But the thing is, a Bass Pro COULD have a good archery shop in it if the managers would put some effort into it, and resources, to hire more than some highschool kids to staff it. I think the BP here has one person who really knows archery and a bunch of novices doing most of the talking.

--Jim

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Disappointing? Heck yes!
I see it like this. I have a great relationship with the shop I frequent and I always give them first crack at my money. I understand how important they are to my hobby so I make sure they get my full support. They can usually get thier prices in line with any deal I can find, even mail order (after you figure shipping and all). I utilize the internet as much as possible and they know that, and we share lots of info which I think helps us all in the long run. They aren't as current on thier market knowledge as they could be (who's bowtech? drop-a-ways aren't worth carrying and hunters don't yet trust them. who's Merlin- just for instance) and they've screwd up my stuff before (like bending the crap out of the riser on my old Martin).
Reguardless, I don't fail to tell them how lucky I am to have them there and send as much buisiness thier way because guys- they're all we have around here.
They sure ain't perfect but I'd hate to see them go.
I'll even admit that I felt like the "pro" that has the bulk of thier brainpower treated me like an idiot when I first started to visit the shop; which I totally was. I built a "relationship" with family that owns and operates it and now I'm treated with respect and like a good friend. I feel like more than just a customer.
I guess you can say I recommend finding a good proshop.

We only have a small dealer that is open in the afternoons only.Otherwise we have to go 60 miles to the next one . they don't have a lot of bows but they tell you they can order it .Not much help if your just looking .

Reposted for Dusty9:

Hello DMW sorry to say the archery center in Monroe is closed. i was very dissapointed that it did. However if your familiar with Monroe (MI) Cooks Sportland is VERY open and they have excellent service. Located 5 miles north of the old archery center. if you need better directions i can certainly help you.
Dusty9

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We were hit with a new Bass Pro Shop in October just 7 miles away. Several bow shops closed their doors in anticipation. I understand that another long time gun and part time bow shop is also doing some thinking on the subject. I've also been told that the local Dick's (2 miles away) and the local Sport's Authority (2 1/2 miles away) are also hurting since the October opening of Bass Pro. We've also got several Wal-Marts and K-Marts within a 5 mile radius.

Top all this off with about 5 other archery shops within a 15 mile radius - that's plenty of competition. With this in mind, the key to staying alive is promoting your strengths. We dropped clothing, shoes and any items that are "standard" for the big guys. We make sure our customers know exactly what they are paying for and provide as much "after the sale" service as is possible. We try to give what the big guys can't give, that personal feeling, stocking bow parts that others don't, and expert repairs.

Next time you're visiting one of these big chains, ask them how many strings and cables they stock. Ask them if they are authorized factory repair centers. Ask them if they service what they sold two years ago. Ask them if they carry spare axles, cam modules, dacron strings, crossbow strings, 'e' clips, various fiber optic pins (not the sights - just the pins), etc.

It's a shame that so many have lost to the big guys and that so many more will fall. Do yourself a favor; if you have a "good" Pro Shop, support it. It may not be there tomorrow if you don't.

The two we used to have here in Texarkana closed down years ago. There's a couple still around within a 30 mile radius. Fortunately, one of the owners is a traditional shooter. That gives us a little variety of expertises (is that really a word?)

Sad thing is, it's happening all over, not just in the archery business. One of my best friends had an auto parts store that gave EXCELLENT customer service, could usually have a part by that afternoon if it wasn't in stock, but he just couldn't compete with the AutoZones, Advance Auto's, O'Reilly's, etc.

So much for the Mom-n-Pop operations.

Romans 8:28

Dusty9, I'm from the same area and your right on the money the shops are far a few between. I agree that Cabelas and all the other big name stores have done the damage. Check out Adams Archery it is south of Ypsilanti. The people there have been great to me and a very helpful. I think he closes shop for the winter but could be wrong. If you need direction shoot me a email.