I had the good fortune to snag a Disston #12 panel saw last Saturday. It is a beauty. Tote is one of Disston's very best: intact with no cracks, breaks, or missing pieces. (It has one slight paint smear and a previous owner's name lightly scratched on the back side of the tote.) Buttons are clean and crisp. Blade is nearly unused with no missing teeth and a good nib: straight, shiny and nearly free of blemishes (for a 1896-1917 model) and the etching is clear as day.
Here is my problem: I have cleaned and "restored" many hand saws, but this saw is clearly something special. What should I do? My greatest concern is that I would do something to harm it.
If you can give me unequivocal sound advice, speak up. Please. I don't want suggestions; I want to do this saw justice--if I do anything at all.
