FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Firearms Training Questions Answered

by Certified Instructors in Illinois

Choosing the right firearms training can feel overwhelming—especially for beginners. At Lamassu Gears Firearms Training Academy, we believe education, safety, and confidence should come before anything else.

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Illinois CCL & FOID Requirements

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What are the legal requirements to get a Concealed Carry License (CCL) in Illinois?

To qualify for an Illinois CCL, the Illinois State Police requires that you are:

At least 21 years old.

A valid owner of a Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card.

Free of any felony or violent misdemeanor convictions within the past 5 years.

Free of two or more DUI convictions within the past 5 years.

Free of any pending arrest warrants.

A graduate of a state-approved 16-hour firearms training course.

Ready to submit fingerprints, a recent photograph, and pass an ISP background check.

 

What does the mandatory 16-hour Illinois CCL class cover?

Our popular 16-hour CCL class covers essential state laws, safe weapon storage, proper handling, situational awareness, and safe transportation. It also includes hands-on, live-fire qualification drills conducted in a highly controlled, safety-first environment at a local shooting range.

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Beginner & General Training Information

 

I’ve never touched a firearm before. Is this training right for me?

Absolutely. Many students at Lamassu Gears start with zero prior experience. Our beginner firearms training classes are specifically designed to be calm, supportive, and completely judgment-free.

 

Is firearms safety training only for people who plan to carry a hidden weapon?

No. Many individuals across the Chicagoland area attend our courses purely for safety education, home awareness, and personal confidence. Training is about knowledge and safety—not just carrying.

 

Do women take your firearms training classes?

Yes. Women make up a massive, fast-growing portion of our students. Personal safety and situational awareness are about confidence and proper technique, not physical size or strength.

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Who leads the courses at Lamassu Gears?

All training is led by certified firearms instructor Johni Mashu.

Johni specializes in civilian firearms safety, real-world decision-making, and building confidence in students of all skill levels.

 

What makes Lamassu Gears different from other regional academies?

Unlike tactical or aggressive programs, Lamassu Gears focuses entirely on a responsible civilian mindset, education over tactics, patient instruction, and a welcoming environment for beginners.

 

Where can I find professional firearms training near Skokie, IL?

Our main facility is located at 4728 Oakton St, Skokie, IL 60076. We are easily accessible and provide premier firearms training near Skokie, Niles, and Lincolnwood.

 

Do you serve surrounding Chicagoland communities?

Yes. Lamassu Gears proudly serves students across Skokie, Niles, Lincolnwood, Evanston, Morton Grove, Wilmette, and Glenview. If you are looking for local, trusted training, our academy is just a short drive away.

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Specialized Courses & Scheduling

 

What is a 3-hour concealed carry renewal course?

An Illinois CCL permit must be renewed every 5 years. Our 3-hour renewal course is a streamlined refresher class that updates you on changing state laws, reviews defensive safety principles.

 

Do you offer basic rifle and shotgun courses?

Yes. Our basic rifle and basic shotgun courses introduce beginners to long-gun safety, stance, control, and proper operation fundamentals in an educational setting.

 

Are classes offered on weekends?

Yes. We feature weekend CCL classes and flexible schedule blocks specifically to accommodate working professionals, busy families, and varying shift schedules.

 

Is private one-on-one instruction available?

Yes. We offer private firearms training and small-group sessions by appointment. These are tailored precisely to your specific experience level and personal comfort goals.

 

How do I book a firearms training class?

You can look over our active schedule and book your 16-hour CCL class or renewal course directly through our website booking portal & our direct # (773) 691-3333.

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What happens if my Illinois CCL expires? Is there a grace period?

The Illinois State Police provides a 90-day layaway or grace period after your concealed carry license expires. If you submit your renewal application within this window, your license remains valid while being processed. However, if your CCL has been expired for more than 90 days, you cannot take the short refresher; you are legally required to retake the full 16-hour CCL training course to reapply.

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Can military veterans skip parts of the 16-hour Illinois CCL class?

Yes. Under ISP rules, active-duty military personnel and honorably discharged veterans qualify for 8 hours of training credit. This means you only need to complete the second 8-hour block of our

16-hour CCL class to qualify for your certification.

At Lamassu Gears, we honor our veterans by offering special accommodation rates for those who served).

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What is the exact shooting qualification for the Illinois Concealed Carry License?

To pass the mandatory live-fire qualification, the state requires students to fire a total of 30 rounds at a B-27 silhouette target under instructor supervision. You must shoot:

10 rounds from a distance of 3 yards.

10 rounds from a distance of 5 yards.

10 rounds from a distance of 7 yards.

You must hit the target area with at least 21 out of 30 shots (70%) to pass the certification.

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Do I need to own a gun before registering for firearms safety training?

No, you do not need to own a firearm to get started. In fact, taking a beginner-friendly class at an academy like Lamassu Gears before buying a weapon prevents you from spending money on the wrong gear. We provide guidance on choosing the right model, fit, and accessories for your specific personal safety comfort goals.