The effects of TEA CO2 laser radiation on AISI 420 stainless steel and formed surface structures are studied. The laser energy density of 45.0 J/cm(2) has modified the target surface. Qualitatively, the modifications of AISI 420 steel can be summarized as follows: change of color after action of one laser pulse; central zone of interaction in crater like form and periphery zone of interaction (for more than 10 laser pulses); appearance of grainy features and ablation rate of near 4 rim per laser pulse (action of 400 laser pulses); hydrodynamical effects like resolidified rim and droplets.