Mark,

You're inquiry is valid but as you have suggested, much of this information has been covered many times on this and other forums.

I have two suggestions:

1. Play with the search features on this forum as you can probably dig up a lot of threads that will have what you are looking for.

2. If you are really interested in the information you seek for the long term invest in the book:
Randall Made Knives: The History Of The Man And The Blades (Equipment & Techniques) (Hardcover)
by Robert L. Gaddis

Just as recently as 3-4 years ago this book could be purchased for about $65.00. I purchased one new from the Randall Shop about four years ago for around that but obviously things have changed as new copies seem to go for $200+ WOW!

This book would answer most if not all of your questions.