Discover a novel, self-contained approach to an important technical area, providing both theoretical background and practical details. Coverage includes mechanics and physical metallurgy, as well as study of both established and novel procedures such as indentation plastometry. Numerical simulation (FEM modelling) is explored thoroughly, and issues of scale are discussed in depth. Discusses procedures designed to explore plasticity under various conditions, and relates sample responses to deformation mechanisms, including microstructural effects. Features references throughout to industrial processing and component usage conditions, to a wide range of metallic alloys, and to effects of residual stresses, anisotropy and inhomogeneity within samples. A perfect tool for materials scientists, engineers and researchers involved in mechanical testing (of metals), and those involved in the development of novel materials and components.