I think the behaviour you are describing probably has more to do with whatever your cat experienced before the rescue centre and coming to you than to breed.
I have always found the word "NO" said firmly but kindly and never too loud can be understood by all cats, even those that do not want to understand it.
And praise him when he gets things right. That works wonders.
When he hisses or scratches, say NO. Then delay serving his food for five minutes, ignoring his complaints!
This will work - just don't expect instant improvement, will you?
Are you feeding him at the same time every day? If so, keep him out of the kitchen for the last half-hour before dinner time, so he has no opportunity to hiss or scratch.
If he snarls while sitting on your lap, put him on the floor saying "Don't speak to me like that, young man".
A mother cat whose kitten behaves in these ways would probably either cuff it, or shake it.
I would definitely not advise hitting a cat or any other animal and never one from a rescue centre as you have no idea whether he has been hit earlier on, but taking hold of the scruff of his neck while you say no, will remind him of his mummy correcting him. I find it works well with cats.
Obviously, be gentle, but then you would anyhow.