I'm trying to get to the next level of understanding. think I get the big picture on many hand tools. I've used both vintage and modern planes, saws, chisels, etc..... Now I wanet a few gory details.
Are there sources that will help me understand hand tool metallurgy?
For example: what is "Spring Steel", what does "Swedish" and "Sheffield" mean in terms of physical properties? What does the number "1095" mean for saw plate steel? What did Stanley use for plane bodies and irons and what about Record, Millers Falls etc.? What is Ductile Iron and Bronze and why does it matter? What do the names A2 and O1 steel mean? What does the Rockwell hardness scale mean for the layman? Pros and cons for each? Etc...etc...
These are the things that keep me awake at night.
I am not soliciting answers to all these specific questions, and more, here and now. I'm just looking for a reference source, either online or in print. Of course any information in any form would be most welcome.
Thanks in advance for your help. Dan