I appreciate all the input and will use the advice to advance the archery profession to the best of my ability. To answer some of your questions and explain some issues, I offer the following:

Big Country and walks with a gimp: No, I don't think many of my customers really know what they've got. We keep on growing so I'm assured that a lot of them do need our help.

hill runner: You've got mail.

bull1870 & wvhunter: Please stop by when you get some time. Keep in mind that the store is not impressive - it's a converted Body and Fender shop. We do, however, have a lot of stock and provide plenty of service.


The Mouse: We have 4 active presses and several in storage. One press is good enough but more is better for the reasons I stated. Talking you out of a 'gadget' is the sign of a PRO Shop. We do it more often than I'd like to admit. Not have enough time may not be a sin but a reality. Remember, if they're good, they'll have a very large customer base. There may be 20-30 bows waiting for their attention. Certifications are available but are not critical if the work they're doing meets your needs and expectations and they meet some of the guidelines I've stated. They'll expand if they can make a decent profit. If that happens, you can tell from these responses that you'll have an exception in your town. If you support them, they'll support you. Tell the owner about this thread and that he might want to consider introductory packages from some manufacturers. Once the shop is established and respected, many customers are willing to pay the extra $ for the professional set up.

muzzyman88 & JDoyle: Sounds like you two have good ones. As you can also see by the responses, consider yourself lucky and support such a shop and make sure you let your friends know that it is a true PRO Shop.

PW12: You're right about allocating your time. Enjoy your vacation. You've earned it. And how well I know that.

jevan: You're in a good location and they need more than what they've had down there in Southern MD. Welcome to the profession and please respect it as a profession. If you don't charge enough for your services, that tells the customers that your services aren't worth it or may make your competition look ridiculous. If you start doing an operation on the side, please don't do it so inexpensive that you make the local PRO Shop look like he's overcharging. Remember, anyone will want you to work on their bow for nothing. And, they'll line up at your door for that free service or marginal markup. Some will also stick you with special orders and other items if you give them half a chance. Just a word of caution. My cousin got caught up in the scenario I just explained. They were all his friends as long as he would meet their needs. Many will surely disagree with the last part of this response; however, I'm talking from experience and not promoting it as absolute.