Exceltees

Barefoot Archery has served Charlotte archers for nearly 60 years. Current owner Jessie Smith took over in 1995 and transformed it into what he calls a true full-service center.

"You can buy a bow anyplace, but we take care of our customer from beginning to end. We're a full-service center. If you have anything you need done to your bows, we work on them. We build arrows. And we just generally promote archery."

• •Bow Service & Repairs - Complete maintenance and tuning
• •Custom Arrow Building - In-house arrow construction
• •USA Archery Approved Range - Eight lanes available for reservations
• •Equipment Rental - Bows and gear rental for range use
• •Classes - Group and individual instruction for all skill levels
• •Events & Parties - Host archery events at the range

Smith's background runs deep in archery and hunting. He's been bow hunting since childhood, won three state championships, and comes from the Lumbee Tribe of Native Americans—the largest tribe in North Carolina and east of the Mississippi River.

The shop's staff are hunters with years of experience. Over the past 25 years, they've taught thousands of children to shoot, introducing new generations to the sport through youth organizations and family classes.

As a transit hub, Charlotte sees plenty of traveling archers looking for a shop. Barefoot Archery has become the go-to destination. The shop offers branded merchandise that serves both as souvenirs for visitors and gear for local competitors shooting at regional matches.