My wife and I took class with Erin she did an awesome job and made us feel very comfortable and…read moresafe!

I recently completed my CCL course at Lightning Defense Academy, and I can say without hesitation…read morethat this is the best firearms training academy in Northern Illinois. From start to finish, the experience was exceptional, educational, and deeply meaningful to me. My instructor, Erin, is nothing short of outstanding. Her intelligence, professionalism, patience, and strong character set the tone for the entire class. She created a supportive, welcoming classroom environment where every question was encouraged and answered with clear, precise instruction. Erin truly takes the time to ensure her students understand not only how to safely handle a firearm, but also the laws, responsibilities, and mindset required of a concealed carry license holder. Her trust in me as a student, the time she invested, and her belief in my ability to succeed meant more to me than words can fully express. She is an incredible female instructor who absolutely rocks this class and blew it out of the park on every level. The class itself was fun, informative, and well-paced, with a great group size that allowed for individual attention. The agility test and range qualification were run smoothly and professionally, and the written test at the end of the course was extremely helpful in reinforcing everything we learned. I walked away feeling confident, informed, and prepared. The owner, John, is an amazing instructor and an even better human being. Despite running a busy family business and teaching instructor-level classes, he took time to step into our classroom and share invaluable, real-world knowledge that every CCL holder should hear. His guidance on the range is something you truly need to experience firsthand. He is patient, highly knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in the success and safety of every student. Lightning Defense Academy is also home to an incredible pro shop located in the same building. It is a family-run business, with John and his son working behind the counter and going above and beyond to help. They patiently answered my questions, guided me toward the proper holster for my needs, and made the purchasing process comfortable and educational. The selection of firearms and accessories is outstanding, with one of the largest selections of new and used firearms I've seen, along with hands-down the best-priced ammunition in McHenry County. What truly sets Lightning Defense Academy apart is their commitment to the community. They offer free classes for women taught by Erin, free CPR and first aid classes, and many additional opportunities to continue learning and growing as a responsible firearm owner. Passing this class meant the world to me. Being trusted, taught, and guided by such a knowledgeable and caring team opened my eyes to the seriousness, responsibility, and legal understanding required of a CCL holder. Lightning Defense Academy doesn't just teach you how to pass a class--they teach you how to carry with confidence, responsibility, and respect for the law. Located off Route 14 in Crystal Lake, Lightning Defense Academy is a true platinum gem. If you are considering obtaining your CCL or furthering your firearms education, do not miss the opportunity to train with John, Erin, and their outstanding team. I recommend Lightning Defense Academy without hesitation as the absolute best in Northern Illinois.

The Disneyland of GUNS GUNS GUNS! You can rent fully automatic weapons and more here! So fun to…read moresmash, thrash, and DESTROY. I like it ALOT. PTR91 .308 I fired full mags and LOVED IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Fun times to be had here, go now. They're an after covid store though the original one was open in another city way before.

I've been going to north shore since. they took over bought a couple of guns I use the shooting…read morerange there the staff is very helpfull they helped me with a couple of my guns I was having trouble with the range is always clean love this place come in check it out

Mike is extremely professional and knowledgable. He knows it all - and CCW training will be…read morescheduled very soon. I had my 2.5 hour Private Lesson [classroom and range time] and couldn't have been more pleased with the session. My stance, grip and trigger control habits have been re-established and are now where they should be. The next skill set I plan on working with Mike are Dry Fire techniques and some more range time. By the way, his blog and website are filled with tons of great information, so check those out.

From the owner: The region's premier comprehensive Illinois Concealed Carry Training with an emphasis on modern…read moredefensive pistol craft, dry fire training techniques for mastering essentials at home and focus on clear and concise education. Other classes include Defensive Handgun Technique, Tactical Pistol, Shooting from the Holster, private lessons and Victim Avoidance Seminars. CCW training includes our SIRT laser pistol training lab in our modern Cary classroom. All shooting is done in a private bay at a members only range in McHenry. This is the best value and finest training for IL CCW licensing.

Awesome, this is the type of people we need in the gun comunity. Most gun stores act like there…read moreworking against you, BNT Arms works with you.

Got me in right away and fixed my issue within 10 minutes. Very friendly and reasonably priced…read more Glad to find a good gunsmith locally! Thanks

It's sucks it's to humid in side smells like sweat and but. There is no room to walk just blow this…read moreplace to ashes. It was better before they remodeled. And food it like 2* the cost

I just don't think this is a good club maybe don't come here if your starting off it's for money…read moredon't get dragged into it.