Files and Rasps for Blades

[Mike Brubacher]

It looks as if there are already a couple of good questions on the table for you Mark so I'll throw mine on the pile as well. I've managed to accumulate a fair collection of old metal files myself. As you know, they can be picked up at little expense at auction. I'd guess that most of mine date from the 20's to the 50's. What would be your best guess on the type and quality of the steel they are made from? Is it possible to detemper them and then harden/temper again? Seems as if something useful should be made from them. They harken back to an era when men were men you know.