| SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois State Police (ISP) announced today it will offer its open range program to the public for the purpose of sighting in shotguns and handguns for the upcoming deer season. This year, the firing range in Elgin will be open to the public on Saturday, November 6, while the firing ranges in Joliet, Metamora, Pawnee, Macomb, and LaSalle will be open on Saturday, November 13. All ranges will be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
"Each year before the hunting season begins, the Illinois State Police and Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR) offers this program to firearm owners to check their guns in a safe environment. It also provides an opportunity for ISP and DNR experts, who will be at each range to ensure safe and appropriate use of firearms, to promote hunting safety" said ISP Director Larry G. Trent.
The public is asked to call one of the ranges listed below before the scheduled date to make a reservation. Targets will be provided and there is no charge for use of the range. Participants must possess a valid Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card and transport the firearm legally by having it unloaded and enclosed in a case. | Open Ranges | | District 2 | Elgin | 847-931-2407 | | District 5 | Joliet | 815-726-6377 - Extension 223 | | District 8 | Metamora | 309-383-2133 - Extension 238 | | District 9 | Pawnee | 217-786-6278 | | District 14 | Macomb | 309-833-4046 - Extension 242 | | District 17 | LaSalle | 815-224-1171 - Extension 117 | |
