John used the "Motsenbockers Lift Off paint and graffiti remover" Sold at Home D and other hardware stores. I used it on a wood bass hoop. Worked very well but I should have removed the partial inlay first. The product got trapped under the wrap inlay and melted it. Rookie mistake. I used Kleen Strip paint remover on my 13" RK shell to take off the clear poly (non factory) that was on it. That also worked very well. Each product took a few applications. Tape off the holes and bearing edges. Keeps em nice.
That's a great score for $50. They'll look like a million bucks when your finished~!