Bear Cub question

[Hermon]

I just picked up a Cub off the classifieds.  Doesn't really matter but am curious about the year.  I read once that Bear stopped putting on leather grips in 59.  Is this true for the Cub?  What years did they produce them?
Thanks

[Horney Toad]

They built those cubs for a long time, early 1950s to the early 1970s I think. The 1963 cub had a leather grip. Give more description and serial #.

[Hermon]

 

   

 

[Horney Toad]

It is 1950s, don't know the exact year. Looks to be in good shape.

[Hermon]

Thanks.  Was described as "like new" and the pictures seem to back that up.  Always wanted an old Bear.

[Horney Toad]

Is it a single or double shelf?

[Larry m]

If it's double shelf, I think what you have there is a 57. Regardless of the year that is a very nice bow.
The Cub was made from 52 to 57 then brought back in 62. The Alaskan took it's place 58-61.
I believe Jeff to be correct in that the last year for the leather grip was 63, the year of the dogleg!!

[Hermon]

Dual shelf.
Thanks for all the information!

[PAPALAPIN]

Love that '64.  What draw weight is it?

[Hermon]

It isn't mine, it sold to someone else.  It was a 60" 62# I believe.

[Hobow]

Larry, didn't the Panda take its place during those years or was it just coincidence that it was introduced when the Cub ceased?

[Larry m]

Brad
The Panda was designed as "a special appeal to the younger set and beginners. Priced for first bow buyers, schools etc." A very low priced intro in the Bear line.
Both the Alaskan and the Cub while inexpensive were 62" and could be ordered up to 60#.
The Panda at 58" hit a peak order weight of 36#'s.
So, just a coincidence!

[Hobow]

Thanks Larry!    

[lolvo240]

I inherited a Cub that looks very, very similar to the leftmost bow in that picture. Mine is also dual shelf, and I am also wondering if it's possible to pinpoint the year more precisely than "mid 1950's-ish". Even if it isn't, it still seems like a very nice minimalist bow (in my limited experience).