From Uncertain
to Unshakeable.
A clear, three-step path designed for people who are brand new — or starting fresh. You go at your own pace. Everything is provided. Your only job is to show up.
You're Ready to Become
Someone Who Knows What They're Doing.
You Want to Protect Your Family
You've purchased or are considering a firearm for home protection. You believe in personal responsibility and want practical, no-nonsense training — not military tactics.
You Want to Feel Safer
You've thought about personal safety and want to take control of it. Maybe you've never touched a gun, or maybe it's been years. You want a supportive environment where no question feels stupid.
You're Ready to Learn Something New
This is something you've always been curious about. You want patient, step-by-step instruction in a relaxed setting — and a community of people who share your interest.
Three Steps.
One Clear Path Forward.
Each step builds on the last. Take them one at a time or save money by booking the bundle. There's no pressure to move faster than you're ready.
Introduction to Shooting
Your first experience with a firearm, done right. We start in the classroom — safety rules, how firearms work, and what to expect. Then we head to the range together. You'll fire your first rounds with your instructor right beside you.
- 2.5–3 hours total
- Classroom safety & fundamentals
- Guided live-fire range session
- Loaner firearm included
- Ammo included
- Eye & ear protection included
- Max 6 students per class
Range Practice with .22lr
A quick safety review and dry-fire warm-up, then it's range time. You'll practice with a low-recoil .22lr — perfect for building muscle memory, improving accuracy, and getting comfortable with the fundamentals without distraction.
- 2–2.5 hours total
- Safety review & dry-fire
- Extended .22lr range session
- Loaner firearm included
- Ammo included
- Instructor feedback throughout
- Max 6 students per class
Defensive Caliber Practice
Same format as Step 2 — but now you're shooting 9mm, .38 Special, or .380. Real defensive calibers. Real confidence. This is where it all comes together, and where you realize you're ready for whatever comes next.
- 2–2.5 hours total
- Safety review & dry-fire
- 9mm / .38 Special / .380 range time
- Loaner firearm included
- Ammo included
- Instructor feedback every drill
- Max 6 students per class
New Shooter Bundle
All Three Steps.
Book Steps 1, 2, and 3 together and save $28. Same instructors. Same supportive environment. The fastest, most structured path from brand new to confidently shooting defensive calibers.
- ✓First Shots intro class
- ✓.22lr Range Practice
- ✓Defensive Caliber Practice
- ✓All gear & ammo included in every step
- ✓Schedule each step at your own pace
Where Do You Go
From Here?
Completing the three-step track puts you exactly where you need to be to take on real training. Most students continue into one of these:
NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting
The gold standard in firearms education. Deeper fundamentals, more range time, and an NRA certificate at the end.
Illinois CCL Course
Ready to carry? Our state-approved IL CCL courses get you legally licensed and genuinely prepared.
Marksmanship Workshop
Want tighter groups? The Marksmanship Workshop targets the specific habits holding your accuracy back.
Things People
Wonder Before They Book.
They Were Nervous Too.
"I was absolutely terrified walking in. Within an hour I was shooting confidently and asking when I could come back. Patient, calm, and I felt completely safe the whole time."
"As a single mom thinking about home protection, I didn't know where to start. Small class, no judgment, and I left with real skills and real confidence. I've already booked Step 2."
"I'm 67 and always wanted to learn to shoot properly. Figured it was too late. It wasn't. The instructor treated me with complete respect and I had a genuinely great time."
Quick Answers.
None at all. First Shots is designed from the ground up for people who are starting at zero. No assumptions, no jargon, no rushing.
No. Every step includes a loaner firearm, ammo, eye protection, and ear protection. If you own a firearm and want to use it, let us know when you book.
Step 1 runs 2.5–3 hours. Steps 2 and 3 each run 2–2.5 hours. Plan a little extra — we don't rush, and that's by design.
We recommend going in order — each step builds directly on the one before it. If you have prior experience and want to skip ahead, call or text us and we'll figure out the right starting point.
Cancel at least 48 hours before your class for a full refund or free reschedule. Within 48 hours you'll receive a credit toward a future session. Call or text (815) 669-9220 to cancel.
All classes are at Guns-N-Such Firearms Training Center, 2908 W Elm St, McHenry, IL 60051. Parking on site. Full directions in your confirmation after booking.
Still Have Questions?
Call or text us — we respond fast.
Your First Step
Costs $59.
Everything is included. No experience needed. Show up and we'll handle the rest.
Book First Shots Now →