Skip to main content

Two vintage archery bows

prayermighty
5 months ago
AI Appraisal
Description

I have two vintage archery bows.  Exact age of both is unknown but they were my husband's when he was a child and he would be 51 if he were alive today. 

1.) Red Bear recurve bow by Bear. painted red, with some scratches in paint but no repairs or signs of damage or weakening. No cracks. Appears to be painted wood. Has a white painted marking that says "Red Bear (outline of a grizzly bear) AMO 55"  No original paperwork or accessories. Bow is not strung.

2.) Label says "Stream-EZE trademark glass bow Model No.35 Grayling, MICH" It is a bow that was built to break down into two pieces. It appears to be mostly wooden but has two ends that look like bone but may actually be some type of hard plastic. There is a metal piece that is below the wooden handle that has a label sticker that is yellowed with age but easily legible. The label states the company and name, as listed above. The metal piece is where the two halves of the bow fit together. There are only a couple of scratches. no repairs or signs of damage or weakening. No cracks.  No original paperwork or accessories. Bow is not strung.

Category General Antiques and Collectibles
Medium 1.) Appears to be wood painted red.

2.) wooden with metal below handle where two halves fit together. bone tips on either end, or may be hard plastic made to look like bone.
Distinguishing marks 1.) white paint with aforementioned labeling

2.) white sticker, yellowed with age but clearly legible, stating the above name and model number
Condition Good
Size and dimensions of this item As listed above
Date Period several decades old, at least but not exactly sure of exact age
Weight unknown
History These were both my husband's when he was a child. He would be 51 if he were alive today.
Price Paid (If known) unknown
Want more from your appraisals?

Upgrade for PDF reports, more daily appraisals, and ad-free experience.

View Plans →

Submitted by NaidaTheCollector

Report for Two Vintage Archery Bows

Item 1: Red Bear Recurve Bow by Bear Archery

  • Manufacturer: Bear Archery
  • Markings: "Red Bear (outline of a bear) AMO 55"
  • Construction: Painted wood (red), recurve design
  • String: Missing
  • Condition: Good vintage condition; some scratches to the paint, no structural damage or visible cracks

Background & Identification:
This bow was manufactured by Bear Archery, a highly regarded American bow manufacturer founded by Fred Bear. The “Red Bear” model was one of their youth/training bows, most popular from the 1960s to the 1980s. The “AMO 55” refers to the Archery Manufacturers Organization standard bow length of 55 inches.

Estimated Value (2025):
$75–$150 USD depending on condition and market interest. If the bow were strung and verified to be shootable, it could be slightly more appealing to collectors.

Item 2: Stream-EZE Model No. 35 Glass Bow

  • Manufacturer: Stream-EZE, Grayling, Michigan
  • Label: "Glass Bow Model No. 35"
  • Construction: Wood with reinforced fiberglass limbs (commonly referred to as “glass bows”), two-piece takedown design, handle with a wood grip and metal fitting
  • Tip Material: Likely early form of synthetic or phenolic resin made to resemble bone
  • String: Missing
  • Condition: Good with light surface wear; intact label

Background & Identification:
Stream-EZE bows were commonly produced in the 1950s–1960s as affordable, entry-level bows. The “glass bow” term refers to the laminated fiberglass limb construction, which offered durability and flexibility. Grayling, MI is also known for being the headquarters of Bear Archery during this period, though the two companies were separate.

Estimated Value (2025):
$60–$125 USD depending on market interest and completeness. While less collectible than Bear Archery bows, the intact label and two-piece takedown design make it desirable to vintage archery enthusiasts.

Authentication

Both bows appear authentic based on your detailed photos, especially given the age context (your husband would be 51 in 2025, so these date to the late 1970s or early 1980s). The labels, construction methods, and materials all align with what was used during that era.

Recommendations

  • Storage: Keep both unstrung, in a dry and cool place to preserve wood and laminate integrity.
  • Professional Appraisal: If you plan to insure or sell the bows, a formal appraisal from an archery specialist or vintage sporting goods expert may add value.
  • Selling Venue Suggestions: eBay (vintage sporting category), archery forums, or local collectors.
📸 Quick Scan
Garage-Sale Mode Fast appraisals on the go