I have a nice old 1959 kodiak that has a hair line split on the overlay is it safe to shoot this bow?
should I replace the overlay?
What is the overlay made from in 1959?
can I repair it?

try to add pic looks like only the overlay is split  

Can't tell you the material they used but I would replace them with new ones- I wouldn't shoot it with that split.

Yes best bet is to grind the old ones off and put on new ones.

Yes fix it before shooting it.

File or sand the old ones off and use super glue to put on new ones. Use a chained file to make the string grooves, and a material like answer, horn, or phenolic to make the new overlay.

I would look into a restoration of that 59'
It is maybe the most collectable bow right now.
The overlays are made from a paper base phenolic and this is a common problem. I think Kurtbel has made some reproduction material to redo the tips with. Or you can get some red and white fiber glass and do it. or contact one of the bow fixer dudes to set you up. It will be worth doing a first class job on.

I did remove the overlay and have sent kurtbel a pm to see if he could get me a some overlay replacements.
Is this put on with super glue or 2 part epoxy?
Thanks  

A lot of guys use super glue, but I always use epoxy.

I like epoxy.

If you need it I can send you some  030 red and white pieces of core tuff fiber glass. Smooth On epoxy works best..but I use super glue  made by Gorilla glue most of the time..for your bow I would use smooth on, a repair and refinish from a pro like twotracks  may be an option for you too.

Thanks so much for all the help and Robert for sending me some core tuff.bow shoots great
New tips    

That's awesome!! Good job on the repair.

Good save, bighorn. Nice job.