I know it can be done but in our fast paced society It would be hard to slow to that pace, you have to keep in mind they had to use what they had and they probably thought it was to of the line at that time, it took ever how long it took.They had no TV/internet/golf/ball/jobs/ or the so many other things we have to distract us. As far as metal hand tools I see no problem at all. Maybe a little slower to rough out but quality just as good if not better.
Pappy