Russel Metals Inc. announced it expects second quarter earnings per share to be in the range of $0.85 to $1.00 per share, significantly exceeding previously provided earnings per share guidance of $0.50 to $0.65 per share.

Bud Siegel, President and CEO stated, "All of our business segments are substantially ahead of expectations and we have experienced stronger demand levels than were anticipated."

Russel Metals' second quarter financial results will be released on Thursday, July 22, 2004.

Russel Metals is one of the largest metals distribution companies in North America. It carries on business in three metals distribution segments: service center, energy sector and import/export, under various names including Russel Metals, A.J. Forsyth, Acier Leroux, Acier Loubier, Acier Richler, Armabec, Arrow Steel Processors, B&T Steel, Baldwin International, Comco Pipe and Supply, Drummond McCall, Ennisteel, Fedmet Tubulars, Leroux Steel, McCabe Steel, Megantic Metal, Metaux Russel, Milspec Industries, Poutrelles Delta, Pioneer Pipe, Russel Leroux, Russel Metals Williams Bahcall, Spartan Steel Products, Sunbelt Group, Triumph Tubular & Supply, Vantage Laser, Wirth Steel and York Steel.