Refinishing Bears?

[Bakes168]

I just bought a  Bear Kodiak that I think is from the 60's and it has some minor scratches and dings in it, and the finish looks pretty worn.
I was wondering how to go about putting a new finish on this bow...tips, links, anything helpful please.

What year do you guys think it is? The serial # is 5L190.    

Oh and one more thing, there is a hair line crack on inside of the bottom limb, is this something I should worry about?
Thanks for your help
Bakes

PS: I'll try to get pics

[Bjorn]

Go to the 'collecting' section here on this site.
You'll get all kinds of info there.

[Blackhawk]

Post some pics if you can, but it sounds like a 1965.  

Do a search and you will find a few threads (w/pics) on refinishing.

[hotfootTG]

What Bjorn said, but for now - It's a 65 Kodiak. On the hairline crack; Inside, I guess you mean mean face or belly. i.e., the side facing the shooter? If so, it depends on; which way the crack is going (across the bow our up and down the limb) and how deep it is. You don't normally see 'crazing' in the finish in that spot. It's usually seen on the back up in the area of the fadeouts. A picture is needed for better info.
Al (Als Decals)

[Bakes168]

Thanks for the info guys.
Bakes

[JL]

Cracks never get smaller and can be downright dangerous in a bow. Get with the real bow dock (Don) or droptine59 (Rich) to see what your dealing with. Sounds like a 65 Kodiak (good bow, I have/shoot one) but make sure it's safe to shoot.

JL

[d. ward]

How about a couple pictures of her.Sure sounds like a 1965 to me too.I got a 53# 1965 and that is one great shooting bow.If you check the collecting section as Bjorn and the boy's mentioned we will be happy to point you in the correct direction........bowdoc