55 Kodiak

[Rick James]

Hey all, I now have a 55 Kodiak that is in shootable shape (and it shoots remarkably well) that I would like to refinish. How would ya'll recommend handling the leather grip and arrow rest--can I remove the rest and then just glue back on with contact cement? And what about the grip--should I just leave it on throughout the process or can it be safely removed and reinstalled? And lastly what kind of finish would ya'll recommend for a bow like this--It won't be hanging on a wall--I plan on shooting it! thanks alot, lots of good info here!
Rick

[TRAP]

If the leather grip is in decent condition I would suggest leaving it on the bow and refinnishing around it.  The same applies for the leather rest.  If you are able to pull it off easily it can be reapplied with contact cement but oftentimes they are dry and will tear when you try to lift them.

I like Tru Oil because it's so easy to use.  It can be wiped on with a paper towel or a foam brush.  

It's good to see another one is being resurrected.  Post some pics along the way.  The narrow limb tips and simple design make the mid 50s Bears a pleasure to shoot.  

Good Luck and Enjoy, Trap

[Rick James]

Here's a few pics--the sanding has begun--strike plates removed...
How do you know that you've hit the fiberglass--At first the finish dust was yellow, Now I'm getting more white dust?? The lower limb (on the left) in the bottom pic has been sanded and the upper limb has not. Still learning how to take and post pics... thanks, Rick
 

[TRAP]

When sanding, I start at the riser and  work toward the tips, one limb surface at a time.  You can follow the finish line to the tip if you keep wiping the dust off.  The veterans may have a better way but that works for me.  Good looking bow, Have Fun

Trap