Author Topic: New finish? (Read 786 times)

OkieBowHunter11 · « **on:** March 19, 2016, 06:38:00 PM »

How do I safely remove this messy clear coat someone applied to my bear grizzly and reapply a new finish that will last and look good?

Wapiti Chaser · « **Reply #1 on:** March 19, 2016, 07:24:00 PM »

I use 0000 steel wool and then spray with helmsman spar urethane works well for me

OkieBowHunter11 · « **Reply #2 on:** March 19, 2016, 07:37:00 PM »

Ok i will look into that thanks. Is it not safe to apply some kind of thinner then?

Cavscout9753 · « **Reply #3 on:** March 19, 2016, 09:08:00 PM »

There's a bunch of options out there for finish, (and most are by much more experienced bowmen than myself). Truth be told, I aim for simple options because I lack a lot of skill. I agree on the steel wool to remove the old finish, works great and you can't accidentally over do it very easily. For finish I have settled on Tung Oil. It's a glossy finish, but that's what I like. I picked some up at Home Depot for around $20 and it lasts a long time. I wipe on a coat, hang for 24 hours, and repeat for 3 or 4 days. Its a very tough finish, water proof, scratch resistant, and sharp looking. I've done 4 or 5 bows with the one can and still have enough for as many more bows. It wipes on so it's easy to apply without streaks and won't flake or peel. Just my experience, and like I said - whatever other people tell you is just as (or even more!) better options.

OkieBowHunter11 · « **Reply #4 on:** March 19, 2016, 10:57:00 PM »

Thanks guys I'm working with the steel wool now it's coming off every so little but it works so thanks for that tip. I'm curious to see what's under this mess. Whoever put the coat on it didn't know what the where doing or probably sprayed it on it has lots of runs

bucknut · « **Reply #5 on:** March 19, 2016, 11:43:00 PM »

I have used 220 and 400 to 800 grit sand paper or scotch brite pads to clean a bow up then polish it with automotive scratch remover. You don't have to replace the stickers that way. The results will surprise you. I actually did this to my Griz also and it came out very nice.

OkieBowHunter11 · « **Reply #6 on:** March 20, 2016, 01:25:00 AM »

It's taking some time but I can tell already it's gonna be worth it!!!!

OkieBowHunter11 · « **Reply #7 on:** March 20, 2016, 01:29:00 AM »

It's taking some time but I can tell already it's gonna be worth it!!!! Seems like it had at least 3 coats on it so far the top limb back riser are down to bare glass I haven't touched the wood yet but its feeling smooth!! I'll be glad when it's ready to coat the right way or at least better than it was!!

OkieBowHunter11 · « **Reply #8 on:** March 20, 2016, 01:30:00 AM »

It's taking some time but I can tell already it's gonna be worth it!!!! Seems like it had at least 3 coats on it so far the top limb back riser are down to bare glass I haven't touched the wood yet but its feeling smooth!! I'll be glad when it's ready to coat the right way or at least better than it was!!

jrstegner · « **Reply #9 on:** March 20, 2016, 09:44:00 AM »

I use Formby's paint and poly remover and scrape the old finish off. Much quicker, and less labor intensive than steel wool.I like TruOil for a finish. You can leave it gloss, or rub in some mineral oil with #0000 steel wool for a nice satin finish.

OkieBowHunter11 · « **Reply #10 on:** March 20, 2016, 11:51:00 AM »

So the paint remover want hurt the bow then?

jrstegner · « **Reply #11 on:** March 20, 2016, 12:14:00 PM »

No. I have only used Formby's. I can't speak on other brands, but I am sure any of them would be safe.

Bvas · « **Reply #12 on:** March 20, 2016, 12:15:00 PM »

Just my opinion, but I would avoid paint removers/strippers. It might be quicker, but I wouldn't want to risk it softening the glue in the laminations.