Got a new hand saw? Want to keep it sharp? Here's how to keep a new blade sharp and to tell when and old one is dull. It is said that a sharp saw is a good saw, and indeed it is. The best way to keep it that way is to start protecting it when it's not in use. Always cover the blade teeth with a section of garden hose slit lengthwise or with a few slip-on plastic spines from report covers. A light coat of machine oil prevents rusting, too. Over time, any blade dulls and loses its bite, requiring greater force to make cuts. To tell if it's time to retool the blade, look for rounded points and cutting edges that are worn. If you find them, check the Yellow Pages and have it professionally resharpened. And that's the On The House tip for today.