[tc65]

I can't answer your question, but here is a link to the Disstonian Institute Gallery page. About the sixth picture down has the caption : "This is how a Disston saw looked new........." Other pages on the Institute site may give you further information on what was used for finishing handles.

 

[tc65]

It looks dark to me, but I love that look, particularly on classic old tools. To me it says this saw has a history, has been well used and taken care of and has a 100 years more use in it.

Really, it's all about personal preference.

On saw handles I use BLO, you can topcoat with almost anything after that including poly, wax, lacquer or shellac. I made a couple of new ones in the last year and treated with BLO followed by poly. I've got several old ones that I have just cleaned and waxed.

If you haven't yet, visit the site Hosted by Firemedic (Jean) http://www.creoleproject.blogspot.com/ On the right hand side there should be a link on cleaning and restoring wood tools.

 

[tc65]

You could try putting some glue over the crack and then rub it in with your finger. It's hard to tell exactly how small it is. If it doesn't reach all the way through the handle, or you can't flex it apart to get glue in it, you might just leave it and glue it when/if it spreads.