FREE SHOTGUN RANGE!

[uncle matt]

For anyone (everyone?) in Illinois wanting an opportunity to throw some slugs just before opener can contact their State Police District. Most, but not all of the Districts, usually have have a deer hunter' s open shotgun sight-in day scheduled.

You must call and reserve a slot. Upon arrival you sign-in, get a copy of the rules, sign a release waiver. Then you are out to the range.

I go to District 5 (by Stateville Prison). There, the formal range is about maximum 40 yards. That is where the existing target stands are mounted and they are not easily moveable. There are targets provided, however thay are not what I preffer so I like to bring my targets all ready, secured to 1" X 2" pieces (and a hammer). They have always let me set them down at the base of the berm for a more reasonable sight-in distance. The troopers who run it here in District 5 are always great.

Usually a Conservation Police Officer is also there. Last year the Officer was a WOMAN! This woman was stunning! I' ll leave it at that!

Here is a listing of the District phone numbers participating, I think it' s lasy year' s.

DISTRICT LOCATION PHONE
2 Elgin 847-931-2411
5 Joliet 815-726-6377 x223
7 East Moline 309-752-4915
8 Metamora 309-676-2116 x238
9 Pawnee 217-625-2131
10 Pesotum 217-265-0050
11 Collinsville 618-346-3671
13 DuQuoin 618-542-8171
14 Macomb 309-833-4046 x0
16 Pecetonica 815-963-7688


Here' s to straight shootin' and fine venison dinin' .

Uncle Matt (in IL)

[george_s]

i shot at dist 5 last year. good people and very professional. i went to buffalo range this year....closer to home and shot my .270 as well

[newillinoishunter]

Thanks Uncle Matt! I remember seeing that on the DNR site last year and was hoping it would be available again this year. I' ll be checking out Elgin.