re: Hand saws, refurbing, setting and sharpening

Here is a note from Bob about that technique that I stored in OneNote:

The handle cleaning technique works very well. Oven cleaner for 15 minutes, then wash off. Then oxalic acid crystals in water to brighten the wood. I usually apply it 2 or 3 times. You'll want to scrape or sand off any old varnish before using the acid so you get a more uniform application. Wash the acid off, let the wood dry, then sand. Some handles look almost like new wood when you do this.

If you are ever doing a handle repair and the clean and sanded handle has discoloration or streaks use the Oxalic crystals.  Make a paste consistency and brush the paste onto the handle.  Rinse and repeat as necessary.