GAT GUNS

Organizers

Excel Training Group
Excel Training Group

Instructor

  • Bill Zeller
    Bill Zeller
    NRA Certified Instructor

    Bill is a highly decorated firearms professional with an unwavering commitment to safety and skill development.

    NRA Certified Pistol Instructor: Bill possesses the knowledge and skills to guide you through proper firearm handling and safe shooting practices.

    Illinois Approved Concealed Carry Instructor: Get the training and certification you need to carry concealed with confidence. Bill is your one-stop shop for Illinois CCW permit requirements.

    National Range Officer Institute Certified Chief Range Safety Officer: Bill is a leader in range safety, ensuring a secure and controlled environment for all his students.

    Proven Leadership: Bill’s experience as USPSA Program Director at both North Porter County CC (Chesterton, IN) and Oak Park Sportsmens Club (Plainfield, IL) showcases his dedication to the shooting sports community.

    Match Director Expertise: Bill’s experience as IDPA Match Director at Excel IDPA and NPCCC further demonstrates his in-depth knowledge of competitive shooting and practical application of firearms skills.

Class Location
GAT Guns
970 Dundee Ave, East Dundee, IL

Class Categories

Date
Mar 28, 2026
Check back later for additional dates
Time
Multiple Dates Available
9:00 am - 1:00 pm

Cost

$150.00

Basic Practical Shotgun

Curious about using a shotgun for home defense, but not sure where to start?

This class is built for newer and everyday shotgun owners who want safe, practical experience in a welcoming environment.

Many people consider the shotgun one of the most effective home-defense tools, but most owners never get the chance to practice with guidance in a structured live-fire setting. This course gives you the opportunity to build confidence and learn practical skills at your own pace.

No shotgun? No problem — loaner shotguns are available if needed.

We’ll begin in the classroom covering:

  • Safe gun handling
  • Basic operation
  • Loading and unloading
  • Shooting fundamentals
  • Home-defense considerations

Then we’ll move to the range for hands-on live-fire exercises, including:

  • Target engagement
  • Loading and reloading drills
  • Movement and multiple-target practice

Reactive steel targets will be used to make training fun, safe, and engaging. Whether you’re brand new to shotguns or looking to become more comfortable with your home-defense setup, this class is designed to help you leave more confident and capable.

  • Classroom Instruction
  • Range Time
  • Eye and Ear Protection if needed

  • A shotgun in any gauge
  • Two boxes (50 rounds) of birdshot-type ammunition: Shot size of #7 1/2 or smaller
  • Eye and Ear Protection
  • The shotgun must be unloaded and in a case upon arrival. We will check you in as your arrive.

  • There are no pre-requisites for this class.

 

Class Cancellation / Reschedule Policy

  • If you need to Cancel or Reschedule a class, you must call the store: 847-428-4867
  • Cancellation / Reschedule of a class from one week to the day of the class is $50.00

 

 

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