Academy at 355

New Shooters

We’re here to help

Call (630) 739-9000

New to firearms or shooting? Whether you’re a first-time firearm owner, new to shooting, or getting back into the groove, the range can feel intimidating. There’s no better place to start — or refresh your skills — than the Academy at 355.

Training runs from private, one-on-one lessons to group classes. The goal is confidence, skill, and safe, responsible firearm ownership. Not sure where to begin? Just ask. Staff and Range Safety Officers can help you pick a class, explain range etiquette, or find a firearm that feels comfortable.

One on one

Take a Private Lesson

These one-hour lessons can be tailored to the needs of the student. For basic to advanced skill levels with handguns, rifles, or shotguns. Only one discipline can be addressed per lesson. One additional student can be added at the time of the lesson for $50. This is great if you are brand new to shooting, or if it has been a while since you have been on the range.

Learn more and register
Group

First Shots Class

New to firearms? Thinking about purchasing your first handgun? The NSSF First Shots® Program is a safe, welcoming, pressure-free introduction for first-time and new shooters. Students get the knowledge, confidence, and hands-on experience to take their first shots safely.

Learn more and register
Less-lethal

Byrna and Pepper Spray

This course introduces the safe and effective use of less-lethal projectile launchers such as Byrna launcher systems and SABRE less-lethal launchers. An alternative for people who may not want to carry a firearm but still want a way to protect themselves.

Learn more and register
Ages 10–16

Youth Class

This approximately 2.5-hour class is for students ages 10–16 and covers the fundamentals of firearm safety and handling. A parent or guardian must stay for the entire class. Students then live-fire a .22 caliber pistol under instruction.

Learn more and register
9003 Murphy Rd, Bolingbrook, IL 60440 (630) 739-9000

New to firearms or shooting? We’re here to help!

Whether you’re a first-time firearm owner, new to shooting, or simply looking to get back into the groove, stepping onto the range can feel intimidating. That’s why there’s no better place to start—or refresh your skills—than the Academy at 355!

We offer a variety of training options to fit your needs, from private, one-on-one lessons to group classes. Our goal is to help you build confidence, develop your skills, and become a safe and responsible firearm owner.

Not sure where to begin? Just ask! Our friendly staff, Range Safety Officers, and team members are here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you need help choosing the right class, have questions about range etiquette, want to learn more about firearm safety, or need guidance finding a firearm that feels comfortable for you, we’re happy to help.

At the Academy at 355, we believe that learning starts with asking questions, and we’re here to make your experience welcoming, comfortable, and focused on safety.

Take the first step with confidence. We look forward to helping you get started!


These one-hour lessons can be tailored to the needs of the student. For basic to advanced skill levels with handguns, rifles, or shotguns (only one discipline can be addressed per lesson). One additional student can be added at the time of the lesson for $50. This is great if you are brand new to shooting, or if it has been a while since you have been on the Range.


New to firearms? Thinking about purchasing your first handgun? Curious about shooting but not sure where to begin? The NSSF First Shots® Program is designed specifically for first-time and new shooters who want a safe, welcoming, and pressure-free introduction to firearms and the shooting sports. This beginner-friendly course provides students with the knowledge, confidence, and hands-on experience needed to take their first shots safely and successfully.



TAKE A PRIVATE LESSON

TAKE OUR FIRST SHOTS CLASS | Shoot in a group

LESS-THAN-LETHAL OPTIONS | Byrna Launchers and Pepper Spray

This course introduces students to the safe and effective use of less-lethal projectile launchers such as the Byrna launcher systems and SABRE less-lethal launchers. These devices provide an alternative personal defense option for individuals who may not want to carry a firearm but still want the ability to protect themselves.

SIGN UP FOR OUR YOUTH CLASS

This approximately 2.5-hour class is designed for students ages 10–16 and introduces the fundamentals of firearm safety and handling. A parent or guardian must remain present for the entire duration of the class. At the conclusion, students will have the opportunity to live-fire a .22 caliber pistol under instruction.