensive loss that is expected to be recognized in net periodic benefit cost	-100,000	'	'
Accumulated benefit obligation for all defined benefit pension plans	1,084,000	4,208,000	4,092,000
Expected required benefits 2014	111,000	'	'
Expected required benefits 2015	118,000	'	'
Expected required benefits 2016	112,000	'	'
Expected required benefits 2017	100,000	'	'
Expected required benefits 2018	94,000	'	'
Expected required benefits, Thereafter	366,000	'	'
Benefits paid	$317,000	$206,000	'

Pensions_and_Other_PostRetirem3

Pensions and Other Post-Retirement Benefits (Components of Pension Expense and Other Post-Retirement Benefit Expense) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Pension Benefits	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Service cost	$0	$0	$218
Interest cost	18,594	21,651	22,553
Expected return on plan assets	-23,964	-27,005	-27,249
Amortization of prior service cost	32	44	63
Amortization of actuarial loss	10,680	8,623	10,772
Total	5,342	3,313	6,357
Other Post-Retirement Benefits	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Service cost	0	0	0
Interest cost	98	163	171
Expected return on plan assets	0	0	0
Amortization of prior service cost	0	0	0
Amortization of actuarial loss	8	86	41
Total	$106	$249	$212

Pensions_and_Other_PostRetirem4

Pensions and Other Post-Retirement Benefits (Actuarial Assumptions) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Pension Benefits	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Expected return on assets (as a percent)	7.50%	8.00%	8.00%
Pension Benefits | WHX Pension Plan	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Discount rates (as a percent)	3.50%	4.15%	4.95%
Pension Benefits | Bear Plan	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Discount rates (as a percent)	4.00%	4.55%	5.50%
Other Post-Retirement Benefits	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Discount rates (as a percent)	3.65%	4.20%	5.10%
Other Post-Retirement Benefits | Other Post-Retirement Benefits	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Health care cost trend rate - initial (as a percent)	7.25%	7.50%	7.50%
Health care cost trend rate - ultimate (as a percent)	5.00%	5.00%	5.00%
Year ultimate reached	'2022	'2022	'2016

Pensions_and_Other_PostRetirem5

Pensions and Other Post-Retirement Benefits (Reconciliation of the Funded Status) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Pension Benefits	'	'	'
Change in benefit obligation:	'	'	'
Benefit obligation at January 1	$547,456	$532,619	'
Service cost	0	0	218
Interest cost	18,594	21,651	22,553
Actuarial (gain) loss	-34,739	36,227	'
Participant contributions	0	0	'
Benefits paid	-34,495	-36,058	'
Plan change	0	0	'
Insurance contract termination	0	-6,983	'
Transfer from Canfield Salaried SEPP	724	0	'
Benefit obligation at December 31	497,540	547,456	532,619
Change in plan assets:	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets at January 1	330,471	346,408	'
Actual returns on plan assets	43,924	10,924	'
Participant contributions	0	0	'
Benefits paid	-34,495	-36,058	'
Company contributions	13,349	16,180	'
Transfer from Canfield Salaried SEPP	724	0	'
Fair value of plan assets at December 31	353,973	330,471	346,408
Funded status	-143,567	-216,985	'
ABO at January 1	547,456	532,619	'
ABO at December 31	497,540	547,456	532,619
Amounts recognized on the consolidated balance sheet:	'	'	'
Current liability	0	0	'
Noncurrent liability	-143,567	-216,985	'
Total	-143,567	-216,985	'
Other Post-Retirement Benefits	'	'	'
Change in benefit obligation:	'	'	'
Benefit obligation at January 1	4,208	4,092	'
Service cost	0	0	0
Interest cost	98	163	171
Actuarial (gain) loss	-1,403	150	'
Participant contributions	4	9	'
Benefits paid	-317	-206	'
Plan change	-1,506	0	'
Insurance contract termination	0	0	'
Transfer from Canfield Salaried SEPP	0	0	'
Benefit obligation at December 31	1,084	4,208	4,092
Change in plan assets:	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets at January 1	0	0	'
Actual returns on plan assets	0	0	'
Participant contributions	4	9	'
Benefits paid	-317	-206	'
Company contributions	313	197	'
Transfer from Canfield Salaried SEPP	0	0	'
Fair value of plan assets at December 31	0	0	0
Funded status	-1,084	-4,208	'
ABO at January 1	4,208	4,092	'
ABO at December 31	1,084	4,208	4,092
Amounts recognized on the consolidated balance sheet:	'	'	'
Current liability	-111	-211	'
Noncurrent liability	-973	-3,997	'
Total	($1,084)	($4,208)	'

Pensions_and_Other_PostRetirem6

Pensions and Other Post-Retirement Benefits (Weighted Average Assumptions) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Pension Benefits | WHX Pension Plan	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Discount rates (as a percent)	4.40%	3.50%
Pension Benefits | Bear Plan	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Discount rates (as a percent)	4.95%	4.00%
Other Post-Retirement Benefits	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Discount rates (as a percent)	4.10%	3.65%
Other Post-Retirement Benefits | Other Postretirement Benefit Expense Assumption	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Health care cost trend rate - initial (as a percent)	7.25%	7.25%
Health care cost trend rate - ultimate (as a percent)	5.00%	5.00%
Year ultimate reached	'2022	'2022

Pensions_and_Other_PostRetirem7

Pensions and Other Post-Retirement Benefits (Pretax Amounts Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Pension Benefits	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Prior service cost (credit)	$0	$32
Net actuarial loss	203,627	269,005
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	203,627	269,037
Other Post-Retirement Benefits	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Prior service cost (credit)	-1,506	0
Net actuarial loss	440	1,851
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	($1,066)	$1,851

Pensions_and_Other_PostRetirem8

Pensions and Other Post-Retirement Benefits (Other Changes Recognized in Comprehensive Income) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Pension Benefits	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Current year actuarial gain (loss)	$54,698	($52,305)	($93,031)
Amortization of actuarial loss	10,680	8,623	10,772
Current year prior service credit	0	0	0
Amortization of prior service cost	32	44	62
Total recognized in comprehensive income (loss)	65,410	-43,638	-82,197
Other Post-Retirement Benefits	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Current year actuarial gain (loss)	1,403	-150	-649
Amortization of actuarial loss	8	86	41
Current year prior service credit	1,506	0	0
Amortization of prior service cost	0	0	0
Total recognized in comprehensive income (loss)	$2,917	($64)	($608)

Pensions_and_Other_PostRetirem9

Pensions and Other Post-Retirement Benefits (Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Pension Benefits	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Projected benefit obligation	$497,540	$547,456	$532,619
Accumulated benefit obligation	497,540	547,456	532,619
Fair value of plan assets	353,973	330,471	346,408
Other Post-Retirement Benefits	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Projected benefit obligation	1,084	4,208	4,092
Accumulated benefit obligation	1,084	4,208	4,092
Fair value of plan assets	$0	$0	$0

Recovered_Sheet1

Pensions and Other Post-Retirement Benefits (WHX/Bear Pension Plan Assets) (Details) (Pension Benefits, USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	$353,973		$330,471		$346,408
U.S. large cap	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	27,985		21,115		'
U.S. large cap | Level 1	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	27,389		20,572		'
U.S. large cap | Level 2	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	596		543		'
U.S. large cap | Level 3	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	0		0		593
U.S. mid-cap growth	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	62,477		36,274		'
U.S. mid-cap growth | Level 1	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	62,477		36,065		'
U.S. mid-cap growth | Level 2	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	0		0		'
U.S. mid-cap growth | Level 3	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	0		209		0
U.S. small-cap value	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	16,491		15,433		'
U.S. small-cap value | Level 1	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	14,460		15,295		'
U.S. small-cap value | Level 2	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	2,031		138		'
U.S. small-cap value | Level 3	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	0		0		'
International large cap value	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	16,355		16,234		'
International large cap value | Level 1	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	16,355		16,118		'
International large cap value | Level 2	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	0		116		'
International large cap value | Level 3	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	0		0		'
Equity contracts	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	96		308		'
Equity contracts | Level 1	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	96		308		'
Equity contracts | Level 2	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	0		0		'
Equity contracts | Level 3	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	0		0		'
Preferred stock	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	'		2,546		'
Preferred stock | Level 1	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	'		530		'
Preferred stock | Level 2	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	'		2,016		'
Preferred stock | Level 3	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	'		0		'
Corporate bonds and loans	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	63,941		52,015		'
Corporate bonds and loans | Level 1	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	33		415		'
Corporate bonds and loans | Level 2	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	63,405		51,052		'
Corporate bonds and loans | Level 3	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	503		548		0
Common trust funds	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	98,610	[1]	68,830	[1]	'
Common trust funds | Level 1	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	0	[1]	0	[1]	'
Common trust funds | Level 2	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	98,610	[1]	68,830	[1]	'
Common trust funds | Level 3	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	0	[1]	0	[1]	'
Fund of funds	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	41,898	[2]	37,142	[2]	'
Fund of funds | Level 1	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	0	[2]	0	[2]	'
Fund of funds | Level 2	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	41,898	[2]	37,142	[2]	'
Fund of funds | Level 3	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	0	[2]	0	[2]	'
Total fair value including futures contracts	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	327,853		249,897		'
Total fair value including futures contracts | Level 1	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	120,810		89,303		'
Total fair value including futures contracts | Level 2	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	206,540		159,837		'
Total fair value including futures contracts | Level 3	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	503		757		'
Shorts	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	-63,714		-52,670		'
Shorts | Level 1	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	-62,776		-58,148		'
Shorts | Level 2	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	-938		5,478		'
Shorts | Level 3	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	0		0		'
Total	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	264,139		197,227		'
Total | Level 1	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	58,034		31,155		'
Total | Level 2	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	205,602		165,315		'
Total | Level 3	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	503		757		'
Cash and cash equivalents	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	94,130		133,590		'
Net payables	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	($4,296)		($346)		'
[1]	Common trust funds are comprised of shares or units in commingled funds that are not publicly traded. The underlying assets in these funds are primarily publicly traded equity securities, fixed income securities and commodity-related securities and are valued at their Net Asset Values ("NAV") that are calculated by the investment manager or sponsor of the fund.
[2]	Fund of funds consist of fund-of-fund LLC or commingled fund structures. The underlying assets in these funds are primarily publicly traded equity securities, fixed income securities and commodity-related securities. The LLCs are valued based on NAVs calculated by the fund and are not publicly available.

Recovered_Sheet2

Pensions and Other Post-Retirement Benefits (Fair Value WHX/Bear Pension Plan Assets, Significant Unobservable Inputs) (Details) (Pension Benefits, USD $)

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

In Thousands, unless otherwise specified

U.S. large cap

U.S. large cap

U.S. large cap

U.S. large cap

U.S. mid-cap growth

U.S. mid-cap growth

U.S. mid-cap growth

U.S. mid-cap growth

Corporate bonds and loans

Corporate bonds and loans

Corporate bonds and loans

Corporate bonds and loans

Level 3

Level 3

Level 3

Level 3

Level 3

Level 3

Change in plan assets:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Fair value of plan assets at January 1

$353,973

$330,471

$346,408

$27,985

$21,115

$0

$593

$62,477

$36,274

$209

$0

$63,941

$52,015

$548

$0

Transfers into Level 3

'

'

'

'

'

0

0

'

'

0

0

'

'

0

0

Transfers out of Level 3

'

'

'

'

'

0

0

'

'

0

0

'

'

0

0

Gains or losses included in changes in net assets

'

'

'

'

'

0

673

'

'

23

145

'

'

85

11

Purchases

'

'

'

'

'

0

0

'

'

0

0

'

'

0

547

Issuances

'

'

'

'

'

0

0

'

'

0

64

'

'

0

0

Sales

'

'

'

'

'

0

-1,202

'

'

-232

0

'

'

-130

-10

Settlements

'

'

'

'

'

0

-64

'

'

0

0

'

'

0

0

Fair value of plan assets at December 31

$353,973

$330,471

$346,408

$27,985

$21,115

$0

$0

$62,477

$36,274

$0

$209

$63,941

$52,015

$503

$548

Recovered_Sheet3

Pensions and Other Post-Retirement Benefits (Assets with Fair Value Estimated Using NAV per share) (Details) (Pension Benefits, USD $)

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

In Thousands, unless otherwise specified

Fund of funds

Fund of funds

Common trust funds

Common trust funds

Equity long/short hedge funds, Quarterly

Equity long/short hedge funds, Quarterly

Fund of fund composites, Quarterly

Fund of fund composites, Quarterly

Equity long/short hedge funds Annually

Event driven hedge funds, Annually

Event driven hedge funds, Annually

Event driven hedge funds, Monthly

Event driven hedge funds, Monthly

Separately managed fund, Monthly

Separately managed fund, Monthly

Separately managed fund, Quarterly

Separately managed fund, Quarterly

Fund of funds

Fund of funds

Fund of funds

Fund of funds

Fund of funds

Common trust funds

Common trust funds

Common trust funds

Common trust funds

Separately managed fund

Separately managed fund

Separately managed fund

Separately managed fund

Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Fair Value December 31

$353,973

$330,471

$346,408

$41,898

[1]

$37,142

[1]

$98,610

[2]

$68,830

[2]

$5,707

$4,862

$36,191

$32,280

$12,635

$69,255

$55,853

$16,720

$12,977

$34,991

$33,324

$77,093

$64,490

Redemption frequency

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'Quarterly

'Quarterly

'Quarterly

'Quarterly

'Annually

'Annually

'Annually

'Monthly

'Monthly

'Monthly

'Monthly

'Quarterly

'Quarterly

Redemption Notice Period

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'45 day notice

'45 day notice

'45 day notice

'45 day notice

'90 day notice

'45 day notice

'45 day notice

'90 day notice

'90 day notice

'30 day notice

'30 day notice

'45 day notice

'45 day notice

[1]

Fund of funds consist of fund-of-fund LLC or commingled fund structures. The underlying assets in these funds are primarily publicly traded equity securities, fixed income securities and commodity-related securities. The LLCs are valued based on NAVs calculated by the fund and are not publicly available.

[2]

Common trust funds are comprised of shares or units in commingled funds that are not publicly traded. The underlying assets in these funds are primarily publicly traded equity securities, fixed income securities and commodity-related securities and are valued at their Net Asset Values ("NAV") that are calculated by the investment manager or sponsor of the fund.

Recovered_Sheet4

Pensions and Other Post-Retirement Benefits (Estimated Future Benefit Payments) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'
2014	$24,300
2015	21,700
2016	17,100
2017	15,800
2018	13,900
2019- 2023	27,600
Pension Benefits	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'
2014	34,813
2015	34,640
2016	34,456
2017	34,247
2018	34,018
2019- 2023	163,182
Other Post-Retirement Benefits	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'
2014	111
2015	118
2016	112
2017	100
2018	94
2019- 2023	$366

Stockholders_Equity_Authorized

Stockholders' Equity (Authorized and Outstanding Shares) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended		0 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Jun. 27, 2013	29-May-13	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
			Common Stock	Common Stock	Common Stock	Treasury Stock
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Authorized repurchase amount	'	'	$8,000,000	$2,000,000	'	'
Stock repurchased during the period, shares	'	'	'	'	458,131	'
Stock repurchased during the period, value	$9,796,000	'	'	'	'	$9,796,000
Capital Stock, Authorized (in shares)	185,000,000	'	'	'	'	'
Common stock - shares authorized (in shares)	180,000,000	180,000,000	'	'	'	'
Preferred stock - shares authorized (in shares)	5,000,000	'	'	'	'	'
Common stock - issued (in shares)	12,985,840	13,140,004	'	'	'	'

Stockholders_Equity_Other_Comp

Stockholders' Equity (Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Net of Tax) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	($226,168,000)	'	'
Current period income	44,441,000	'	'
Reclassification adjustments, net of tax	-204,000	'	'
Balance at end of period	-181,931,000	-226,168,000	'
Income tax benefits (losses) recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss	-28,700,000	20,500,000	24,200,000
Unrealized (Loss) Gain on Marketable Equity Securities	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	-4,072,000	'	'
Current period income	1,710,000	'	'
Reclassification adjustments, net of tax	2,362,000	'	'
Balance at end of period	0	'	'
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	2,481,000	'	'
Current period income	56,000	'	'
Reclassification adjustments, net of tax	-2,566,000	'	'
Balance at end of period	-29,000	'	'
Change in Net Pension and Other Benefit Obligations	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	-224,577,000	'	'
Current period income	42,675,000	'	'
Reclassification adjustments, net of tax	0	'	'
Balance at end of period	($181,902,000)	'	'

StockBased_Compensation_Narrat

Stock-Based Compensation (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Jul. 06, 2007

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 31, 2011

31-May-12

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Sep. 30, 2013

22-May-12

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2012

Mar. 31, 2011

Mar. 31, 2011

Jun. 17, 2011

Mar. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Mar. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

21-May-13

Restricted Stock

2007 Incentive Stock Plan

2007 Incentive Stock Plan

2007 Incentive Stock Plan

2007 Incentive Stock Plan

2007 Incentive Stock Plan

2007 Incentive Stock Plan

2007 Incentive Stock Plan

2007 Incentive Stock Plan

2007 Incentive Stock Plan

2007 Incentive Stock Plan

2007 Incentive Stock Plan

2007 Incentive Stock Plan

2007 Incentive Stock Plan

2007 Incentive Stock Plan

2007 Incentive Stock Plan

2007 Incentive Stock Plan

2007 Incentive Stock Plan

2007 Incentive Stock Plan

2007 Incentive Stock Plan

2007 Incentive Stock Plan

Restricted Stock

Restricted Stock

Restricted Stock

Restricted Stock

Restricted Stock

Restricted Stock

Restricted Stock

Restricted Stock

Restricted Stock

Restricted Stock

Restricted Stock

Restricted Stock

Restricted Stock

Restricted Stock

Restricted Stock

Restricted Stock

Restricted Stock

Restricted Stock

Common Stock

Employees

Directors

Directors Other than the Chairman and Vice Chairman

Chairman and Vice Chairman

Directors

Directors

Directors

Directors

Employees

Employees

Employees

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of shares approved for grant, restricted shares (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,075,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,650,000

Granted

'

'

'

'

'

495,600

319,788

319,788

525,400

'

'

'

'

'

1,000

100,000

1,000

205,000

162,000

252,000

289,600

157,788

273,400

'

Award vesting tranche (as a percent)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

25.00%

75.00%

'

'

Award vesting period (in years)

'

'

'

'3 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'3 years

'1 year

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Reduced for income tax obligations (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,615

20,494

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0

0

'

2,615

20,494

'

Non-cash stock based compensation

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$4,900,000

$4,500,000

$3,100,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Unearned compensation expense, restricted shares

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,600,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Estimated forfeiture rate, restricted shares (as a percent)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

5.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Contractual term (in years)

'

'

'

'

'10 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Shares reserved for future issuance (in shares)

'

'

'

'

767,389

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Bonus multiplier

'

'

10,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock price for bonus calculation (in dollars per share)

'

'

$90

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share-based compensation

$200,000

$100,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

StockBased_Compensation_Restri

Stock-Based Compensation (Restricted Stock Activity) (Details) (2007 Incentive Stock Plan, Restricted Stock)	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended		1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended		0 Months Ended	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2011	31-May-12	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Jun. 17, 2011	Mar. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
					Employees	Employees	Employees	Directors	Directors	Directors	Directors
Total	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	'	'	961,440	467,934	'	503,440	261,934	'	'	458,000	206,000
Granted	495,600	319,788	319,788	525,400	289,600	157,788	273,400	1,000	205,000	162,000	252,000
Forfeited	'	'	-13,202	-11,400	'	-13,202	-11,400	'	'	0	0
Reduced for income tax obligations	'	'	-2,615	-20,494	'	-2,615	-20,494	'	'	0	0
Balance at end of period	'	'	1,265,411	961,440	'	645,411	503,440	'	'	620,000	458,000
Vested (in shares)	'	'	728,124	'	'	270,124	'	'	'	458,000	'
Non-vested (in shares)	'	'	537,287	'	'	375,287	'	'	'	162,000	'

StockBased_Compensation_Stock_

Stock-Based Compensation (Stock option activity) (Details) (2007 Incentive Stock Plan, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
2007 Incentive Stock Plan	'	'
Shares	'	'
Outstanding options at beginning of period	49	'
Granted	0	'
Exercised	0	'
Forfeited or expired	-7	'
Outstanding options at end of period	42	49
Exercisable at December 31, 2013	42	'
Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in Dollars per share)	'	'
Outstanding options at beginning of period	$90	'
Granted	$0	'
Exercised	$0	'
Forfeited or expired	$90	'
Outstanding options at end of period	$90	$90
Exercisable at December 31, 2013	$90	'
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)	'	'
Outstanding options at beginning of period	'2 years 4 months 2 days	'3 years 4 months 2 days
Outstanding options at end of period	'2 years 4 months 2 days	'3 years 4 months 2 days
Exercisable at December 31, 2013	'2 years 4 months 2 days	'
Outstanding at end of period	$0	$0
Exercisable at end of period	$0	'

Income_Taxes_Income_Before_Inc

Income Taxes (Income Before Income Taxes) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Domestic	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$36,256	$28,717	$20,183
Foreign	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,893	6,497	8,145
Income from continuing operations before tax and equity investment	$4,278	$14,004	$17,687	$2,180	$3,818	$7,331	$16,546	$7,519	$38,149	$35,214	$28,328

Income_Taxes_Provision_for_Ben

Income Taxes (Provision for (Benefit From) Income Taxes) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Current	'	'	'
Domestic	$2,591	$2,662	$1,564
Foreign	1,123	1,224	1,287
Total income taxes, current	3,714	3,886	2,851
Deferred	'	'	'
Domestic	12,757	9,071	-109,309
Foreign	-443	108	370
Total income taxes, deferred	12,314	9,179	-108,939
Total income tax provision (benefit)	$16,028	$13,065	($106,088)

Income_Taxes_Schedule_of_Defer

Income Taxes (Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current Deferred Income Tax Items:	'	'
Inventories	$2,426	$3,503
Environmental costs	1,220	2,377
Net operating loss carryforwards	13,323	14,530
Accrued liabilities	3,046	3,264
Other items, net	913	1,023
Current deferred income tax assets before valuation allowance	20,928	24,697
Valuation allowance	-421	-324
Deferred income tax assets - current	20,507	24,373
Foreign	-433	-1,022
Deferred income tax liabilities - current	-433	-1,022
Non-Current Deferred Income Tax Items:	'	'
Post-retirement and post-employment employee benefits	904	1,817
Net operating loss carryforwards	27,198	45,794
Pension liability	53,624	81,392
Impairment of long-lived assets	2,636	2,528
Minimum tax credit carryforwards	3,265	2,287
Miscellaneous other	1,953	4,397
Non-current deferred income tax assets before valuation allowance	89,580	138,215
Valuation allowance	-1,729	-1,814
Non-current deferred income tax assets	87,851	136,401
Property, plant and equipment	-13,558	-13,802
Intangible assets	-9,378	-7,526
Undistributed foreign earnings	-568	-534
Other items, net	-4,661	-1,971
Non-current deferred income tax liabilities	-28,165	-23,833
Deferred income tax assets	$59,686	$112,568

Income_Taxes_Deferred_Tax_Asse

Income Taxes (Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Deferred tax assets, valuation allowance	'	'	'	$116,700,000
Deferred tax assets, tax credit carryforwards	3,300,000	'	'	'
Utilization of net operating losses	53,000,000	'	'	'
Accumulated undistributed earnings of non-U.S. corporate subsidiaries	14,100,000	'	'	'
Additional taxes to be provided if undistributed foreign earnings are remitted	4,900,000	'	'	'
Income taxes paid	7,519,000	4,191,000	4,344,000	'
Net current income taxes payable	0	'	'	'
Net income taxes receivable	'	200,000	'	'
Federal	'	'	'	'
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Deferred Tax Assets, net operating losses	40,500,000	'	'	'
Net operating losses	106,900,000	'	'	'
Reduction of net operating losses	31,000,000	'	'	'
Reduction of net operating losses, tax	10,800,000	'	'	'
State and Local Jurisdiction	'	'	'	'
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Deferred Tax Assets, net operating losses	$106,900,000	'	'	'

Income_Taxes_Effective_Income_

Income Taxes (Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Income from continuing operations before tax and equity investment	$4,278,000	$14,004,000	$17,687,000	$2,180,000	$3,818,000	$7,331,000	$16,546,000	$7,519,000	$38,149,000	$35,214,000	$28,328,000
Tax provision at statutory rate	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	13,352,000	12,325,000	9,915,000
Foreign dividend income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	0	929,000
State income tax, net of federal effect	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	2,455,000	2,396,000	919,000
Net increase (decrease) in valuation allowance	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	12,000	-454,000	-116,689,000
(Decrease) increase in liability for uncertain tax positions	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-679,000	8,000	43,000
Net effect of foreign tax rate and tax holidays	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	17,000	-942,000	-369,000
Other items, net	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	871,000	-268,000	-836,000
Total income tax provision (benefit)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	16,028,000	13,065,000	-106,088,000
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate if recognized	$1,300,000	'	'	'	$2,300,000	'	'	'	$1,300,000	$2,300,000	'

Income_Taxes_Changes_in_the_Am

Income Taxes (Changes in the Amount of Unrecognized Tax Benefits and Income Tax Examination) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]	'	'
Beginning balance	$2,273,000	$2,306,000
Additions for tax positions related to current year	404,000	368,000
Additions due to interest accrued	80,000	100,000
Payments	-250,000	-42,000
Settlements	-640,000	0
Due to lapsed statutes of limitations	-488,000	-484,000
Other	-35,000	25,000
Ending balance	1,344,000	2,273,000
Unrecognized tax benefits, interest on income taxes accrued	100,000	400,000
Significant change in unrecognized tax benefits is reasonably possible, amount of unrecorded benefit	300,000	'
Massachusetts	'	'
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]	'	'
Income tax settlement	300,000	'
Assessment issued by tax authority	$300,000	'

Earnings_Per_Share_Details

Earnings Per Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Income from continuing operations, net of tax	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$28,127	$22,149	$134,416
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding (in shares)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	13,251	13,032	12,555
Income from continuing operations, net of tax, per share	$0.96	$0.51	$0.76	($0.11)	$0.24	$0.36	$0.74	$0.35	$2.12	$1.70	$10.71
Net income from discontinued operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	13,902	4,332	4,359
Discontinued operations, net of tax, per share	($0.01)	$0.22	$0.12	$0.72	$0.10	$0.09	$0.09	$0.05	$1.05	$0.33	$0.34
Net income	$12,497	$9,643	$11,872	$8,017	$4,503	$5,930	$10,952	$5,096	$42,029	$26,481	$138,775
Net income per share	$0.95	$0.73	$0.88	$0.61	$0.34	$0.45	$0.83	$0.40	$3.17	$2.03	$11.05

Earnings_Per_Share_Narrative_D

Earnings Per Share (Narrative) (Details) (Stock Options)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Stock Options	'
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]	'
Outstanding options excluded from diluted earnings per share calculation due to anti-dilutive effect	42,200

Fair_Value_Measurements_Assets

Fair Value Measurements (Assets and Liabilities that are Measured at Fair Value) (Details) (Recurring, USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Total	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investment in associated company	$33,983	$17,229
Total | Commodity contracts	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Precious metal and commodity inventories recorded at fair value	14,766	'
Derivative contracts	1,620	100
Total | Derivative features of Subordinated Notes	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative contracts	-214	793
Level 1	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investment in associated company	33,983	17,229
Level 1 | Commodity contracts	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Precious metal and commodity inventories recorded at fair value	14,766	'
Derivative contracts	1,620	127
Level 1 | Derivative features of Subordinated Notes	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative contracts	0	0
Level 2	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investment in associated company	0	0
Level 2 | Commodity contracts	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Precious metal and commodity inventories recorded at fair value	0	'
Derivative contracts	0	-27
Level 2 | Derivative features of Subordinated Notes	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative contracts	-214	0
Level 3	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Investment in associated company	0	0
Level 3 | Commodity contracts	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Precious metal and commodity inventories recorded at fair value	0	'
Derivative contracts	0	0
Level 3 | Derivative features of Subordinated Notes	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative contracts	$0	$793

Fair_Value_Measurements_Fair_V

Fair Value Measurements (Fair Value Roll Forward) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	$793	($1,314)
Net income	-793	2,060
Other comprehensive income (loss)	0	0
Purchases	0	0
Issuances	0	0
Sales	0	0
Settlements	0	47
Net transfers into / (out of) Level 3	0	0
Balance at end of period	$0	$793

Fair_Value_Measurements_Narrat

Fair Value Measurements (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net income	($793,000)	$2,060,000	'
Long-lived assets, currently not in use	9,400,000	'	'
Asset impairment charge	0	0	700,000
Arlon	'	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'	'
Asset impairment charge	'	'	$700,000

Commitments_and_Contingencies_1

Commitments and Contingencies (Operating Lease Commitments) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
2014	$4,331
2015	3,060
2016	2,506
2017	1,938
2018	1,430
Thereafter	2,226
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due	$15,491

Commitments_and_Contingencies_2

Commitments and Contingencies (Operating Lease Commitments Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2008	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
	renewal_option
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Rent expense	'	$4.80	$4.20	$4.50
Gross proceeds	8.5	'	'	'
Operating lease term (in years)	'15 years	'	'	'
Number of renewal options (in number of renewal options)	2	'	'	'
Renewal option period (in years)	'5 years	'	'	'
Annual rental payments	0.6	'	'	'
Maximum increase per year (as a percent)	5.00%	'	'	'
Deferred gain	$1.80	$1.20	$1.40	'
Deferred gain amortization period (in years)	'15 years	'	'	'

Commitments_and_Contingencies_3

Commitments and Contingencies (Environmental Matters) (Details) (USD $)

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Former Owner / Operator

Superfund

Sold Parcel

Costs

Costs

Costs

Costs

Costs

Costs

Industrial Property

potentially_responsible_party

Former Owner / Operator

Second Joint Venture Partner of Former Owner / Operator

First Joint Venture Partner of Former Owner / Operator

HHEM and H&H

HHEM

Environmetal Remediation Obligations [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Accrued environmental liabilities

$3,213,000

$6,346,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Recorded third-party environmental recoveries receivable

1,100,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Remediation cost, expected cost

'

'

'

'

100,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

200,000

Ownership responsibility for site investigation and remediation costs (as a percent)

'

'

75.00%

'

'

'

'

37.50%

37.50%

25.00%

'

'

Environmental loss contingencies, payments

'

'

'

2,200,000

'

1,000,000

'

'

'

1,000,000

'

'

Environmental remediation expense

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,600,000

'

'

'

1,200,000

'

Environmental loss contingencies, number of potentially responsible parties

'

'

'

13

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Accrual for environmental loss contingencies

'

'

'

$200,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Related_Party_Transactions_Det

Related Party Transactions (Details) (USD $)

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 26, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Oct. 14, 2011

Oct. 15, 2010

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Mar. 26, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Oct. 14, 2011

Jan. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Subordinated Notes

Subordinated Notes

Subordinated Notes

Subordinated Notes

Subordinated Notes

SPH Group Holding LLC

SPH Group Holding LLC

SPH Group Holding LLC

SPH Group Holding LLC

Steel Partner Holdings

SPII Liquidating Trust

Affiliated Entity

Affiliated Entity

Affiliated Entity

Affiliated Entity

Affiliated Entity

Affiliated Entity

Affiliated Entity

Affiliated Entity

Affiliated Entity

Subordinated Notes

Subordinated Notes

Subordinated Notes

Subordinated Notes

Employees

Executive Services Fee

Executive Services Fee

Executive Services Fee

Corporate Services Fee

Corporate Services Fee

Related Party Transaction [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Common stock - issued (in shares)

12,985,840

13,140,004

'

'

'

'

'

7,228,735

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Managing member ownership interest (as a percent)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

56.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Accrued interest due to related party

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$600,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Subordinated notes due to related party

0

19,916,000

0

'

19,916,000

25,000,000

72,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

12,500,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Repayments of subordinated debt

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

13,200,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Redemption amount (as a percent)

'

'

'

112.60%

'

102.80%

'

'

'

'

'

'

102.80%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Related party management services fees and other arrangements

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,950,000

8,890,000

10,980,000

'

1,740,000

1,740,000

1,740,000

7,150,000

9,240,000

Related Party Management Services Fees and Other Arrangements, Reduction

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

200,000

'

'

2,000,000

'

'

'

'

Number of employees transferred (in employees)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

37

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Sublease rentals

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

400,000

'

'

'

'

'

Sales revenue for account services

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,300,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Repayments of Notes Payable

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

25,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term Debt

$156,887,000

[1]

$137,750,000

$0

'

$9,440,000

'

'

'

'

'

$21,600,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

[1]

Assumes repayment of the Revolving Facility on its contractual maturity date.

Reportable_Segments_Details

Reportable Segments (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Jun. 30, 2013

Mar. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 30, 2012

Jun. 30, 2012

Mar. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales

$152,309,000

$171,874,000

$182,084,000

$148,957,000

$126,084,000

$144,628,000

$164,430,000

$144,386,000

$655,224,000

$579,528,000

$579,764,000

Segment operating income:

5,536,000

16,249,000

17,964,000

11,201,000

7,056,000

12,855,000

19,397,000

10,482,000

50,950,000

49,790,000

45,538,000

Interest expense

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-13,705,000

-16,719,000

-16,268,000

Realized and unrealized gain on derivatives

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,195,000

2,582,000

418,000

Other expense

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-291,000

-439,000

-1,360,000

Income from continuing operations before tax and equity investment

4,278,000

14,004,000

17,687,000

2,180,000

3,818,000

7,331,000

16,546,000

7,519,000

38,149,000

35,214,000

28,328,000

Segment Reporting Information, Additional Information [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Gains resulting from liquidation of precious metal inventory valued at LIFO cost

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0

600,000

1,900,000

Operating Segments [Member]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment operating income:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

77,112,000

76,397,000

71,163,000

Joining Materials

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

195,187,000

174,621,000

190,607,000

Segment operating income:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

16,624,000

[1]

23,942,000

[1]

24,747,000

[1]

Segment Reporting Information, Additional Information [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Gains resulting from liquidation of precious metal inventory valued at LIFO cost

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

600,000

1,900,000

'

Tubing

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

91,002,000

80,849,000

76,676,000

Segment operating income:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

17,434,000

14,258,000

13,958,000

Building Materials

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

226,806,000

189,106,000

178,948,000

Segment operating income:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

27,789,000

22,172,000

19,883,000

Arlon

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

84,060,000

80,815,000

81,282,000

Segment operating income:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

10,769,000

[2]

11,594,000

[2]

8,348,000

[2]

Segment Reporting Information, Additional Information [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Asset impairment charge

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

700,000

'

Kasco

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

58,169,000

54,137,000

52,251,000

Segment operating income:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

4,496,000

4,431,000

4,227,000

Unallocated corporate expenses and non-operating units

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment operating income:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-20,895,000

-23,387,000

-19,318,000

Unallocated pension expense

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment operating income:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-5,342,000

-3,313,000

-6,357,000

Gain from asset dispositions

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment operating income:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$75,000

$93,000

$50,000

[1]

The results for the Joining Materials segment for 2012 and 2011 include gains of $0.6 million and $1.9 million, respectively, resulting from the liquidation of precious metal inventory valued at LIFO cost.

[2]

Segment operating income of the Arlon segment for 2011 includes an asset impairment charge of $0.7 million to write-down vacant land located in Rancho Cucamonga, California to fair value.

Reportable_Segments_Capital_Ex

Reportable Segments (Capital Expenditures, Depreciation and Total Assets) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Capital Expenditures	$16,226	$20,295	$12,046
Depreciation and Amortization	16,138	13,343	14,148
Total Assets	509,723	512,361	'
Joining Materials	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Capital Expenditures	3,135	2,951	1,574
Depreciation and Amortization	2,682	1,110	1,373
Total Assets	108,621	53,088	'
Tubing	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Capital Expenditures	3,679	5,157	2,882
Depreciation and Amortization	2,399	2,250	2,201
Total Assets	37,550	36,096	'
Building Materials	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Capital Expenditures	3,424	4,776	1,049
Depreciation and Amortization	4,600	4,132	4,049
Total Assets	134,320	121,392	'
Arlon	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Capital Expenditures	4,482	5,113	5,055
Depreciation and Amortization	4,211	3,828	4,041
Total Assets	71,046	66,255	'
Kasco	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Capital Expenditures	1,339	2,236	1,422
Depreciation and Amortization	2,095	1,920	2,199
Total Assets	23,612	25,215	'
Corporate and other	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Capital Expenditures	167	62	64
Depreciation and Amortization	151	103	285
Total Assets	133,923	178,204	'
Discontinued operations	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Total Assets	651	32,111	'
Inactive Properties	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Total Assets	$9,400	$8,200	'

Reportable_Segments_Revenues_D

Reportable Segments (Revenues) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net Sales	$655,224	$579,528	$579,764
Long-Lived Assets	100,290	89,687	'
United States	'	'	'
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net Sales	590,479	512,470	505,583
Long-Lived Assets	77,065	66,537	'
Foreign	'	'	'
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net Sales	64,745	67,058	74,181
Long-Lived Assets	$23,225	$23,150	'

Parent_Company_Condensed_Finan2

Parent Company Condensed Financial Information (Balance Sheets) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current Assets:	'	'	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$10,300	$15,301	$6,841	$8,762
Deferred income tax assets - current	20,507	24,373	'	'
Prepaid and other current assets	9,578	8,016	'	'
Total current assets	184,332	193,959	'	'
Deferred income tax assets	59,686	112,568	'	'
Investments in and advances to subsidiaries, net	33,983	17,229	'	'
Total assets	509,723	512,361	'	'
Current Liabilities:	'	'	'	'
Trade payables	34,823	29,530	'	'
Accrued liabilities	28,483	25,735	'	'
Total current liabilities	80,225	82,148	'	'
Accrued pension liability	143,705	217,141	'	'
Total liabilities	375,851	460,433	'	'
Commitments and Contingencies	'	'	'	'
Stockholders' Equity:	'	'	'	'
Common stock - $.01 par value; authorized 180,000 shares; issued 13,444 and 13,140 shares, respectively	134	131	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-181,931	-226,168	'	'
Additional paid-in capital	565,441	559,970	'	'
Treasury stock, at cost - 458 and 0 shares, respectively	-9,796	0	'	'
Accumulated deficit	-239,976	-282,005	'	'
Total stockholders' equity	133,872	51,928	58,998	-30,160
Liabilities and stockholders' equity	509,723	512,361	'	'
Parent	'	'	'	'
Current Assets:	'	'	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	1,853	735	1,511	2,973
Deferred income tax assets - current	4,062	8,231	'	'
Prepaid and other current assets	92	105	'	'
Total current assets	6,007	9,071	'	'
Notes receivable from Bairnco	4,627	4,627	'	'
Investments in Associates	33,983	17,229	'	'
Deferred income tax assets	64,088	102,221	'	'
Investments in and advances to subsidiaries, net	278,730	226,878	'	'
Total assets	387,435	360,026	'	'
Current Liabilities:	'	'	'	'
Trade payables	61	99	'	'
Accrued liabilities	718	648	'	'
Total current liabilities	779	747	'	'
Accrued interest - Handy & Harman	12,193	12,193	'	'
Notes payable to Handy & Harman	98,188	80,083	'	'
Accrued pension liability	142,403	215,075	'	'
Total liabilities	253,563	308,098	'	'
Commitments and Contingencies	'	'	'	'
Stockholders' Equity:	'	'	'	'
Common stock - $.01 par value; authorized 180,000 shares; issued 13,444 and 13,140 shares, respectively	134	131	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-181,931	-226,168	'	'
Additional paid-in capital	565,441	559,970	'	'
Treasury stock, at cost - 458 and 0 shares, respectively	-9,796	0	'	'
Accumulated deficit	-239,976	-282,005	'	'
Total stockholders' equity	133,872	51,928	'	'
Liabilities and stockholders' equity	$387,435	$360,026	'	'

Parent_Company_Condensed_Finan3

Parent Company Condensed Financial Information (Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income (Loss)) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Selling, general and administrative expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	($128,583)	($116,383)	($105,283)
Pension expense	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-5,342	-3,313	-6,357
Other:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Income from continuing operations before tax and equity investment	4,278	14,004	17,687	2,180	3,818	7,331	16,546	7,519	38,149	35,214	28,328
Tax benefit	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-16,028	-13,065	106,088
Gain from associated company, net of tax	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	6,006	0	0
Net income	12,497	9,643	11,872	8,017	4,503	5,930	10,952	5,096	42,029	26,481	138,775
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Changes in pension liability and post-retirement benefit obligations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	68,328	-43,702	-82,805
Tax effect of changes in pension liability and post-retirement benefit obligations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-25,653	14,455	27,211
Change in market value of securities	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	7,113	-14,948	7,835
Tax effect of change in market value of securities	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-3,041	6,054	-3,014
Foreign currency translation adjustments	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-2,510	362	-1,751
Other comprehensive income (loss)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	44,237	-37,779	-52,524
Comprehensive income (loss)	54,450	7,694	12,691	11,431	-27,411	9,551	1,617	4,945	86,266	-11,298	86,251
Parent	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Equity in income of subsidiaries, net of tax	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	44,275	35,498	40,044
Selling, general and administrative expenses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-7,790	-7,720	-5,883
Pension expense	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-5,206	-3,195	-6,316
Other:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Interest expense - Handy & Handy notes payable	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	-4,087	-2,889
Interest income - Bairnco notes receivable	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	560	491
Other income (expense)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	15	-3
Income from continuing operations before tax and equity investment	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	31,279	21,071	25,444
Tax benefit	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	4,744	5,410	113,331
Gain from associated company, net of tax	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	6,006	0	0
Net income	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	42,029	26,481	138,775
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Changes in pension liability and post-retirement benefit obligations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	68,328	-43,702	-82,805
Tax effect of changes in pension liability and post-retirement benefit obligations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-25,653	14,455	27,211
Change in market value of securities	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	7,113	-14,948	7,835
Tax effect of change in market value of securities	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-3,041	6,054	-3,014
Foreign currency translation adjustments	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-2,510	362	-1,751
Other comprehensive income (loss)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	44,237	-37,779	-52,524
Comprehensive income (loss)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$86,266	($11,298)	$86,251

Parent_Company_Condensed_Finan4

Parent Company Condensed Financial Information (Statement of Cash Flows) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Cash flows from operating activities:	'	'	'
Net income	$42,029	$26,481	$138,775
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used in operating activities:	'	'	'
Non-cash stock-based compensation	200	100	'
Non-cash gain from associated company	-6,006	0	0
Deferred income taxes	23,001	11,014	-105,669
Change in operating assets and liabilities:	'	'	'
Pension expense	5,342	3,313	6,357
Net cash provided by operating activities	49,163	58,439	21,554
Cash flows from investing activities:	'	'	'
Net cash used in investing activities	-36,875	-37,882	-14,284
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'	'
Purchases of treasury stock	-9,796	0	0
Net cash used in financing activities	-17,422	-12,230	-9,192
Net change for the year	-5,134	8,327	-1,922
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	15,301	6,841	8,762
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	10,300	15,301	6,841
Parent	'	'	'
Cash flows from operating activities:	'	'	'
Net income	42,029	26,481	138,775
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used in operating activities:	'	'	'
Equity in income of subsidiaries, net of tax	-44,275	-35,498	-40,044
Payment in kind interest expense - Handy & Harman	0	4,087	2,889
Interest income - Bairnco notes receivable	0	-560	-491
Non-cash stock-based compensation	4,860	4,476	2,837
Non-cash gain from associated company	-6,006	0	0
Deferred income taxes	-5,945	-5,410	-113,490
Change in operating assets and liabilities:	'	'	'
Advances from affiliates	0	0	-424
Pension payments - WHX Pension Plan	-13,106	-15,919	-15,235
Pension expense	5,206	3,195	6,316
Other current assets and liabilities	45	-1,047	-1,330
Net cash provided by operating activities	-17,192	-20,195	-20,197
Cash flows from investing activities:	'	'	'
Investments in marketable securities	0	-6,321	-18,021
Dividends from subsidiaries	10,000	6,321	18,021
Net cash used in investing activities	10,000	0	0
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'	'
Notes payable - Handy & Harman	18,106	19,419	18,735
Purchases of treasury stock	-9,796	0	0
Net cash used in financing activities	8,310	19,419	18,735
Net change for the year	1,118	-776	-1,462
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	735	1,511	2,973
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$1,853	$735	$1,511

Unaudited_Quarterly_Results_De

Unaudited Quarterly Results (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net sales	$152,309,000	$171,874,000	$182,084,000	$148,957,000	$126,084,000	$144,628,000	$164,430,000	$144,386,000	$655,224,000	$579,528,000	$579,764,000
Segment operating income:	5,536,000	16,249,000	17,964,000	11,201,000	7,056,000	12,855,000	19,397,000	10,482,000	50,950,000	49,790,000	45,538,000
Income from continuing operations before tax and equity investment	4,278,000	14,004,000	17,687,000	2,180,000	3,818,000	7,331,000	16,546,000	7,519,000	38,149,000	35,214,000	28,328,000
(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax	-204,000	2,904,000	1,661,000	9,541,000	1,312,000	1,205,000	1,230,000	585,000	-997,000	4,311,000	1,678,000
Net income	12,497,000	9,643,000	11,872,000	8,017,000	4,503,000	5,930,000	10,952,000	5,096,000	42,029,000	26,481,000	138,775,000
Comprehensive income (loss)	54,450,000	7,694,000	12,691,000	11,431,000	-27,411,000	9,551,000	1,617,000	4,945,000	86,266,000	-11,298,000	86,251,000
Basic and diluted income per share of common stock	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Income from continuing operations, net of tax, per share	$0.96	$0.51	$0.76	($0.11)	$0.24	$0.36	$0.74	$0.35	$2.12	$1.70	$10.71
Discontinued operations, net of tax, per share	($0.01)	$0.22	$0.12	$0.72	$0.10	$0.09	$0.09	$0.05	$1.05	$0.33	$0.34
Net income per share	$0.95	$0.73	$0.88	$0.61	$0.34	$0.45	$0.83	$0.40	$3.17	$2.03	$11.05
Other comprehensive income (loss) recorded primarily from unrealized actuarial gain (loss) associated with the Company's defined benefit pension plans	$41,800,000	'	'	'	($29,200,000)	'	'	'	'	'	'