So I just took this class in order to get my Concealed Carrying License for the state of Illinois and I wanted to write a review while the experience is still fresh in my memory because the instructor was so amazing! The state requires 16 hours to receive a license and I heard great things about this trainer, believe it or not from a message board. The trainer, Gerald Vernon, has handling firearms for 40 years and it showed in the class structure, the level of information, and the focus on safety. Some instructors only have a certificate from the local NRA ad struggle to find information to fill a 16 hour class, in this program, the instructor had a hard time taking out information, because he had such a breadth of knowledge.
Here are some of the things you'll learn:
*The correct way of holding a firearm
*Which states your FOID covers
*Restricted areas for firearms here in Illinois
*Firearms and parking lot safety zones
*Types of firearms and how to clean them
*Firearm transportation
*Firearm scenarios (what if's)
There was only one other person in the class with me when I took the class, so we were able to practice on cardboard, paper targets, left and right hand only (my favorite part!) and dislodging firearm malfunctions (firearm jams). In between shooting we learn how to charge a magazine.
Please note, on the first day, breakfast will be served as well as lunch. The second day I recommend eating before you get to the gun range. Lunch will be provided from a sheet you filled out on the first day. It's also required to wear pants with belt loops and a belt on both days of the program. This is because on the first day you'll learn how to conceal, draw from a gun from a holster and place it back it that you'll use for the gun range on day two. If you don't have a gun you can rent on for $25. And you DO NOT NEED A FOID to take this class. Just so you know.
If you are looking for firearm instruction on the Southside, please consider taking Gerald Vernon and actually get your money's worth. It's one thing I can't stand is when you pay a car note on a class and you basically get nothing out of it. You don't get that from basic teachers only out for a quick buck. read more