Gurnee Pistol Academy

I attended the 16hr Concealed Carry course. The first 8hrs is learning about types of firearms, how they function, types of ammunition etc. If you have a background hunting or shooting, you probably know this. I figured the first session would drag, but Jon presented the material in a way which was interesting and kept you engaged. Laser equipped practice guns were used at the end of the day. The second 8hrs covers shooting live ammunition to obtain a passing score and legal issues when carrying a concealed firearm. Jon does a great job in the classroom and on the range he is able to quickly help you with stance, grip and aim. I would recommend Jon’s course, especially for new shooters. An additional thing I did not realize until I was home signing up for the license, was how helpful it was to be walked through the CCL application process, and what to do afterwards. And… Gurnee Pistol Academy operates out of 5 StarFirearms in Zion, IL. I was impressed with their range and large selection of handguns and equipment.

I took this class not knowing anything, a bit scared and intimidated because it’s something I don’t know and I’m not confident in. Jon is very knowledgeable, he’s cool and funny! I recommend him to anyone! I was scared because I thought the instructor was going to be a “know it all”, but Jon seriously is so humble with his skills & knowledge. he knows what he’s doing and definitely kept me engaged during class! You won’t regret it!

Thanks Jon Stahl again for a great experience with the training classes and the awesome experience of the gun range. I highly recommend your class, even to those that aren't interested, they'll be inspired from your experience and attitude. Initially I was worried and nervous, but with Jon Stahl's professional, humorous and informative training, I was very comfortable and open to learn. Thanks bunches Jon!

Seriously, I did not expect to have such a good time taking my Concleaded Carry Class here. Don't search Google for the most updated gun laws. Come here! Better to be safe than sorry.

Jonathan Stahl really knows what he's doing!

Took a training class recently and Jon did a great job. His approach is professional, comprehensive and informative. He kept the class interesting and fun. Sue the firearms instructor is a pleasure to work with. She teaches in a relaxed and accomplished manner. Their expertise is a winning combo. Would highly recommend training with them.

Jon covers everything you need to know and you won't be disappointed. He and Sue are well seasoned instructors.
I am so glad that I took these courses.I recommend them highly to any and everyone. Very helpful and friendly staff the people that work at five star range where the classes are held great place I will be going back again for more training with Sue but for beginners for people who have experience take the training that they offer it is well worth it Jon and Sue are awesome.

Jon and Sue were very friendly and polite. Both the CCL class and private lessons were very informative and fun. They will also help any first time buyers find the right first time purchase. 10/10 would recommend!

Jonathan is a very patience and well verse instructor in his job. He is a pleasure to work with. He will give you the confidence you need to carry a firearm responsibly.

I just finished the second and final class for my CCL. Jon did a fantastic job and explained everything in great detail. He always stopped and took his time, while answering our questions.

I had a chance to work with Jon, while trying out several pistols on the gun range during the qualification portion of the program. This really helped me decide which pistol might work best
for me after I get my CCL.

If you’re considering getting your CCL, I would highly recommend taking this class with Jon. I think you’d walk away afterwards thinking that it was time and money well spent. I know that I sure did!

This class was very informative, as to the laws of concealed carry in Illinois. The instructor Jon Stahl is very pleasant and knowledgeable in conceal carry class. I was very happy to have him as an instructor.

Called around different places offering CCL classes. Signed up with Gurnee Pistol Academy because Jon simply explained in depth what would be covered and gone over in his class. Every where else I called just gave me prices and dates with little to no explanation.

What separates these guys amongst others was their friendliness and professionalism!

Knowledgable, thorough, meticulous and accommodating. Made an 8 hour Phase 2 CCL course professionally engaging and entertaining. Highly recommend to gun owners of all ages and expertise levels.

I expected this class to be a waste of time honestly, and only took it because it’s required to get my CCL; however, this class was so informative, and Jon somehow also made it fun. I would highly recommend this class to anybody that even owns a gun. I learned so much about guns themselves and the law as it effects gun owners - extremely helpful real life information.

Great instructors and very personable. Sue and Jon are great to have for beginners to expert firearm handlers.

I had recently took John's reloading pistol cartridge classes and immediately asked him if he had a advanced class because I wanted more! John was well informed and made the class fun.

Before the class I was moderately interested in reloading, after the class I am obsessed. Looking forward to applying what I learned!

Jon is a great and thorough instructor. I highly recommend if you are looking for a class.

My instructor was Sue. She was very professional, informative, and positive. She uses a lot of positive reinforcement so you feel very comfortable with the training being administered. Very knowledgeable, not afraid of questions, and will get you an answer for any question you have. I would highly recommend anybody to visit Sue, when learning and for a refresher class. Highly recommended!

Jerry and Sue are great instructors. Very knowledgeable and able to instruct a wide ranging audience of students from all across lake county. Both are patient, funny, and trustworthy. I highly recommend Gurnee Pistol Academy.

I have recently completed training for Conceal and Carry at Gurnee Pistol Academy. I must say, the experience was very pleasant. Jerry Martin and Sue Pate are the instructors for the academy and they are very knowledgeable, helpful and professional individuals. They take the time to make sure that you are comfortable and I feel that is very important when dealing with any firearm. I highly encourage people that are interested in learning about conceal and carry to check Gurnee Pistol Academy out. I absolutely enjoyed it!! GREAT, GREAT JOB GUYS!!!

Excellent instruction, great material, and instructors who clearly care about the success of ALL of their students. Being inexperienced with handguns, I wasn't sure what to expect. But what I received was fantastic - professional instructors, who are willing to take time to answer questions from all students - and quality one-on-one coaching at the range. I recommend anybody in northeastern Illinois or southeastern Wisconsin who wants to learn about handguns, safety, and concealed carry, sign up for the phase-1 and phase-2 training program from GPA!