Ranges / Training in Chicago

[SomeJewishGuy]

Our country, and the world, being what they are today (and with handguns legal in Chicago now!) I got an Illinois FOID a couple of months ago. I'd like to get a Chicago permit, for which training is required. A few questions, for anyone, even non-LEO, who cares to answer:

What's a good range to practice at driving distance from the Northside? (I'll be starting on my parents' .38 special, which resides in the suburbs).

Any recommendations vis-a-vis a class? They're all taught by LEOs, anybody know of, or gone to, a particularly good one?

Would it be worth going shooting once or twice with a friend before taking a class, or just let that be my first time at a range?

[SomeJewishGuy]

Hmmmmm... a full day with no replies.

Okay then, maybe just tell me what you had for dinner, and after we break the ice that way, give me your thoughts about hitting the range first in a class setting or with a more experienced friend...

[Gumtree]

Hmmmmm... a full day with no replies.

the forum is fairly quiet at the moment

[SomeJewishGuy]

So a Rabbi, a Priest, and a Minister walk into a bar, and the bartender says "what is this, a joke?!"

[JoetheGI]

Can't help you with the Chicago area, however, I'd recommend the following:

1. Seek out a basic handgun training class taught by a competent instructor.
- "Friends" may or may not be a good source of training as experience and training determines the competence of the shooter AND the instructor. Many "friends" really don't much about shooting, SAFETY, or teaching, despite the supposed "years" of experience they may have.

2. Search for a USPSA or IDPA club near your area and participate regularly.
- These are competition clubs that have some of THE best handgun shooters in the nation. You can learn a lot about shooting through their experience, will have regular practice through competition, and WILL learn how to run your gun, and keep it running.

3. Search for and attend a course dealing with the lawful use of deadly force for civilians.
- Preferably one that also conducts practical exercises. The more knowledge you gain about your respective state law, the better you will be able to recognize when the use of deadly force is justified, and when it is not.

Firearms are not magic talismans that automatically make one immune from criminal harm. They require dedication to operate effectively, SAFELY, and in accordance with your local law. Formalized training, and consistent sustainment training, is a necessity for any that choose to be a responsible armed citizen imo, and there are NO guarantees in a gunfight, no matter how proficient you may be.

The last thing to consider is whether or not you are capable of being responsible for the death of another. Often times this issue is not seriously taken into consideration, however, you must be prepared for the psychological consequences of using deadly force, as well as the legal consequences. It can be a very traumatic experience for many, and given the chance to do it again, many would have chosen a different course of action.

Good luck regardless.

[SomeJewishGuy]

Wow! A response! Thanks --really-- for the advice, and enjoy dinner.