Around where the latches attach to the riser I noticed that the glue isn't a consistent bead. I'm worried about moister getting in. What would you do to seal it and what would you use?
Dad, very sorry about this. I this a new one? There will be guys around to help. They will likely want to see pictures. I am not a bow repair expert.
It was a new one and I was going to buy when I saw inconsistent glue lines around the latches I backed off, I was worried about moister. Other than that It was a out standing piece of work. I would have bought it. I have shot a lot of bows over the years and B riser with number three was the smoothest. This is the Bubinga riser in talking about.
I asked because just yesterday I saw a new Grizzly in a bow shop with similar issues. The limb lamb was separating from the belly of the riser right where it connects with the shelf.
I REALLY like the grip and shelf on that new Grizzly too. It felt great to me.
I am sure some folks will chime in on the glue answer. Loctite 420 or some other form of high grade super glue that seeps well would likely work, but folks would want to see the area of concern I think.
As for me, I wouldn't buy a bow that came out with that kind of issue. If I really wanted it I would negotiate on a fair price with it coming back repaired from the factory, tell them you want a new one and wait for it, or buy one from a sponsor here that focuses on Trad and is likely going to weed out bad quality for you.
I did go to one of the sponsor and I would hate to be the one on the other end at Bear. Forgot about Loctite 420. Wonder were I can get some? `
I would think that sending it back to Bear would get it fixed.
If I wanted to fix it myself,and was sure it were secure but just needed sealed,I would fill it with a good epoxy glue and wipe off the excess with a damp finger.It should take less than a minute.
I think Loctite 420 would be too runny and likely come out some place you didn't want it too.It is good for hairline cracks etc but sometimes requires sanding and some refinishing.Epoxy cleans right up before it cures and won't bother the finish.
I was down at Jay's sporting goods in Clare Mich, and they had a few take downs there. Both bows were really nice looking, and felt good in the hand, but the glue seeping out from the latches caught my eye right away. Also, I think the little tab on the front of the latch is plastic. I didn't like that.
The new Bears that I have seen also seem to have a crappy finish on them.
The bow felt nice in the hand and shot nice.I would have bought one but missed spot on each latch really bugged me. The way I look at it their should be one seam all the way around where the latch comes it contact with the wood. Other than that the finish and arrow plate and shelf were cut right. I really wanted one of these and still do.
Thought I would give a up date. I did buy a "B" riser in the Black Dymondwood. This riser is thin just like the Bubinga and fits my had nicely. It has #1 limbs and is 50#. It shoots a 2016 with authority. I'm happy is an understatement. The glue lines are consistent and the bow lines are great. I would like to Thank Bear Archery for listening and putting out a product that I"m proud to own and shoot.
I recently swapped an old set of Lee 9MM reloading dies for a 09 Bear Kodiak Magnum. glue lines had a few "holes" or empty spots on the riser. I used super glue and a needle to fill in the gaps to keep out moisture. It looks like during the glue up they went a little light and therefore it didn't spread out evenly and fill everything in. Otherwise, it is a hard hitting little bow, well built. I'm sure the Bowyer's at Bear are under pressure to turn in quotas, therefore they miss little things on occassion.
I do believe they are trying, and with new personal their is a learning. That is good but they need to know how to do better and that comes with experience. The ones I looked at earlier would have been fine but they can do better and they appear to be doing just that. I'm happy with my purchase. The bow shoots were I'm looking. I ordered #3 limbs today in 45# and I can't wait to shoot them.
Its good to hear positive remarks on Bear's behalf. I see a lot of bad mouthing and all I can say is it sure looks like they are trying. Of course there is going to be a few bumps and things not exactly perfect. They are the only manufactor out there that has so many nice looking bows to chose from. I really dont think the prices are out of wack either. I was reading on Bear history and if you think they never had a problem up in Grayling, MI think again. I guess when Fred put the compus in the Kodiak it made the bow weak and they where breaking. Fred decided to replace them and it almost bankrupted Bear Archery. Give them a chance they are trying real hard to please us.
I have one of the bubinga A risers and it is flawless great finish and a super grip not to thick and feels perfect in the hand.
I think they are trying real hard to make a great bow.
I AGREE. I'AM HAPPY WITH MINE
I am very happy with my new Bubinga B riser. Looks great , shoots great .