How to Clean and Polish an Antique Bone Saw

Remove the handle from the saw with a screwdriver. Set the handle and the screws aside.

Scrape a razor blade across the surface of the saw to remove all debris. Hold the razor blade at a 45-degree angle to remove most of the contamination. Scrape both sides of the saw.

Wear a respirator mask when working with mineral spirits, also known as paint thinner. Mineral spirits are highly flammable chemicals that may cause neurological damage and other problems, according to a Princeton University art safety report. Sprinkle a few drops of mineral spirits over the surface of the saw. Work the spirits into the saw's surface to remove contamination and rust. Clean both sides of the saw.

Scrape the surface of the saw with silicon carbide sandpaper. Rub the sandpaper lengthwise across the blade. Use mineral spirits to lubricate the paper when necessary. Try to scrape off as much rust as possible, although you may not be able to remove all of it.

Rub the surface of the saw with paper towels to remove all grit, rust and dirt. Rub some metal polish into the saw's surface to restore its shine. Use a circular motion and soft cloths while rubbing.

Apply paste wax over the saw's surface to prevent future rust and to keep the saw shiny.

Rub the handle with steel wool to remove grit and dirt from the surface. Work some linseed oil into the handle to lubricate the wood and remove grease and oil. Reattach the handle to the saw.