Tap a type, then enter your town or state to see the closest ranges and shops by name.
Enter your town or state, or use your location.
Shoot year-round, rain or shine
Indoor ranges have marked shooting lanes, usually at 18–20 yards (the distance used for indoor competitions), with target butts at the far end. Most rent bows and arrows by the hour and run a short safety briefing before your first session.
They're the easiest place to start, and many host weekly leagues where you can shoot with others.
Longer shots and woodland trails
Outdoor ranges add longer distances, often out to 70 meters for target archery. 3D courses are trails through the woods with life-size foam animal targets at unmarked distances, popular with bowhunters practicing for real conditions.
Many are run by archery clubs that charge a small day fee or annual membership.
Fitting, tuning and gear
A pro shop sells bows, arrows and accessories, and its technicians will fit a bow to you (draw length and draw weight), cut arrows to length, restring and tune bows. Many have a short range so you can test before you buy.
Getting fitted properly is the single biggest help for a new archer; ask before buying online.
Learn from a certified coach
Group classes and private lessons teach stance, anchor point, release and safety. Look for certified coaches; USA Archery runs coach certification and youth programs, often through local clubs.
Lessons usually include loaner equipment, so you don't need to buy a bow first.
Gear and guidance for the field
Bowhunting shops and outfitters focus on hunting gear: compound bows and crossbows, broadheads, treestands and scent control. Outfitters also run guided hunts.
Most states require a bowhunter education course before you can buy an archery hunting license, and seasons and legal equipment vary by state. Check your state wildlife agency.
Recurve: the Olympic bow. Its limb tips curve away from the archer for extra speed, and it's what most beginners learn on.
Compound: uses cams and cables so the holding weight drops at full draw. Very accurate and the most common bow for hunting.
Longbow and traditional: simple, often wooden bows shot without sights. Traditional archers value the feel and challenge.
Crossbow: a horizontal bow with a trigger. Legal for hunting in many states, with rules that vary.