restore or bin?

[Jacob]

I'd replace the blade. ...

Yes, and why not the handle and the other bits whilst you are at it?

You don't have to "restore" it if you just want to use it. Sharpen and set, bit of glue in the split, any old nut and bolt to replace the missing. Don't polish anything but you could wipe linseed oil all over it. It'll polish itself if you use it at all.
"Restoration" is a peculiar hobby in it's own right and not the same as merely making a tool serviceable. Personally I don't like "restored" things in general - they don't keep that shiny newness for long, unless you keep them in a box. I often think it's a pity that something has had the life scrubbed and polished out of it. I would prefer them to be left alone.

 

[digitalbot]

"I often think it's a pity that something has had the life scrubbed and polished out of it. I would prefer them to be left alone."

You won't like this then......
.....

my previous restoration.


old-disston-back-saw-t79417.html

 

[Jacob]

Very nice but it's just not my sort of thing!

 

[pedder]

First: I never tell people what to do with theire saws, I just tell what i would do.

I'd replace the blade. ...

Yes, and why not the handle and the other bits whilst you are at it?

Because the blade is rotten to death inside the handel and without a new blade it won't be a good saw again.
Bin (no pun intended) there done that!

I bring old ladies back to work without overfinish them. Just take a look at my blog.

Cheers
Pedder

Fulll extra bling on news saws, only.