Organizers
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Excel Training Group
Instructors
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TD RoeNRA Certified InstructorTD Roe is a highly skilled firearms instructor with a passion for safety and competition shooting. An NRA Certified Pistol Instructor, TD brings years of experience to the range, making her adept at teaching both beginners and seasoned shooters. Her expertise extends beyond marksmanship, with a strong focus on safe firearm handling and knowledge. When not instructing, TD is likely pushing her limits in the world of competitive shooting, further solidifying her mastery of the sport.
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Bill ZellerNRA Certified InstructorBill 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.
The Gun Buffet
From curiosity to confidence — find your favorite firearm.
If you’ve completed our Introduction to Handguns class or have prior handgun experience and are wondering, “What’s next?” or “Which gun should I get?” — the answer is: The Gun Buffet!
This unique, hands-on experience is designed to help you build confidence and make informed choices when it comes to selecting your handgun. Think of it as “try before you buy” — in a supportive, structured training environment.
Here’s what’s on the menu:
- Refresher Session – We start with a quick review of handgun fundamentals and a warm-up on the range with our training .22s.
- Classroom Buffet Preview – Handle 25+ 9mm and .38 caliber handguns “dry” in the classroom to feel the differences in design and action types.
- Live Fire Session – Take your favorites to the range and try them out for real!
- Shopping Tips – Learn how to confidently navigate the gun counter with expert guidance from TD.
- Basic Maintenance & Cleaning – Wrap up with a short session on keeping your future handgun clean and ready.
You’re welcome to bring your own handgun for comparison, but please note the class time will be focused on sampling the buffet guns.
If you’re ready to drill down with your personal firearm and take your skills up a notch, check out our Skills & Drills class — it’s the perfect follow-up.
1 -35 = Beginner | 36-70 = Intermediate | 71-100 = Advanced
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
