This section is from the book "Elements Of Construction", by Charles A. King. Also available from Amazon: Elements of construction.
Nail Sets. are for the purpose of "setting" the nails, or for sinking them below the surface of the wood; and in order to stand the hard usage to which they are subjected, they must be very carefully tempered.
The best form of nail set is that which has a cupped or hollow point, as it is not so apt to slip off of the head of the nail.
 
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