ATA is a manufacturers' and product retailer show. It was never meant to be open to the public. The show is to introduce existing and new products to distribution and retail outlets. Most place their orders with manufacturers for the year. For the most part it is a one stop shop opportunity for most in the archery industry to do business for the year together. Being open to the public and/or selling to the public would undercut the intent of the show.

The show is huge and packed as is. If it were open to the public, you would not be able to move in there and no business would get done.

I have attended the show for the past 6 or 7 years. It is a good time. Once you have been though the awe factor wears off fast. It becomes all about business, just like in any other part of the working world. Still it is fun to meet up with old friends and every year there is at least one or two new products that will turn your head.