Did you know that in Illinois having a Firearms Owner Identification (FOID) card does not automatically authorize concealed carry? To obtain your Concealed Carry License (CCL) you must take a Concealed Carry class.

In a concealed carry class, you can expect to spend 16 hours learning about firearm safety, proper handling, and shooting from a certified instructor over two days. During the second half of day two, your instructor will have you do a live-fire exercise. 

By the end of the 2-day course, you’ll have all the resources and knowledge you need to be a safe and confident shooter and gun owner.

At Leo’s Guns and Range, you can expect the following from our concealed carry courses 

  • Firearm safety training 
  • Gun ownership responsibilities 
  • How to take care of your firearm 
  • Shooting practice 
  • Live-fire exercise 

If you’re new to gun ownership, you may have many questions about concealed carry. In this blog, we’ll give you a basic overview of what you can expect during your first class at Leo’s Guns and Range. 

Firearm safety and handling training 

You may already know some basic gun safety practices. Our course will teach you all of the necessary firearm handling techniques to ensure safety for yourself and others.

You’ll also learn the basic principles of marksmanship. These include grips, trigger control, body position, and more. Learning to control your body and surroundings will help you be a confident and safe shooter. 

Gun Ownership  

Your instructor will cover everything you need to know about being a responsible gun owner. You’ll learn how to properly disassemble, clean, and unload your firearm and the best practices for traveling with it and interacting with law enforcement. 

Additionally, the course will provide a thorough overview of relevant state and federal laws you need to know. By the end of the course, you’ll be equipped with everything you need to know about being a competent gun owner. 

Shooting Practice 

One of the most exciting parts of the course is trying out your skills on the shooting range. You’ll receive hands-on experience shooting a gun under the supervision of a certified instructor. They’ll teach you techniques like taking your gun out of the holster and loading it. 

Instructors will give you one-on-one training to safely load your gun, aim, and deal with the blowback. All of the experience will provide you with the confidence for the final part of the course, the live-fire exercise. 

Live-fire exercise 

Before you can finish the course, the state of Illinois mandates that you must complete a live-fire exercise. You will be responsible for shooting off at least ten rounds from various distances, including five, seven, and ten yards. 

The live-fire exercise demonstrates that you can properly handle and shoot a firearm. Once you pass this, you pass the class! You are now eligible to apply for your Illinois Concealed Carry License. 

Expert Advice at Leo’s Guns and Range 

At Leo’s Guns and Range, we offer monthly concealed carry courses. Our NRA Certified Instructor will teach you everything you need to know. They are also available to answer questions about firing, legal requirements, gun ownership, etc. 

As a beginner shooter, shooting in front of other people may be intimidating. That’s why we encourage you to practice at our indoor shooting range. 

Our large indoor range is the perfect place to safely practice different shooting techniques and apply your newfound knowledge. All of our classes include additional range time. 

Our concealed carry classes are $150, and renewal classes are $60. You must register beforehand, and payment is required at the time of registration. Here’s our upcoming schedule: 

  • July 13, 2024 & July 14, 2024 for full concealed carry class 
  • July 14, 2024 for renewal only 

For more information or questions or to register, call us at 779-210-7227