NRA Basics of Shotgun Shooting

Learn to Safely and Confidently Use a Shotgun

Whether you're interested in hunting, sporting clays, trap shooting, home defense, or simply learning a new skill, this course provides a solid foundation in safe shotgun handling and operation.

The National Rifle Association Basics of Shotgun Shooting course is designed for new and developing shooters who want hands-on instruction in a safe, supportive environment.

No previous experience is required.

What will you learn?

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Safe Gun Handling

Learn and practice the fundamental rules of safe firearm handling to instill a culture of safety from the very beginning.

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Parts and Operation of Common Shotguns

Gain a deep understanding of the common shotgun types, and how they function.

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Ammunition

Learn how to identify and select the correct ammunition based on your shooting activity. Learn and practice safe loading and unloading procedures on various shotgun types.

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Shotgun Shooting Fundamentals

Master the fundamental of shotgun shooting, including proper stance, mount, movement and lead.

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Range Rules

Familiarize yourself with essential range rules and etiquette to ensure a safe and respectful shooting environment.

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Cleaning and Maintainance

Learn the proper firearm maintenance and how to properly clean your shotgun.

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Skill Development

Engage in continuous opportunities for skill development, reinforcing what you've learned in the classroom on the live-fire range.

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Your First Steps to Safely and Effectively Shooting a Shotgun

If you're looking for a beginner shotgun class near McHenry, IL, the NRA Basics of Shotgun Shooting course at Guns-N-Such is the perfect place to start. Designed for new and developing shooters, this course teaches the fundamentals of safe shotgun handling, operation, and marksmanship in a supportive, hands-on learning environment. Whether you're interested in hunting, sporting clays, home defense, or simply learning a new skill, you'll gain the knowledge and confidence needed to safely use a shotgun.

This NRA shotgun training course combines classroom instruction with live-fire range training. Students learn shotgun parts and operation, ammunition selection, safe loading and unloading procedures, shooting fundamentals, cleaning and maintenance, and safe storage practices. On the range, you'll apply these skills under the guidance of certified instructors while building confidence and improving accuracy.

Whether you're a first-time shotgun owner or simply looking to improve your skills, this shotgun safety class provides a strong foundation for safe and responsible firearm ownership. If you've been searching for shotgun training near McHenry, IL, shotgun lessons for beginners, or a place to learn to shoot a shotgun, Guns-N-Such offers professional instruction in a welcoming environment focused on developing confident, competent, and responsible shooters.

Choose Your Dates and Sign Up for $150

June Weekend

$150
  • Saturday, June 27th 11am-4pm
  • AND
  • Sunday, June 28th 11am-4pm

Need a different date? Send us a message, and tell us what you are looking for, get in touch

Who is this class for?

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First-Time Shotgun Owners

Learn the fundamentals before developing bad habits.

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Clay Target Shooters

Get started with trap, skeet, and sporting clays.

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Anyone Looking to Improve Their Skills

Refresh your knowledge and strengthen your foundation.

What's Included

We've designed this course to make getting started as easy as possible. Students do not need to own a shotgun or bring ammunition to participate.

Your registration includes:

  • NRA Basics of Shotgun Shooting classroom instruction
  • Live-fire range training with a certified instructor
  • Use of a loaner shotgun provided by Guns-N-Such
  • Ammunition for the live-fire exercises
  • Clay targets for the shooting portion of the course
  • Range fees and shooting time at our training location
  • NRA student materials and course completion certificate

The loaner shotgun used during training has been intentionally selected for new shooters. Its reduced recoil and user-friendly design help students focus on learning proper shotgun fundamentals and building confidence without the discomfort often associated with heavier-recoiling shotguns.

Just bring eye and ear protection, dress appropriately for the weather, and come ready to learn. We'll provide the equipment, ammunition, targets, and instruction needed to help you get started safely and confidently.

What to Bring

No prior firearm experience is necessary for this course. No FOID card is required for this Course. If you would like help applying for your FOID card, talk to the instructor. 

What to Bring:

  • 🎧 Ear protection
  • 👓 Eye protection

If you eyes and ears let us know and we will have some available for purchase. We can also help you select your first shotgun, or the next shotgun that you want to add to your collection.