Just any old brillo is not going to work. Some of them burn up immediately and while it still holds the rock, it totally fucks up the hits. Your throat will also start stinging as you're smoking brillo and rock together. Some of them aren't even thick enough even when balled up and too much air comes through. The entire crack session is ruined as you will not get blissed the hell out.
Don't waste money, copper or steel chore boy, proven to work. If you're not getting blissed the fuck out and nodding, then there is something wrong. There's no point in smoking crack if it's not done right.