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 13 to hunters for sighting in and test-firing their shotguns in a safe environment for the upcoming deer hunting season. Firing ranges in Joliet, Pawnee, Effingham, Macomb, and Pecatonica will be available to the public from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“The Open Range program provides hunters with an opportunity to sight-in their shotguns before the upcoming hunting season,” said ISP Acting Director Jonathon Monken. “The program also allows State Police and Department of Natural Resources firearm experts an opportunity to promote hunting safety by ensuring the safe and appropriate use of shotguns.”

“The IDNR’s top priority every hunting season is safety and 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 are once again 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 9	Pawnee	217-786-6278	Trooper Mike Kurlakowsky
District 12	Effingham	217-347-2711	M/Sergeant Kelley Hulsey
District 14	Macomb	309-833-4046 Ext. 242	Trooper Neal Merry
District 16	Pecatonica	815-239-1152 Ext. 242	Trooper Tim Roush