Illinois Gun Class

Illinois Gun Class operates out of Mid-Oak Plaza in Midlothian, offering two core courses: a concealed carry certification class and a defensive shooting skills course. Both are taught by Gary Carr, a retired police officer certified by the United States Concealed Carry Association and Illinois as both an instructor and police trainer.

The introductory concealed carry course is built for anyone 21+ with a valid Illinois ID who isn't prohibited by law from owning firearms. You don't need shooting experience—the class covers:

• •Handgun operation: Components, mechanics, loading, unloading, maintenance
• •Shooting fundamentals: Grip, stance, sight alignment, trigger control
• •Firearms safety: Safe storage, handling, transportation, and safety devices
• •Legal use of force: Understanding reasonable force, deadly force, the force continuum, and when force is legally justified
• •Legal aftermath: How to handle the immediate and long-term consequences of a defensive shooting
• •Personal safety planning: Situational awareness, conflict avoidance, color codes of awareness
• •Gear selection: Holster types, retention systems, belts, lights, lasers
• •Illinois carry law: State-specific requirements and restrictions
• •Live range time: Supervised shooting under instructor guidance

Successful graduates are eligible to apply for the Illinois Concealed Carry License (CCL), which is currently recognized in 34 states.

The advanced course is for students who already have firearms experience and want to sharpen defensive techniques. This hands-on class emphasizes:

• •Practical defensive mechanics and tactics for real-world scenarios
• •Balance between speed and accuracy in shot placement
• •Stance and movement for stability during dynamic incidents
• •Malfunction clearing and immediate action drills
• •Presentation from the holster—the draw stroke
• •Multiple defensive shooting drills

Private lessons are also available by appointment.

For the concealed carry class: - Valid Illinois ID or driver's license - Pen and notebook - No firearms in the classroom (rent one if needed) - Cash for rental fee if applicable

For defensive shooting: - Semi-automatic pistol - Quality holster - Multiple magazines and magazine carrier - Suitable belt - Eye and ear protection

Gary Carr brings law enforcement background and formal USCCA credentials to every class. He's licensed as an Illinois Certified Instructor and Illinois Certified Police Trainer, and he uses the United States Concealed Carry Association's curriculum and training materials.

Classes are held at Illinois Concealed Carry Training, LLC in Mid-Oak Plaza (4828 148th Street, Midlothian). Pace Bus stops at 142nd and Cicero; there's also parking in the lot across the street.

Illinois CCLs are valid for 5 years. Before enrolling, understand that carrying a concealed handgun is a significant responsibility—not a lifestyle choice. The course emphasizes that if you're unwilling to accept the legal, financial, and moral weight of carrying, you shouldn't do it.