There was a question regarding making tools for shaping with, such as punches etc. well for making punches and chasing tools I use silver steel rods, which I shape and then harden and temper before use. I also make press tools using brass rods. I thought some may be interested in checking out this metal supplier, they stock a lot of useful metals, both rods and sheets in various shapes and sizes.
See; http://www.collegeengineering.co.uk/shop-online/

James