Illinois State Rifle Association
The Illinois State Rifle Association (ISRA) isn't just a range—it's the primary advocate protecting gun owner rights across the state. Founded in 1903, ISRA operates with a mission that's expanded far beyond marksmanship: they defend your Second Amendment rights through legislation, litigation, and ...
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01 // OVERVIEW
Overview
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The Illinois State Rifle Association (ISRA) isn't just a range—it's the primary advocate protecting gun owner rights across the state. Founded in 1903, ISRA operates with a mission that's expanded far beyond marksmanship: they defend your Second Amendment rights through legislation, litigation, and education.
Three full-time salaried lobbyists work the Illinois General Assembly in Springfield when it's in session. That's the kind of sustained legislative presence most state gun groups can't afford. ISRA also:
- •Files lawsuits against unconstitutional gun laws (they're currently litigating against Illinois' semi-auto ban)
- •Publishes voting records so you know which politicians actually support gun rights
- •Tracks legislation and alerts members via Thursday Bulletins when action is needed
- •Runs sanctioned competitions that have been recognized for over 100 years
IGOLD (Illinois Gun Owner Lobby Day) brings shooters to Springfield to directly lobby representatives. Women shooters are increasingly showing up—the ISRA actively encourages female participation.
Location: 1589 N 7000 W Road, Bonfield, IL 60913 Phone: (815) 939-1909
The range hosts multiple competitive shooting programs:
| Competition Type | Details |
|---|---|
| F-Class | Long-range rifle competition |
| Air Rifle & Air Pistol Leagues | Indoor leagues for skill development |
| Muzzle Loading Championship | Black powder competition |
| MAG Classes | Massad Ayoob Group instruction (renowned defensive handgun trainer) |
| CCL Training | Concealed Carry License courses (3-hr renewal, 2-day full course) |
Upcoming CCL classes: - 3-hour Renewal & Qualification: January 31 - Full CCL Course: March 21-22 - Qualification dates: February 8, March 8
The ISRA Academy focuses on firearm safety and marksmanship excellence. Programs include:
- •Youth training: Jr. Olympics Training Camps and Junior State Championships
- •Adult education: Pistol 201 course (parts, operation, ammunition, safety)
- •Women's programs: Dedicated instruction and mentorship
- •Safety instruction: For new and experienced shooters
The organization traces its education mandate back to 1903, when the Education & Training Committee was created to train civilians in marksmanship—partly in preparation for potential military service. That focus on civilian competency and responsibility remains core to their mission today.
Why join?
- •Receive The Illinois Shooter quarterly newspaper with legislative updates and voting records
- •Access to ISRA-supported competitive events throughout the state
- •Legal advocacy from 3 full-time lobbyists protecting your rights
- •Legislative alerts via Thursday Bulletins so you're never caught off-guard
- •Support for youth firearm activities and safety training
- •Participation in ISRA Range memberships with access to facilities and competitions
"All it takes is $35 to become a member of the Illinois State Rifle Association, the Land of Lincoln's premier defenders of our 2nd Amendment rights."
Members receive an ISRA card and decals via mail.
IGOLD 2025 brought gun owners to Springfield to fight:
- •PICA (Protect Illinois Communities Act): A semi-auto gun ban and registry scheme ISRA is actively litigating
- •HB 3320 / SB 2279 (RIFL Act): Recent attempts to price out law-abiding citizens through fees and red tape
- •Safe Storage requirements: Firearms must be secured in safe devices under certain conditions
Federal Judge Stephen McGlynn ruled in November 2024 that Illinois' ban on commonly owned firearms is unconstitutional—but the state is appealing.
Main Office Illinois State Rifle Assn PO Box 637 Chatsworth, IL 60921 (815) 635-3198 [email protected]
Range 1589 N 7000 W Road Bonfield, IL 60913 (815) 939-1909
- •Sign up online
- •Renew membership online
- •Download membership form
- •Subscribe for email alerts
Safety Information
- •Check current conditions before visiting
- •Follow all posted safety guidelines
- •Respect other shooters and maintain safe distances
Restrictions
- •ISRA membership required for general range access
- •Eye and ear protection mandatory
- •All firearms must be unloaded until on firing line
- •Range safety rules and cease-fire commands must be followed
- •Age restrictions apply to youth programs
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