Taught by Marcus Melnick
“Marcus was wonderful. He made the class entertaining and informative. I recommend him to anyone looking for a class that can keep you safe compliant in your daily life.”
RYGUY
Submitted Jul 2026
Safety First. Creating a Safer Future.
Teaching the proper techniques and care for handling firearms.
What We Do
Certification, fundamentals, on-demand learning, and safety programs for your organization.
Illinois Concealed Carry
16 hour initial certification and the 4 hour renewal, classroom plus live fire qualification.
See Certification & ReneNew Shooter Classes
First Shots for your very first range day, then Find Your Fit to try 9mm pistols before you buy.
See New Shooter DatesE-Learning
On-demand video courses you can take at your own pace, anywhere, any time.
Browse CoursesSafety Programs
Active shooter response, de-escalation and street smarts for schools, teams and congregations.
See ProgramsUpcoming Classes
Nov
19
Thu
Basic Pistol 1: First Shots
Handgun Basics
RMG Guns and Ammunition
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
$100
Online Courses
Free
7 lessons
Intro To Handguns
Interested in gaining some knowledge BEFORE you take a Concealed Carry Class? Then this is the class for you. Video-On-Demand delivery means you can watch it on any internet connected device when it is most convenient for you. Come to your class prepared to learn, with the basic knowledge any gun owner should have.
Free
1 lesson
Why Take A Gun Safety Class
Are you a responsible gun owner...or just a gun owner? Every day at the range we witness people who don't know even the most basic fundamentals firearm ownership, the law or proper transport of a firearm. There's no such thing as a gun accident. If you own a firearm, you should watch this quick video.
Free
1 lesson
What You Need To Know As A Firearm Owner
If you own a firearm, you owe it to yourself and your loved ones to know more than just how to use it. From proper firearm safety to understanding the use of lethal force and what constitutes self defense , ignorance of the law is no defense. Taking a Concealed Carry Course, even if you never intend to carry a firearm on your person, is a great idea for ANY firearm owner and their family. Want to know why? Watch this quick video...
About Us
Firearm Mentor is a concealed carry and safety training company serving Lincolnshire, Buffalo Grove, Arlington Heights, Schaumburg and the greater Chicagoland area. Owner Marcus Melnick has taught more than 11,500 students, blending a public safety career that began in 1988 with a relaxed, student-centered classroom.
Credentials & Certifications
Instructor Certifications - United States Concealed Carry Association (USCCA) Instructor - NRA Certified Pistol Instructor - NRA Certified Range Safety Officer - Illinois Concealed Carry Instructor - Glock Armorer - Active Shooter Response Instructor - National Incident Management System (NIMS) - Pepper Spray (Oleoresin Capsicum) Instructor - Control and Restraint / Handcuffing Instructor - Violent Patient Management Instructor - OSHA Safety - Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) Restraint Additional Background - 11,500+ students trained - Public safety career since 1988: private security management, law enforcement, emergency management and firefighting - Firearms experience since 1980 - Multiple criminal justice degrees - Northwestern University Police Staff and Command graduate - Two-time FBI Scholar (not an FBI agent; recognized twice by the Federal Bureau of Investigation for contributions to law enforcement) - Graduate-level adjunct college professor - Court and media recognized expert witness - TEDx speaker and international safety keynote speaker - Published author of several books and national safety publications
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a FOID Card to take a concealed carry class?
No. A FOID card is not required to attend the class, but you will need a valid FOID card before applying for your Illinois Concealed Carry License.
What are the requirements to obtain an Illinois Concealed Carry License?
Applicants must be at least 21 years old, hold a valid FOID card, meet state eligibility requirements, and successfully complete the required 16 hour firearms training course.
You also must not be prohibited under federal law from possessing a firearm, must not have a disqualifying criminal history, and must not have been in court ordered alcohol or drug treatment within the last five years.
Do I need my own firearm for class?
No. Firearm Mentor can provide firearms and ammunition for training. You are welcome to bring and qualify with your own firearm if you prefer.
Is there an online concealed carry class?
No. Illinois requires concealed carry training to be completed in person, including both classroom instruction and live fire qualification.
What does the Illinois Concealed Carry Class cover?
The course covers firearm safety, handgun fundamentals, Illinois firearm law, the defensive mindset, self defense concepts and the required live fire qualification. It meets Illinois State Police requirements for obtaining a Concealed Carry License.
The curriculum runs in three parts: an NRA Basic Pistol style foundation, statutory and case law (Illinois Concealed Carry Act, FOID Act, Gun Control Act of 1968) with scenario based discussion, and range qualification.
Student Reviews
What students say about our classes.
Taught by Marcus Melnick
“Incredible experience. The knowledge shared during my recent course was second to none. Marcus is wonderful to work with and creates a comfortable atomsphere for learning. Taking the basics that are required for certifcation to another level by providing real life...”
Daniel
Submitted Apr 2026
Taught by Marcus Melnick
“Marcus was friendly, personable, knowledgeable, and helpful. A real expert in firearm instruction, safety, and technique. He knows his stuff, and can be trusted to make you a more responsible firearm owner.”
Brian Opensky
Submitted May 2026
Ready to Get Started?
Join us for world-class training. Register for an upcoming class or browse our online courses.