cleaning up an old bow

[Nuctech]

Hey Fellas,

   I recently purchased an original red wing hunter off the big auction site. Its a pre AMF, head ski bow. Its in really good shape, no limb twist just some grime and little scratches here and there from use.  I don't want to sand it down and refinish just want to clean it up best as possible without removing any of the finish. What do you guys suggest for cleaning up a bow to get it shining again?

[stagetek]

Any good wood cleaner or polish will work. I've also used paste wax and bowdoc's special concoction. I would avoid chemicals like acetone or lacquer thinner's. They will get off what ever is on there, but probably dull the finish as well.

[Bladepeek]

I've bought quite a few as "project bows" just to be able to shoot different brands/types of bows.

For removing old tape residue, I like "Goo Gone" or another brand of the same thing. Seems to dissolve the old tape crud without damaging the finish. Then, some warm soapy water to clean away the "patina" and they look a LOT better. A coat of wax ( I use Renaissance wax because I have it, but a floor or car paste wax works fine) adds a bit of protection for a finish probably worn thin.

[Nuctech]

Thanks guys! Its a nice bow really shoots an arrow flat. I plan on cleaning her up and making up some wood arrows to hunt with a bit come next deer season.

[Jack Hoyt 75]

I agree with stagetek and Bladepeek completely.

Could also just try soap, hot water and old fashion elbow grease with a sponge or scrub brush.

If you really want to clean it up and bring back some beauty this is what I have learned from some pro bow refinishers.  I have done it 4 times with great results.

Wipe it off with a damp rag to remove loose dirt, Go over it with Formby's furniture restorer and a SOS pad or fine steel wool.  This will dissolve all gunk and dirt on the finish and take out some very minor scratches on the finish but it does soften up the finish when you are applying it.  Let it dry completely and give it a once over with very fine steel wool or very fine wet sand paper.  Clean the surface well with a rag or tack cloth to remove all dust.  Wipe with 1 to 3 light coats or TruOil and she will be shiny and look almost like new!