A group of three of us decided to throw on green tights and take some lessons here. It's an old school shop, and it reminds me of the kind of place my Grandpa used to take me when I was a kid where a bunch of old dudes would stand around smoking indoors. Thankfully, the only smoking going on here was the one from my bow while I was shooting bullseyes! Okay, so that is a slightly embellished statement. I am a beginner. The man that greeted us did so in a very kind manner and was patient and informative in setting us up. He practiced our 'release' with us, even though he was not our instructor. Once our teacher was ready, we went over to the lesson range. His name was Pete and he was pretty funny and informative. His reactions and the faces he made when we goofed up were priceless. He gave us great tips and gently instructed us after each shot. My favorite statement of his was "now, don't think about anything I just told you!" We had a blast, and are inclined to come back for another lesson. Of course, I already want to buy a bow and go running around the woods (but not to kill anything.) I will check myself though, as I don't want to wreck myself. After all, it could be bad for my health. Instead, next time we will come back to the Archery Custom shop in real stealth form. read more

Incredible customer service here! I came in to get help setting up my new recurve bow and to also purchase arrows, and the two gentlemen in the store were fantastic. They were friendly and perfectly professional, and both were highly knowledgeable on how to setup and fine tune my new bow. They answered all my questions (no matter how ridiculous they might have been!). Afterward, I went to their range to test out the bow and was pleasantly surprised. Although I had my own supplies, they had rentable equipment for individuals to use and shoot too. I'm sure I'll be back, and I plan to bring friends to check out the range as well! read more

Archery Custom Shop - Indoor range, first attempt with my new bow - Archery Near Me - Forest Park, Illinois

Awesome staff. Very helpful gave my son several tips on how to shoot and take care of his bow. Answered all my questions in great detail. read more

Archery Custom Shop - Archery Near Me - Forest Park, Illinois

Went in for an intro lesson. They did everything right, and we had a lot of fun. 1 star off just for being so un-remodeled. I get the old-school charm, but would like to see the place a little more modern. Can't speak to the sales/service side but it looked legit. read more

Cool shop with a good archery range. The shop is pretty extensive, they have all sorts of bows (compound, wooden, etc) and every other equipment you need from arrows to hats and jackets. We came here to shoot around at the range. They have two ranges, one is on the ground floor, which isn't as cool because everyone including the owner can watch you (I'm not a fan since I'm a beginner and I hate being watched). The upstairs is more secluded, it has about 6 lanes. Rental equipment was cheap, we paid $12 each for about 1.5 hours of shooting which included the bow, arrows, gloves and forearm shiver thing. I had a lot of fun, I recommend this place for beginners and experts. oh and I forgot to mention that they have all different targets to shoot at, close, far, paper targets and even balloons (you have to blow them up yourself though) read more

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Looking for something fun to do outside of your normal routine? Come here! I had notice this place while walking up Madison street. eventually came back one day and seen there was someone being taught how to hold and aim the bow. Found out that it was VERY inexpensive to get lessons and that you can learn very quickly and once you take the first class you can come back on your own and practice... came back later that night and my instructor was very patient and attentive. Not a bad first date ice breaker. read more

Archery Custom Shop - Archery Near Me - Forest Park, Illinois

Owner has a poor attitude and turned away business, money and the chance for a return customer because of his terrible customer service.

Great shop. I've actually been her twice; once back in July purchase a long arm guard, and the it was quick and easy, in and out. I haven't used the range, but I went in yesterday to get outfitted with my first bow and accessories. Jim helped me, and he was so patient and knowledgeable, didn't rush me, and was patient in showing me how to take down my bow and string it. They have a good collection of both compound and recurve bows for sale, and they carry metal and wooden risers. They sell a lot of accessories and leading brands: SF Archery, Black Widow, Bohning, Easton, Matthews, and so on. One thing I really appreciate is that I wasn't pushed into buying a bunch of stuff, unnecessary accessories, or expensive gear. I was offered the chance to try it out on the range, but declined (I didn't want to make a fool of myself!) When I asked about a bow that was $100 more than the one I purchased, I was given honest advice and allowed to make my own decision. (I chose the less expensive one, which he enthusiastically endorsed, and I'm dying to shoot it.) I was there for probably an hour testing out a couple different risers, trying out a couple different draw weights, etc. I ended up leaving with my first bow, a case, finger tab, bow stringer, stabilizer, and arrows. A man whom I think must be the owner also came out and talked with us for several minutes when Jim was helping me get everything put away to leave. I don't get to Forest Park a lot. I really appreciate the patience to help outfit someone who hasn't been involved in archery very long with all the necessary basics, so if I'm looking for some new equipment this will be one of the shops I look to. Something I feel is important to mention: If you purchase a riser here, you may want to ask what colors the manufacturer offers. I asked about what colors it came in, and they showed me the three that they had in stock; I assumed those were the only colors. When I was looking online at a few other things, I saw that this riser comes in about 7 different colors. Luckily, the color I ended up with is probably the one I would have chosen anyway. They should be able to order something for you if you want a color/style/etc. that they don't carry regularly. And I can't recommend Jim highly enough! read more

Archery Custom Shop is, overall, an ok place. I have been here many times, and am overall happy with their range. This shop features two twenty yard indoor ranges. The ranges are is good shape, however the target blocks on the first floor range are a bit hard, which may lead to your arrow being damaged or simply bouncing off. Range fees are $8 per hour plus $0.50 for a paper target. Range plus rental will run $12 and includes everything you need. The rental arrows are older aluminum arrows, Rental bows are all older recurves with weights ranging from 15 - 42 lbs. The owner is biased against Fred Bear bows. read more

Archery Custom Shop - Archery Near Me - Forest Park, Illinois

My wife and I live nearby, had passed this place a few times, and finally came in on a quiet Friday evening for the 1-hr intro lesson. As we were the only guests and there wasn't much retail activity, both of the men working that evening, Nate and Jim, worked with us. Ended up giving us closer to an hour and twenty minutes, as there was no one coming for the next slot. Both of us were able to pop the balloons on the target several times by the end of it. I took off a star because it was cash only, which was not mentioned at any point (not on the website, etc.), and it was very irritating having to go to the bar next door to use the ATM. I found that very disappointing and unreasonable. read more

This place is my local go to archery shop for bow enhancement and custom arrows. The range is great for practice and tuning.

Solid shop but too bad that they dont touch crossbows. But they ll take care of your other archery needs.

The only thing more outdated than the products in this space is the owner's knowledge of archery. When asked for help with a bow, I was told to look it up followed by "it's not worth the time for how little money I would make helping you" read more

This place is great. It's a bit old school, but it's a really great mom and pop shop with a much better selection than what you're going to find at Bass Pro Shops, Cabela's or any of the other big box outdoors stores that just happen to sell archery goods. I went in today to buy my first recurve bow and they did a very thorough job of helping me pick a bow that was good for me and gave me plenty of range time with it to make sure it was a bow with which I'd be comfortable. While doing so, they even gave me a number of pointers to improve my anchor, stance and aiming, all of which helped a lot. Great advice considering I wasn't there for a lesson. The ranges are nice as well. All of the shop staff were plenty friendly and eager to help. Anyway, I'm really happy with both my purchase and the service. I look forward to returning for range time and some lessons. I recommend this place highly if you're into archery. read more

This place is one of the ONLY Archery shops that offers lessons. $30 for adults, $25 for children. There are two 20 Yard shooting ranges with moveable targets on wheels. $8 per hour if you have your own equipment; $12 if you rent theirs. Upstairs you will find an entire wall of recurve bows, just pick and choose what feels comfortable to you. The staff is very helpful and you'll likely meet regulars who will give you advice if you're new to the sport as I was. I may even consider going bow-hunting in due time. read more

Took lesson with Hubs for date night. It was fun- although my 8th grade awesomeness didn't return immediately.

I came in here yesterday for a lesson, and was not disappointed! As a complete newbie to archery, I was pleasantly surprised with how much I learned in a single hour. The instructor who worked with me was incredible friendly and knowledgeable (not to mention patient!). I arrived about fifteen minutes late for the session, but still got a full hour of instruction since the person scheduled after me didn't show up (their loss). The shop itself has a very comfortable, cozy feel to it, and the staff is incredibly friendly. After my lesson, the instructor gave me a quick rundown on the pricing of various bows, but didn't come off like a pushy salesman at all. He invited me to come and use their upstairs range a few times before deciding which (if any) bow to use. The super nice lady behind the counter (I'm really regretting not asking her name) also gave me some very good advice about the archery vendors at the Bristol Ren Faire (long story short, quivers are nice, stay away from their bows). There wasn't a single aspect of my visit here that wasn't incredibly fun and informative. They offer one on one lessons at $30 per hour ($25 for kids), and time on their upstairs range at $15 per hour. I strongly suggest anyone interested in learning how to use any sort of bow stop by here to get started! The one annoying thing I feel I should mention is not the shops fault in any way. The construction in the areas a few blocks away from the shops is TERRIBLE. Whatever your estimated travel time is, add an additional twenty minutes just to be on the safe side. read more

Called in advance to see what arrow brand and models available...he knew exactly what he had. I told him I'm shooting from tree stand and avg shot 20 yards. He measured my draw 29" 60#, told him wanted something around 400 grs w/ 100gr broad. He cuts it down and puts on scale 400 grs on dot arrow. I ended up getting pse sniper 2 300s 8.9gpi....29" length I think. I didn't use range because it wasn't free. Reason for 4 star. The man understands his carbon arrows. Price of arrows included everything... read more

$12 to go shoot arrows for "an hour" but really is as long as you want. This place is awesome. It is like a dive bar but for archery places.

Went out this weekend to buy some arrows and shoot. The owner (Terry) was very knowledgable and friendly. A lot of customers and regulars came through, who were likewise willing to share their opinions and experiences. The prices seem reasonable, and can even be acknowledged as cheap once one realizes he fletches his own shafts then measures and constructs the arrows to order on the spot. The ranges are well designed and spacious. Overall, a great experience. read more

Came in today to tune up my new bow and score some new arrows. Terry and Jim were awesome! A couple of cool guys with a ton of patience with us newbies. Answered all my questions exposing there many years of experience. Will definitely recommend them to my crew. read more

Archery Custom Shop has a fine indoor range, especially for Chi winter shooting, and plenty of supplies for compound, long, and recurve bows. Range time is reasonably priced and easy to come by. Terry, the owner, is friendly, approachable and willing to answer any archery questions. Though I have not taken lessons here, often see children and adults alike. The only thing missing is space for an outdoor 3-d target range. read more

I come here weekly to shoot and love it. It's clean, well-lit, and full of professionals who are happy to help with any questions. There are classes, and also equipment available for anyone who might just be beginning. Great place - hope to keep coming here for years to come! read more

Stopped in with my daughter just now. Pete and the staff were incredibly friendly and accommodating to us. Graciously taught us how to shoot. Friendly. Happy to see us getting joy from shooting for the first time in forever. Just a great place. We'll be back. read more

I was a nervous beginner going to get basic maintenance on my purchase of a used compound bow. The owner was incredibly kind and knowledgeable. Charged me a fair price on the work and offered legitimate upgrades without actually pressuring me or taking advantage of my lack of knowledge in the sport. I drive all the way from the burbs just to get to him. read more

They had really good products but they were very rude. I told them when I went that I was not experienced and was just starting out with archery. Knowing this they continued to insult me about my lack of experience. They insulted me probably about 5 times before I left the store. All they said was you have sucky form, you should spend more of your hard earned money and take lessons from us so we can be jerks to you some more. They didn't even tell me what I was doing wrong, they just made me mad. Bottom line, they had great equipment but are complete tool bags. Correction: When I say they I just mean whoever showed us the bows. There was another guy working in the store that was nice to us. read more

Totally interesting. Stopped in while mosey-ing around down the street and asked about archery. Here's what I learned: _Archery could be pretty affordable to get into with the initial supplies being around $200 total to get ya' ready to shoot arrows. _They seemed to have a lot of stock and options _The gentleman at the counter was nice and told us about the archery range and how you could get lessons, rent time, etc. _As I walked out a gaggle of Boy Scouts came tromping in - Now that's what I'm talking about...Boy Scouts + Archery! Classic! I'd like to go back and rent to the whole place for an hour or two and have friends come get a lesson...archery party anyone? read more

Walked by millions of times but tried for the first time. Had an hour one-on-one class. It's a lot of fun. Coach Jim was very patient and pinned point my problems. Will go back for more fun! read more

After an archery lesson at another store, I was looking for a nice way into the sport. I found this shop minutes from my house and stopped in after work. Upon entering the store, I walked around for a minute or two before the man behind the counter said anything. He asked what he could do for me - replying I'm looking for info on how to get into the sport. To this, I received no response. At least no verbal response. After my surprise had worn off, I left the store. Being a person of color, I initially thought there was an issue of race. After reading other reviews, maybe it's my lack of experience, I'm not sure. What I know is that is I felt incredibly uncomfortable with this interaction. I am disappointed with my customer experience, I hope that yours is better. read more

Terry is the best hands down. Nice to have an old school shop still around I've been going 25+ years. So much knowledge in that shop. He's forgot more than most will ever know about Archery. read more

Excellent archery shop! Nate and Pete and Jack are very knowledgeable, and happy to help newbies and experienced archers alike! Range fees are very reasonable, and they do have a large selections of bows - longbows, recurves - if you are into traditional shooting. Prices are very competitive, and it is ALWAYS best to get a custom fit bow and arrows. Really helps your game! read more

If you enjoy slow service, high prices and insulting attitude, then this is the place for you! If you own all of your own equipment and just plan on using the range, then it's not a bad deal. However, if you don't want to be treated like they are doing you a favor by letting you spend money there, then this is not the place for you! I've been to the Archery Custom Shop about 5 times, and every time I was treated like an idiot, and have over 25 years of archery experience. read more

Been going to Custom Archery for years. Most of the archers at my club go there. The staff are wonderful. You go for a purchase and stay for the folks. And they really take care of you with strong advice and product knowledge. I won't go to a "big box" store anymore because Custom has shown me how good it can be. Highly recommend Custom for your archery needs. read more

I brought my niece and her cousin (14&16) for an introductory lesson and to purchase a 1st bow for my niece. I had read some reviews about bad service so I was prepared for that. I needn't have been. Everyone in the building was down to earth, friendly, helpful & knowledgeable. There was some sarcasm, but if you leave yourself open like I did ya really kinda have it coming...hah. We came ridiculously early and actually started our lesson a bit late, no big deal, we were informed nicely that they were running behind and I have no problem with that, things happen. While we waited for our lessons my niece was fit for proper weight bow and given some basic instruction and I had a bow being serviced so when our time came we were ready and got right into one of the best learning experiences these kids have had. We were the last lesson and we probably got 25 extra minutes on it even counting the late start. We purchased 1 new bow a doz new arrows, a handful of accessories for both bows & left having spent less than I thought we would. I have nothing but praise for this business, the people that run it and the way they do it. The kids both feel the same. They left here as excited as I have ever seen them & inspired to continue with the sport of archery. What more could I ask for? read more