RE: How friendly is your local shop??
The shop down in NC the archery guys are great, i go in sometimes after work just to chat, they are very helpful and great people to talk to.
The shop up here in VA the guy is a nice guy but thats it. If it aint something he's selling its no good at all. I.E. "PSE" Its the best and your bow aint worth crap. He gets on my nerves, but he is a nice guy and i dont mind having a conversation with him.