Removing Snake Skins

[Benoli]

Just picked up a used bow with snake skins that have chipped and peel in places. Any ideas on best to remove without causing damage to original fiberglass? I would prefer to restore the original finish, if possible or paint the limbs. It's an older Bear Cub recurve that I'd like to pretty up for a neighbor kid.

[Flinttim]

Just removed a set from a glass bow.I peeled what I could off and then rubbed the thing with #0000 steel wool and denatured alcohol. Mine appeared to be put on with Titebond as a lot are, so depending on the glue used your results may vary. Most guys rough the bow up with 200 grit or so paper before applying the skins so mine showed some scratches from that. I wet sand the back with 400 grit lightly and then some 600 and put on some poly to finish it off.

[Benoli]

Thanks. I was able to peel most of skin off and it looks like what remains is the residue from whatever glue was used. I'm gonna give the steel wool a try.

[calgarychef]

Removing snake skins, first you nail the snakes head to a tree....

Sorry couldn't resist!