[lugerholsterrepair]

I've always found it interesting that quenching a red hot piece of copper or brass will make it softer/more malleable,

David..Heating copper or brass to a red temp is all it takes..let it cool ..quenching is not necessary. It doesn't hurt the metal or make it any harder but heating or annealing brass makes it as soft as it will ever get. The only way to harden brass is to work it. Bend it, roll it, pound on it..it will be hard again and brass that is worked must be annealed in order to prevent it cracking.

You are quite correct about the ability to learn the procedures..The internet is a great learning source. As are people willing to share!
Gold and silver the same...