Utopia KitchenUtensil Holder - Utensil Container - Utensil Crock - Flatware Caddy - Brushed Stainless Steel Cookware Cutlery Utensil Holder with Drain Holes

Q: what is used to finishb the stainless steel?

It is just Stainless Steel, there is no coating at all on it. Although it does have a brush finish to it.

Q: Could this be put in a built in counter to hold about 1/2 pound, is the lip large enough to suspend?

It will probably hold 1/2 lb, however the lip is only 1/8 inch. If you are a good carpenter & can use a caliper, you might be able to cut an exact hole.

Q: Where is this product manufactured?

Can't remember what the box said but it is a good product. I am very pleased.

Q: How strong is it, will it flex if you squeeze it around the top? (for a mini camping brazier project)

It does not flex. It is rigid. It is very small, arrived blotchy and discolored and very poor quality. I planned to use it for kitchen utensils but I'm just using it in garage for nails and screws. Not tall enough for kitchen utensils and not nice enough to display.