With his early knowledge of metals and the skill he acquired in working them, man launched himself into civilization. From the copper axe of primitive man, technology has progressed to the metal container in which modern man launches himself into space. The working of metals is one of the few characteristics, comparable with the recording of experience and the taming of fire, that distinguishes man from the beasts. This book gives complete instructions on the handling, working and finishing of all metals. Part One is devoted to basic information and the characteristic qualities of each of the metals met by the craftsman, both precious and base. Part Two describes the various techniques in working metals, those that do not require soldering, those employing contrasting metals, those that require soldering and those combining metals with non-metallic materials. Smithing, annealing, forging, casting and other methods of metal fabrication are dealt with in Part Three, while Part Four deals with metal finishing. Hand tools and their uses are described in Part Five, while Part Six is devoted to charts and tables. This book is fully indexed and lavishly illustrated not only with working techniques but also with fine examples of craftsmanship through the ages.