If you pick up a 60s or 70s Bear, you should be fine no matter the model. Yes, they are dacron only! I would look for a longer model for a smoother draw and less finger pinch, 58" or above. The short Magnums are handy but do have a fair amount of finger pinch.
I'm kind of partial to the Black Bear 60" recurve. I've had several and all were very nice bows. I still have one, though it is pretty ugly as bows go, but it's my bowfishing rig, so pretty doesn't matter so much. My daughter shoots a 45# Black Bear and loves it. Her's is also much nicer looking than mine.
It's hard to go wrong with a Grizzly either. They are easier to find, but tend to run a little higher in price.
I don't know of any real lemons in that era. Maybe someone else does, but I doubt it. Bears were solid bows at that time.