I brought this subject up on another forum and it is getting some very positive responses. Let's see how it fairs here.

Some at the AMO and I have been talking about a definition of a Pro Shop for years. It is a very difficult thing to define because you stand a chance of injuring certain individuals. I would like to see a classification or scaling system that would allow a shop to grow or achieve over time.
My definition of an Archery Pro Shop would fall mostly within the following list but would not be limited by it. In other words, full compliance with the list may not be economically feasible for the proprietor. Expertise in certain areas could well override certain tools/equipment.

1. At least two different styles of bow presses indicates that a)the shop is able to handle most styles of bows and b)the shop has enough insight to know that more than one bow press is good insurance to meet the customers' needs.

2. An extensive supply of standard strings and cables. This includes everything from Dacron to the latest materials in all lengths.

3. The ability to listen to the customers' complaints and communicate probable solutions.

4. The ability to diagnose potential problems and offer corrective actions.

5. Trying to fix the customers' equipment before promoting 'new' equipment. What many 'archery' shops fail to realize is that the repair service will keep the doors open during economic turmoil such as we're experiencing right now.

6. Credentials: Certificates and/or Diplomas. This will give you an idea that the person working on your bow has had some training. Anyone can open an archery shop; but, expertise can only be learned. I'm not saying that someone can't learn by trial and error; but, do you want to be the guinea pig? Also keep in mind that trophies do not always constitute technical knowledge. While trophies may add some credibility, I know of a lot of good shooters, that are not good techicians. Their technical expertise is either limited or limited to their specific equipment. In fact, some of them could be better shooters if they wouldn't work on their own equipment. A good analogy would be stock car drivers. Do they work on their own engines and suspension?

7. Tuning techniques and equipment. Do they know how to properly paper tune, group tune, tune for broadheads? Do they have a paper tuning range and do they tune to different distances, do they have an Apple Tuning Machine, do they have a Hooter Shooter? If so, do they know how to properly use such equipment.

8. Reference material: If you ask a question, do they guess or use manufacturers' reference material? Do they guess your draw length or use several types of reference techniques such as the 'wing span' method?

9. Number of technians: Does the chief technician have someone training under him? Does the chief technician ask his other technician(s) for his/her advice? If someone is not in training, who will help you when your main technician is not available. This came to mind as I sit here trying to recover from an operation.

10. Variety of product carried: A good Pro Shop will carry a larger variety and varied price range of products. This applies to not only bow lines but also to sights, rests, etc. Everyone who walks through the door can't afford or doesn't want to get started with the 'best' or highest priced goods.


Now I'd like to here from you. While my list may seem harsh to smaller shops, it is really intended to satisfy the customers' needs. After all, isn't that the gist of what you expect from a PRO Shop? If you have any need, don't you want it satisfied? If you put my list to the test with any of the big chains, you will see that they will fail miserably.

What is intended is to 'qualify' your shop. Please don't take any offense to this list; but, help me set a standard for measurement.