Our expert instructors have military, law enforcement, and professional backgrounds. We offer small class sizes, a legal curriculum (developed by a judge/attorney/sheriff), 1-on-1 range sessions, NRA training, in-class laser pistol practice, included materials/targets, and hands-on holster and firearm selection training for IL and WI Concealed Carry.

Eligibility varies by course. Minors under 18 must be with a parent/guardian. Students with disabilities should notify us in advance for possible accommodations, but some conditions may prevent live-fire training. All students must sign a 5 Star Firearms range waiver and a Gurnee Pistol Academy safety waiver at the start of class.

Most classes require students to be at least 12. By state law, CCL applicants must be 21 or older. Youth safety and range classes are available by appointment; under 18 must have a parent or legal guardian present.

Illinois residents can apply after completing 16 hours of state-required training (GPA Phase 1 and 2) and a live-fire range qualification with an NRA instructor. The state may take up to 120 days to process your application. Only Illinois residents are eligible.

Applicants need 4 hours of state-approved training (GPA’s class meets this). After class, submit your application to the Wisconsin DOJ; typical processing is 21 days.

Applicants must be 21 or older (18–20 for provisional), complete a Utah-certified class with GPA, and submit fingerprints. The class includes fingerprinting and application help.

No, fingerprints are not required. Applying without fingerprints may mean additional review and a longer wait, but many students skip them to avoid extra costs.

Most classes take place at 5 Star Firearms, 41666 N Sheridan Rd, Zion, IL 60099. Some may be held at other locations—contact GPA if you have questions.

Check your email for reminders. Common items: notepad, pen, highlighter, drink, snacks, and lunch. If attending at 5 Star Firearms, vending machines and an ATM are on-site, and you’ll have time to visit a local restaurant for lunch.

No. Firearms and ammunition are not allowed in the classroom unless specifically stated in pre-class emails or approved in advance by your instructor. Keep your firearm secured in your vehicle until told otherwise.

Yes. Bringing your personal firearm to range coaching is encouraged but not required. Firearms must be unloaded and secured in a gun case or range bag, with ammunition stored separately before entering the building. Do not use shipping boxes as gun cases.

Illinois CCL applicants and renewals must qualify with an NRA instructor by shooting 30 rounds into a B-27 target: 10 rounds each at 5, 7, and 10 yards. Instructors will guide you throughout.

Private, personalized live-fire training with an NRA instructor, focused on your skill level and goals. Sessions cover grip, stance, sight alignment, trigger control, range etiquette, and marksmanship.

Yes, current and former military and first responders get 10% OFF all classes and private lessons. Enter code THANKYOU when booking. Verification (DD-214, certificate, or valid ID) is required—bring a copy to class or upload during registration.

Yes, if you take a private lesson, you get 10% off your first Concealed Carry class. Just mention your private lesson when you register