Kind of went off the deep end and bought a Kodiak off the auction site. I'm not a collector, yet, but like 50s style bows and thought it would make a good turkey bow so I bought it. Don't know whether it's a 57 or 58, or maybe something else. The fella who was selling it said he thought it was a 58, but wasn't sure because 58s supposedly have white glass and this one has brown glass. Serial number is A over EB 154. 60 inches, 50#. Very nice delicate tips. Maple riser and limb laminations. Can you tell me the year it might be?
Also, it appears to be in very good condition. Very few minor scratches, no stress lines on the back and only one or two very minor short stress lines (not big enough to call them cracks) on the belly side above and below the grip. Have to hold the bow in the bright sun to see them. Limbs are straight. If I shoot it, over time will these belly stress lines likely enlarge, and is the bow likely to develop stress cracks on the back?.
Finally, the string the fella sent with it is about 53 1/2 inches long and yielded about a 9-10 inch brace height. No doubt it's too short. I built another string and have the brace set at about 7 1/8 plus now. Is that about right? Seems there is still some unnecessary vibration and noise at the shot. (Yes, I have shot a few arrows through it.) I bought this bow to shoot rather than put on the wall. However, if its condition and rarity (if it even is) merit collector status, I'd rather not be the one to ruin it. I can always buy something else to shoot. Appreciate whatever help you can provide.