I started tinkering with bows in 1989. I worked in a mom and pop shop. worked on most of my stuff since, (til i needed a press) then I would HAVE to go to a shop. Then I bought my own press and started working in an archery shop part time. I then became the manager of that hunting department. I can do most things but it is nice to have the manuufacturers psec sheets when it comes to proper adjustments such as stings and cables, timiming marks, etc. I would say that I know a little more than the average joe.