7 Reasons to Buy Bows from Your Local Archery Shop

I’ll never forget unpackaging my first compound bow. I was in between hunts at a friend’s ranch when my buddy, an avid archer, coaxed me into letting him assemble it. As I watched him attach the various components of the kit, I remember him saying, “I guess you’ve got your own personal archery pro shop here.”

He was right. An hour later, I was shooting my new budget Martin Jaguar.

In a world where virtually everything is a click away, it’s easy and tempting to hop on the smartphone or tablet and order away. Bows are no different, with many brands and models available online. There are some pretty good deals, too. Whether online or in big box sporting goods stores, many bows are offered “ready to shoot,” coming complete with a rest, sight, quiver, and stabilizer (if not more); or you have the task of hand-picking your accessories. Either way, the clock is ticking as soon as you open that that box on your doorstep.

How you proceed from there will make a big difference in the proficiency of your shooting – especially if you are a beginner or even intermediate archer. You will be well-served to, instead of ordering online, visit your local archery pro shop to purchase your bow. There are many reasons and here are a few of them.

Reason 1: Choosing Wisely

Pro shop experts can help you decide on a bow that fits your physique. There is a lot to consider, such as draw length and weight. If you’re a hunter, failure to be fitted with the right bow can lead to problems down the road – not the least of which is a failed shot at a game animal. Yeah, we all hate that one.

Additionally, your local pros are more than willing to review your shooting form and even let you test shoot. Try that online or even in a big box store. Needless to say, nobody wants to be saddled with a bow they can’t shoot proficiently.

By the way, while you’re there, take time shoot at least two alternative models. There is nothing like firsthand comparison shopping and the indoor range is only steps away.

Reason 2: Free Setup

As stated above, many online and sporting goods stores offer bows as part of a package. Admittedly, the included accessories are nice, especially for the beginner. However, they’re usually pretty low-end. More than anything, there is nobody more qualified than archery shop staff to set it all up correctly and accurately and make all necessary adjustments. And if you purchase a bow at the shop, the setup is free. It’s a win-win.

Reason 3: Tools of the Trade

There is much more to deal with than just installing bow accessories. Not only does poundage and draw length have to be set accurately, other important tweaks need to be made such as ensuring the peep sight is set in the right place.

If you want to go the extra mile to maximize your shooting set up, there are also other important to-dos such as properly cutting arrows and paper-tuning. Your local pro shop will have a good bow press and other needed equipment to perform these tasks. While these services will cost you on subsequent visits, they’re typically free for the initial purchase of a showroom bow.

Reason 4: Camaraderie

Just like local barber shops, coffee houses, and hunting camps, archery shops offer good old-fashioned fellowship. When customers gather, you’ve got an assembly of like-minded folks which often leads to tip-sharing and hunting stories. I’ve even made lasting friendships while waiting at the counter or perusing the bows and other gear in the shop – not to mention the shooting range.

Reason 5: Cream of the Crop Bows

There is nothing wrong with seeking out and buying mid and even lower-end bows. The internet is chock full of them and many of them are high-performing. However, archery shops typically sell a top-notch assortment of bows. In fact, the leading bow companies only allow their bows to be sold at local archery pro shops. These days, this usually includes premier brands such as Mathews, Hoyt, and high-end PSE and Bear models.

Newcomers to many pro shop lineups include Prime and Elite. Pro shops are also known for offering premier bow accessories.

Whatever your opinion is on bow brands and prices, your local bow shop will give you access to very high-performance gear of the highest quality – including the most reputable flagship bows on the market. Despite price, you’ll know you made a good investment in what will likely be one of your most prized possessions.

By the way, many pro shops allow trade-ins, creating great opportunities for used bows by the same leading brands.

Reason 6: Turnkey Customer Service

Archery pro shops don’t only provide archers with a lot of valuable information and instruction, they do so via face-to-face interactions. Whether you want advice or instruction related to archery or bowhunting, there will be a smiling face in front of you willing to help. Try that with an online transaction.

What about warranty issues? If your bow breaks or malfunctions, staff at your local bow shop will usually facilitate, if not take care of the warranty process – for free. Now that’s customer service. Warranty issues with an online-purchased bow will be much more complicated and likely costly.

Reason 7: Preparation, Fun, and Therapy

Most pro shops feature an indoor range which is the perfect place for preparing for your next hunt, competitive archery, or just blowing off steam.

I know I’ve spent many lunch hours at the range following stressful mornings at the office. Range use is usually around a mere $10 per hour.

Many shops also offer lessons, shooting leagues, and even range rental for archery parties. The latter is great for kids and adults alike. They’re not only fun, but present a quality hobby option to those unfamiliar with archery. You don’t have to worry about your skill level either as shop staff are there to assist.

Buying your bow from your local shop makes a lot of sense. When you do, you’re directly working with a fellow archer and hunter – and they’re readily accessible. While many seasoned archers can take on the role of bow technician, it’s not always practical considering the time and equipment needed. So, when it comes to buying and maintaining your bow, shop local as they say. And while you’re at it, take some time to send a few arrows and engage in fellowship with fellow archers. Rely on the pros.

Jerald Kopp

Based in Texas, Jerald Kopp is President of 1st Light Hunting Journal. His articles cover a variety of topics about hunting and the outdoor lifestyle. Jerald is an avid outdoorsman with deer hunting and whitetails being by far his greatest passion. He was introduced to hunting and fishing at an early age and has been enjoying it for 40+ years. In 2005, he established the Empowerment Outfitter Network (EON) – a faith-based non-profit organization that provides hunting opportunities for disabled and terminally-ill children and youth. When not hunting, he spends his time traveling and enjoying life with Amy, his wife of over 30 years. Jerald and Amy have two adult daughters and a son-in-law.

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