Here's what I ask when buying a bow online or what I look for when looking one over in person -
Does the bow have any holes in the wood or glass that have been drilled or filled?
If you take the unstrung bow, tips pointed upward, and place it on a flat surface, like a countertop, is there wobble present when pushed side to side? If so, how much wobble? 1/16th", 1/8", 3/16", or more?
Are there any splits or cracks in the fiberglass or wood?
Are the limb tips in good condition with no cracks, splits, or delamination?
I am now starting to buy bows that many would pass by just to try my hand at refinishing and restoration.