Ducsauce, I just started shooting 3D. Went to my first on Memorial weekend and have been shooting one every weekend since. Went to my first big IBO shoot over the weekend. I went with a friend and I shot a 329 out of 440. We met 2 other guys and had a great time. Since your the only bow hunter among your friends look for guys on here or just go looking to meet new friends. Everyone is real friendly. Most people like they have said are out to just have fun.
Most shoots allow binoculars (IBO only allows up 8.5 power). No rangefinders, shouldn't need them any way this is a way to practice guessing yardage for the real thing.
Good luck
Ron