The effect of impulse treatment on structure of model alloys (low-carbon steel, technical iron), structural and tool steels is studied. Impulse effect is realized by shock waves with 200-1500 Hz frequency. Mechanical properties and microstructure of the samples before and after impulse treatment are determined. It is shown that impulse treatment increases steels strength, providing the viscosity is maintained or somewhat increased. The impulse treatment is shown to result in sufficient grain refinement. Under the given treatment microplastic deformation of materials is to take place.