RE: Sheet metal models?
The Williams brothers (wheels/plastic engines,etc.) published several great all metal team race models in the 50s - I think. I've lost track of the issues, but those articles had detailed instructions on how to cut, shape, and rivet the metal panels, as well as how to build and fly the models.
They were truly craftsmen, and those models, and others of course, were part of what made me a lifetime model builder/flyer.
Thermals,
Stew