Technical question from new member, any information gratyefully received.
In a number of threads about chisels some contributors suggest vintage cast steel chisels instead of new western chisels. I have happily used a set of Robert Sorby Gilt Edge bench chisels for some years, the steel takes and keeps a keen edge. Even better from my amateurs point of view they have exceedingly comfortable London type handles.
I have also inherited tools from my Grandfather who apprenticed as a railway coach (passenger car in US?) builder when they were made of wood in the 30's. I have his tool box, plain on the outside, fancy mahogany inside, and a number of tools including chisels, some he had new, some second hand so maybe pre great war. They are Sorbys and Wards, marked cast steel.
What is the difference/advantage of these over modern forged O1 or A2 steels, is there a difference in grain sizes? how do they compare in hardness and toughness? I don't use the chisels at the moment but I do find cast steel tenon saws better to use. I cannot even imagine how they cast such thin sections as the saw blades, maybe thats why no-one makes them anymore.
Anyone any information, or experience of how the steels compare?