Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

Categories:

Range

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Range

What is the size of the AJ Archery range?

There are 12 target bales with a maximum shooting distance of 20 yards. Distances are marked on the floor at 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 feet and at 18 meters. There is also a spectator-classroom area, a workshop and an office.

Are there times that I can practice at the Range? What is the cost?

At this time, Open Range time is not available. (Since all time on the range is by appointment only, you must call to schedule Open Range time. You can also schedule your time during most weekly group lessons as Coach AJ allows Open Range time during them, if there is room. You must call ahead to schedule for all times. There is no Open Range time during private coaching sessions. The Open Range cost is $10 for the hour.)

Can I use my own bow and other archery equipment at the AJ Archery Range?

Yes, you may, but only after inspection by Coach AJ.

How can I pay for my time at AJ Archery?

You can pay by either cash or check. Only credit cards may be used to pay online for Date Nights, Instructor Courses or the Roberta Smith Archery Memorial.

What is the youngest age you teach?

The youngest students are 3 years old - Coach AJ has taught a few 2 years old. They must be able to follow direction, have enough dexterity to hold and operate the equipment with a certain ability to stay focused. We will evaluate during the first few lessons as needed.

Is there any specific AJ Archery apparel?

Not at this time.

What is the meaning of "Level 3-NTS Coach"?

The Level 3-NTS Coach Certification moves away from a group instruction and focuses on individual athlete development. Level 3-NTS Coaches are educated in coaching philosophy, event preparation, mental skills, training cycles and plans, equipment tuning and advanced instruction on the National Training System (NTS) for Recurve and Compound. They also may train Level 1 and Level 2 Instructors.

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Equipment

What kind of bow should I buy to bring to my first AJ Archery lesson?

None, use the AJ Archery equipment to know what you need/want before purchasing.

Do you have equipment I can use in my lessons?

Yes, actually Coach AJ has over 100 bows available of different sizes and draw weights for just about anyone whether right-handed or left-handed. You will start with equipment to fit your ability and size (height & arm length). The smallest bow weight is 7 pounds and the heaviest is at 50 pounds. Coach AJ prefers you use the AJ Archery recurves to start. However, if you have your own equipment, please bring it so we can integrate it into your lessons when we are able.

Can I shoot my crossbow or high poundage compound on your range?

No, the targets are not for crossbows.

Do you teach bow hunters and others how to use a compound bow?

Yes, Coach AJ actually started out shooting a compound bow and has also hunted 8 seasons - deer, pheasant and turkey

Do you handle equipment repairs or sell equipment?

No, there is no Retail Shop since Coach AJ would rather spend time coaching.

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Scheduling

Do you offer morning, daytime or weekend sessions for those who work second or third shift?

We can find a time that works well for both yours and Coach AJ's schedules.

Do you offer anything for couples? What is the cost?

Yes, Coach AJ's Date Nights are a popular choice for $60 per couple with up to 6 couples per session. Visit the Date Night page to register online for a session on the range with your significant other.

Can groups schedule times at the Range?

Yes, contact Coach AJ to schedule sessions for groups: Scouts, Church groups, homeschooling, daycares, family, friends, co-workers, Team Building, Bachelor & Bachelorette parties, family reunions, birthday parties, other groups or special occasions.

What happens if I need to miss a lesson?

Be sure to contact Coach AJ as soon as you know you need to reschedule. 24-hr notice or earlier is best - by text or call.

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Lessons

What is covered in a typical lesson whether group or private coaching?

Lessons begin with a series of stretching movements that are introduced in the student(s) first lesson. For future lessons, these stretches are done just prior and then after each lesson. Some lessons may contain conditioning information specific to student(s) needs. Hydration and Mental Management are part of every lesson. Targets used during lessons are dependent on student(s) progress and goals. Each student shoots the entire time except for breaks. New students shoot a lower number of arrows, while progressing to larger numbers. According to Coach AJ, "It's all about Form and not the little yellow dot down there". This makes Form a major part of every lesson. And, of course, FUN and Safety are in every lesson.

Can I bring a friend to my lesson? Can they shoot with me?

Yes, bring a friend and be sure to confirm with Coach AJ prior to class. Coach AJ will determine if they can shoot with you, but they possibly may only shoot during a break with Coach AJ.

When are your weekly group lessons and maximum number in lessons?

Beginner - Tuesdays 4pm (Youth & Adult), Tuesdays 6pm (Youth & Adult), Wednesdays 7:15pm (Adult only), Thursdays 6:45pm (Youth & Adult), Fridays 4:30pm (Youth & Adult). Intermediate/Advanced - Tuesdays 7:15pm. Intermediate/Advanced - Thursdays 5:30pm. Class size is limited. Since AJ Archery class sizes are small, students shoot more. Thus, in some classes most students will shoot 100+ arrows in an hour even with breaks.

At what distance do your weekly group lessons shoot? What kind of targets?

The Beginner Group shoots from either 20', 30' or 40' depending on students in class. The Intermediate/Advanced Group shoots from 50', 60' or 18 meters depending on students in class. All students begin with either a blank bale or 10-ring paper target. Progression in class allows students to shoot at the following targets: 3 Spot Vegas, 5 Spot, Horizontal 3 Spot, Vertical 3 Spot, Critters (animal), Tic-Tac-Toe, Balloon Cards, Apples and other specialized targets.

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Scouts

Can I schedule my Girl Scout Troop to earn the Archery Patch or my Scouts BSA Troop to earn the Archery Merit Badge? What is the cost?

Yes, contact Coach AJ to schedule a time usually on a weekend for a 4 or 5-hour time slot being dependent on the number of scouts. The cost is $20 per scout. There is a workbook to complete prior to the session on the range for the Scouts BSA Scouts, which Coach AJ will send to the leader.

Can I schedule Scouts BSA Scouts who need to complete the shooting/scoring requirement for just that part of the merit badge? What is the cost?

Yes, contact Coach AJ to schedule. The cost is $5 per scout.

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Instructor Courses

Do you teach the Level 1 and Level 2 Archery Instructor Courses? How often are courses offered?

Yes, Coach AJ teaches both Level 1 and Level 2 Archery Instructor Courses. Check the website page for online registration details and forms. Typically, Instructor courses are offered at AJ Archery several times a year.

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Competitive Archery

Have any of the AJ Archery students participated in competitive archery?

Yes, several of Coach AJ's students have competed at the US Archery National Indoor Championships during years 2016 - 2020 & 2022.

Has Coach AJ ever competed in an archery tournament?

Yes, Coach AJ has competed in the US National Indoor Championships during years 2014 - 2020 & 2022. Competing in 2016 - 2020 & 2022 while coaching students those same years. Coach AJ had also competed in the Lancaster Archery Classic in Lancaster, PA in 2017 - 2020 & 2022 and at The Vegas Shoot in Las Vegas, NV in 2017.

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