A friend of mine recently told me about his new hobby of archery and led me to this site.  I've always been interested in archery, but haven't handeled a bow since the boy scouts in 1980...something.  Any suggestions on how to get started?

Welcome to the best site on traditional ways. There are many people here to help you get this thing going.

I would go and visit a local shoot or a traditional shop/archery lane and just get the feel for what you wanna be when you grow up. I'm still trying to figure that one out!

You're off to a good start by finding this site.  Enough information here to last a lifetime!  

Everything you need to know can be found here, but if you would prefer it to be all in one place in an organized format, one of the many traditional archery books would be a great investment.  The Traditional Bowhunter's Handbook by T.J. Conrads is one very good one that comes to mind.  I know 3 Rivers carries it, as do a number of the other sponsors listed in the sponsor list (Green box near the top of this page)
Welcome to a great sport!  

Jim, not sure where you are in Virginia but there is a really nice Archery gathering called the BALTIMORE Bowman traditional Classic on May 16. 17 and 18.  there is a website for them and a thread for the event under the Trad Events.  this would be one of the best and closest events you could attend.  I would suggest spending the weekend there as they have free camping.  Up until i moved out of the country i had done this event for 8 or 9 years in a row.  its a great gathering.  

If you are up for a bit of a ride there is the gathering at Denton Hill in Coudersport PA.  Its taking place July 24 to 27.  Check out the link provided for info.   http://www.skidenton.com/summer/

Denton Hill is probably the biggest event on the east coast boasting over 8000 visitors.  I will be going myself this years with some friends and my oldest son.   There will be lots to see and buy.   Bring a pocket full of cash with ya to both places.

There is the Traditional Bowhunters of Virginia and Maryland that are great groups to join.  You can find contact info on this site under the State trad Bowhunting Organizations.  these clubs can provide you with local shoots where you can meet the members.  

Good Luck, Jack

There is a great archery club in the Clifton area, Northern Virginia Archers. Not many trad shooters there, but I rarely see ANYONE there! I like that in a club! You are welcome to shoot with me there, if you are in the area.

I will be at Baltimore in May as well, along with lots of Trad Gang members who would love to have you shoot their bows.

Killdeer  

Jim is my buddy. I am the guy who referred him here. Jim - I will be going to Baltimore and camping there all weekend. If you could get it pass the Mrs. you, of course , are more than willing to camp with me.

Oh yeah Jim- If you come - I have a FREE bow that I will give you to keep forever and ever. It would be a good one for you to shoot over the weekend.