Bow and Arrow Shooting Range Opens in Gowanus

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Gotham Archery, a 7,500-square–foot archery center, opens this week at Baltic and Nevins Streets in Gowanus. In case you’re wondering, an archery center is like the medieval version of a gun range: you stand around using a deadly weapon to shoot projectiles at a target, only that weapon is a bow and arrow. You know, just like Robin Hood and Link in Legend of Zelda.

“Literally anybody is able to do this sport,” says co-owner Ken Hsu, so feel free to bring along the kids and have them play with sharp sticks. There are 20 lanes for beginners and 10 for experienced archers. A $25 introductory class (mandatory for first timers) includes a 15 minute lesson from a certified instructor and 45 minutes of practice time.  “We’re…trying to make that first experience great.”

I don’t think they’ll have any trouble generating interest in a quirky, old timey activity. The dudes in the neighborhood already have the facial hair for it. They’re practically begging for this experience. It’s Medieval Times for the overeducated middle class urbanites. All that’s missing is a stroller-friendly mead micro-brewery next door that serves vegan turkey legs. Before long everyone’s going to be talking about joining an archery league.

The beginner’s lanes open this Friday. The experienced lanes open in 2 weeks, so advanced bowpeople will have to wait. Check out Gotham Archery’s website to learn more.

VIA GOWANUSYOURFACEOFF and DNAINFO