Firearm courses will again be offered at Southeastern Illinois College, taking advantage of the institution’s LaserShot firearm simulator technology as well as the Chuck Hearn Outdoor Education Complex shooting range.
The classes listed below will be held at the SIC main campus, in Room G221. Students must bring a copy of their valid FOID card and driver’s license to the first class.
Firearm Fundamentals will meet on Monday, Oct. 19 and Wednesday, Oct. 21 from 6 – 10 p.m. This class allows students to learn the fundamentals of firearm use with target practice, engagement drills, and interactive shooting scenarios taught by certified firearms instructors.
This class uses the simulator only. There is no ammunition or firearms needed. Cost for this course is $97 for tuition and fees. This class is open to those 18 and older.
“Students really enjoy the LaserShot system,” said firearms instructor Kerry Jones. “The realism built into the system is top-notch and a major drawing card. This is not your typical target practice.”
Images from the various programs are projected onto a six foot by eight foot screen, creating life-size targets for participants to aim at and interact with. Also, the laser-powered “guns” used don’t just look lifelike, but feel lifelike too – in particular, the Glock 17/22 models even have built-in recoil mechanisms.
Advanced Marksmanship will meet on Saturday, Oct. 24 from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. This class is designed for students with basic firearms skills that would like to further their training, including safety rules and advanced shooting with an instructor. This class is open to those 21 and older.
The Advanced Marksmanship class will get to utilize the SIC’s new shooting range. Students are responsible for their own firearm and ammunition, and are reminded not to bring a gun or ammunition into any SIC classroom. Instructors will provide information about when and where these items will be needed. Cost for the course is $72 for tuition and fees.
Utah Conceal Carry courses will be held Thursday, Sept. 24 and Thursday, Nov. 12 both from 6-10 p.m. The Utah Conceal Carry permit is acknowledged in 36 states. The cost for the course is $80 and does not include a $49 fee to the state of Utah. This class is open to those 21 and older.
Eight hour and 16 hour Illinois Conceal Carry courses are also available at SIC. These classes will utilize both class room instruction and the shooting range.
The eight hour courses will meet Saturday, Sept. 26 and Saturday, Nov. 14 both from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The cost for the courses are $102.50 and $55.50 for those 62 and over. Fingerprinting, application and other fees are not included in this price.
The first chance to take the 16 hour courses will be Monday, Sept. 21 and Tuesday, Sept. 22 from 6 – 10 p.m., and Saturday, Sept. 28 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A second opportunity to take these courses will be available Monday, Nov. 9 and Tuesday, Nov. 10 from 6 – 10 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 14 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The cost for the courses are $204 and $114 for those 62 and over. Fingerprinting, application and other fees are not included in this price.
Class sizes are limited and participants are encouraged to enroll promptly. For further information about the classes, call 252-5400, ext. 3213, or students can enroll by calling ext. 2443.
