Found a recurve with questions...

[Bilbo]

Hey guys/gals. I'm a compound shooter, but I came across an old recurve for $60. It has no string and the only marking says Ben Pearson Colt 707-62". It has fiberglass limbs and wood middle. Varnish is flaking, but it appears it wasn't shot much. No limb twist. Wouldn't mind getting into traditional. I used to shoot my dad's when I was a kid. Here's my questions:

Is this a good deal?

How would I find out a string length?

What draw weight would it be? Thanks!

[duck'n]

Depending on draw weight I would buy it in a heartbeat for $60...you can't hardly buy an old beat up bowfishing bow for that anymore...and most have some twist in the limbs (which can usually be fixed by the way). I am no archery guru but I would think if the poundage isn't marked, you would have to put it on a scale to figure out what it draws. A little varnish flaking is easily fixed with some sandpaper and spray finish...many on here could give you pointers on that. Several on here could make you a string also. Good luck.

[loco cacahuate]

I'd take it for $60 for sure. Probably it would take a 58" string.

[CaptJack]

as loco said - the string length for most recurves is 4" less than the AMO length marked on the bow.
58" string for a AMO 62" bow
If there isn't any limb twist - it's a GREAT deal !!
If there isn't a poundage on the side of the bow where the AMO length is listed it was probably a mass market (MontgomeryWards sporting goods dept.) bow. They are usually around 45# @ 28"

[Bilbo]

Just looked at it again. On the side, it says 30# @ 28". So, that tells me the weight. What do y'all think now? Thanks for all the info.!

[CaptJack]

ovalhunter - it's a target bow
it would still be a great form practice bow with some full length aluminum 1816s
a great teaching bow

I have a 64" Quinn Stallion with 32# limbs that I use for my teaching bow
my great nephew after about his first 20 minutes (full length 1816s)

[Bilbo]

I think I'll go ahead and get it. I'll practice with it and also teach my daughter to shoot it. Thanks for all the info!

[mikebyrge]

If it has brown glass on the limbs it is 40# or more, light colored glass and it is less than 40#. Pearson made two different Colts. One has a larger riser made of Olla wood and the other (older) had a slimmer riser.

The "newer" ones with Olla wood are nice looking bows. Don't worry about the finish flaking...it is a snap to refinish those old bows and you will enjoy it.

If it is a shooter $60 is a great deal.

[loco cacahuate]

another thing DO NOT use a ff string on it.

[Night Wing]

It might take a 59" string instead of a 58" string. It's a great buy.

[bob sarrels]

Buy it and have fun with it. You will have a blast. Might make you rethink shooting your confound, I am sorry, your compound bow and join the dark side.