Bear Bow Finishes

[billy shipp]

What finish did Bear use on the 60's & 70's model bows?

I want to order a new bow, but I do not like the Matt, Peebly type finishes most bowyers use today.

I want a smooth, slick finish....not necessarily high gloss, just slick and smooth. A lot of todays bowyers are use T- Bird as a finish, but everything seems to have the Matt or Orange Peel look and texture.

They ask what I'm wanting and expecting in a finish, but seem to be unwilling to do anything different.....what specifically do I need to ask for?

Thanks, Billy

[JimB]

I think you want a hand rubbed finish.The Bear bows were wet sanded between coats and that is what makes them feel so smooth.It takes more labor to do this and some bowyers may not offer it but I know some do.A hand rubbed finish could be high gloss or satin but will have a silky smooth feel.You may find it standard with a few bowyers or some may offer it as an option at an additional cost and some may not want to fool with it.

[Bjorn]

Bear used Fullerplast which is still a popular product today, and as Jim said there was lots of wet sanding between coats.
You should be able to get exactly the finish you want from most bowyers today I would think.

[billy shipp]

Thanks guys.....that's the info I needed.

[Grant Young]

Owen Jeffery told me once that the top line Bear bows of the sixties had up to seven coats of Fullerplast, hand rubbed between each coat. Said the finish was the most expensive portion of the manufacturing process. GY

[d. ward]

I got an A riser in my shop right now with as many as 7 coats on it and it is a mother getting the original finish off which is whats wrong with fuller its to hard once baked bd

[Grant Young]

Bowdaddy- Where you been? Leavin for Texas tomorrow evening; I'll give you a call saturday morning while we're on the road. I got a question to tell ya,  Grant