Kodiak Recurve Bow Appraisal

Vintage Bear Archery Kodiak Recurve Bow

This is a vintage Bear Archery Kodiak model recurve bow, likely dating from the 1960s. The recurve bow features a classic one-piece laminate construction, characterized by a beautifully sculpted riser made from exotic hardwoods such as rosewood or bubinga, exhibiting a rich, dark grain and a high-gloss finish typical of Fred Bear's production era. The limbs are constructed of laminated maple cores faced and backed with high-strength fiberglass, likely in a dark green or brown hue. The bow is strung and includes string silencers and what appears to be a brush button on the upper limb. It features a distinctive sight window and an ergonomic grip design intended for traditional archery. Based on its profile, this is a mid-to-long length hunting bow. The condition appears well-maintained with a healthy luster to the wood and no obvious structural delamination visible in the image, though close inspection for vertical stress cracks (crazing) in the fiberglass and limb twist is necessary for a full appraisal. It represents the peak of mid-century American limb manufacturing and traditional archery craftsmanship.