Home On the Range

One of the turning points in my early shooting career was joining an archery range. Whether you are experienced or a beginner it is perhaps one of the best, non-equipment investments you can make (a distant second to hiring an actual coach). Not only does it provide you with a location to shoot at, but more importantly it (as a broad abstract entity) can function much like a coach.  Shooting in public with other archers opens your own abilities up to scrutiny and it is this scrutiny by shooters more experienced than you that become teachable moments.

Now, when choosing where to put down your archery roots it is important to note that not all ranges are created equal. If you are so lucky as to have several options in your area, don't be afraid to shop around and carefully consider the following variables... undoubtedly I've forgotten some but off the top of my head...

1. Safety - No doubt you have, or should have, heard this a million times. Bows are weapons and broad head or not, they can kill. So safety should be a top priority.
   
   While I fortunately have not see it, I've heard of ranges staggering the shooting line rather than the target bales to establish different distances. Of course this means that you have one archer in front of the other in the line of fire. I don't care how far apart the two are, accidents happen. Look for a range that maintains a single shooting line.
   
   Also, make note of both the condition of the bales and their stands. A full sized (48x48in) bale is HEAVY and I personally would not want to have one fall on me. 
2. Indoor/Outdoor - Some ranges are both indoor and outdoor; some are only one or the other. It is up to your own preferences and goals to decided which is for you. Personally my two cents is, if you can't have both indoor and outdoor, go with indoor as you will be able to shoot year round (this is assuming you experience winter). 
3. Community - Generally speaking archers are friendly people, but like all humans; not always. Pay attention to the atmosphere. Are people talking and socializing? If not then, well, good luck getting advice or making friends.
4. Community pt2 - This may not matter too terribly much but it does factor into the equation. If, for example, a range fosters a community primarily around bow hunting and 3d, but you are shooting FITA recurve; then well you will be a bit of an oddity (not exactly a bad thing) and may not be able to get an abundance of advice or other resources. Probably make some fun friends though.

 And now if I may make an only thinly veiled promotional statement... For those of you in the Peoria area looking for a range to call home I would highly recommend Presleys Outdoors. It's been my archery home for the past year and I couldn't be more pleased. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, great community of target shooters and hunters, and they run regular leagues (both 3d and paper). Oh and they're a Hoyt authorized dealer.

Presleys Outdoors