Hunters given an opportunity to sight-in shotguns before deer hunting season

SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois State Police (ISP) announced today its firing ranges will be open on November 14 to hunters for sighting in and test-firing their shotguns in a safe environment for the upcoming deer hunting season. Firing ranges in Joliet, Pontiac, Pawnee, Effingham, Pecatonica, and LaSalle will be available to the public from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“The Illinois State Police, in cooperation with the Department of Natural Resources, will again offer the Open Range Program to hunters to sight-in their shotguns before the upcoming hunting season,” said ISP Director Jonathon Monken. “This annual program provides firearm experts from the State Police and Natural Resources with an opportunity to promote hunting safety by ensuring the safe and appropriate use of shotguns.”

“The Open Range Program is another great way for hunters to hone their skills and practice safety by making sure their firearm is in proper working order and sighted accurately. We're happy to partner with the Illinois State Police on such a worthwhile program for our hunters," said Illinois Department of Natural Resources Director Marc Miller.

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.

District	City	Telephone	Contact
District 5	Joliet	815-726-6377 Ext. 206	Sergeant Chris Garibay
District 6	Pontiac	815-844-1500	Trooper David Diller
District 9	Pawnee	217-786-6278	Trooper Rich Mahan
District 12	Effingham	217-347-2761	M/Sergeant Kelley Hulsey
District 16	Pecatonica	815-239-1152 Ext. 242	M/Sergeant Lisa Ditzler
District 17	LaSalle	815-224-1171 Ext. 117	Sergeant Bob Cessna