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Red Dot Arms Training Academy
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1600 N Milwaukee Ave, Suite 307,

Lake Villa, IL, 60046

270 reviews
Business claimed Last updated: Over a year ago
About Red Dot Arms Training Academy

Established in 2012, Red Dot Arms Training Academy stands as the premier firearms training facility in Lake Villa, Illinois. Offering a vast array of courses tailored to individuals of all skill level Go to full description...

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4.9
270 reviews
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270 Reviews
By Bryan Hickey on Mar 02, 2026
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This concealed carry class was Extremely informative and fun at the same time. Mike and Steve are amazing instructors. I will certainly be back to take more courses and definitely recommend anyone looking to get their license to Red Dot Arms.
By Darnell Clay on Feb 17, 2026
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First and foremost, this was a phenomenal training experience that I would recommend to anyone looking to obtain their CCL permit.

Day 1: Steve was my instructor and he did an excellent job at covering the material. We covered 7 hours of material and I don’t think he looked at the screen all but a couple of times. This just goes to show how much knowledge he has on the subject. Once w got to the range, Steve and Larry continued to do an excellent job ensuring top tier instruction.

Day 2: Mike and Nicole were the instructors for day 2. I’m a college professor so I’m always observing other instructors whenever I get a chance to. Mike is absolutely an amazing instructor! He kept us engaged the entire time while in the class, and he brings a lot of energy, which actually made the classroom part of the training enjoyable. On the range, him and Nicole were also phenomenal in their approach. They were extremely patient and provided me with a bunch of details to improve my craft.

Simply put, I would 10/10 recommend this place for anyone looking to get their CCL permit.

Thank you Red Dot for an enjoyable experience!
By mickeywrench on Feb 10, 2026
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Great training class (CCL renewal)!
I’ve taken a few classes here before at RDA. The staff, including Michael explain the materials covered in a manner that makes it easy to understand, even for beginners. They are very knowledgeable . Beginners may be nervous/shy/etc (which is expected from anybody) but the staff makes you feel comfortable & confident.
SAFETY IS ALWAYS PRIORITY ONE! At RDA!! Keep ‘er pointing down rage ALWAYS!!!
Thanks Michael & Nicole
By Brian E. Templeman on Feb 02, 2026
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It was an excellent experience with Mike and his crew. Steve Larry and Nicole made it a great learning experience. I would recommend this course to anyone who is hesitant to get their conceal and carry. The company red dot is very serious about safety in their conceal and carry classes as they should be. They made a great learning experience and Improved my confidence greatly, Kudos to the crew, Keep up the good work. Brian from Illinois
By TexMexJES on Dec 07, 2025
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Great class, instructors were very knowledgeable & helpful. Range was a bit chilly but, what can you expect if you take a December class, with outdoor range. They did give us option to take the shooting part at an indoor range at a later date. Overall I’d recommend class to anyone interested in taking CCL classes.
By Thienly Truong on Mar 30, 2025
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I had mistakenly made a review for the store instead of the training center, but that's okay. After having taken NRA BIT, NRA basic pistol instructor, and NRA CCW instructor here, I can more than confidently say that this is some top notch training with top notch instructors. Mike's reputation precedes him each time I meet him; the amount of certificates he has from various instructors and organizations is thick enough to rival a Harry Potter book and it definitely shows. I look forward to taking more potential classes with him in the future.
By Thienly Truong on Mar 27, 2025
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I had mistakenly made a review for the store instead of the training center, but that's okay. After having taken NRA BIT, NRA basic pistol instructor, and NRA CCW instructor here, I can more than confidently say that this is some top notch training with top notch instructors. Mike's reputation proceeds him each time I meet him; the amount of certificates he has from various instructors and organizations is thick enough to rival a Harry Potter book and it definitely shows. I look forward to taking more potential classes with him in the future.
By Lance Mitchell on Mar 24, 2025
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Thanks to Red Dot to start, Steve my instructor was great very informative and very knowledgeable on the subject. I learned a lot more about the use and handling of my semi automatic pistol. Safety first and maintenance. Great experience and lots of fun. Can’t wait for part 2 and the finish.
By Rog Rotunno on Feb 19, 2025
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I took CCL 1 and CCL 2 training this past weekend at Red Dot Arms. What a great experience!
The instructor for CCL1 (Steve) was absolutely fantastic and I learned so much. At no point in the 9 hours did I feel any of the material was needless or that time dragged. The pace of the day in class and at the range was perfect. With demonstrations, and Powerpoint, Steve engaging, credible, and approachable.

The instructor for CCL 2 (Mike) was a logical next step from day 1. Mike showed his passion and expertise the entire day. Mike clearly was not just "putting in time", he wanted to teach and teach proper and safe techniques. I again learned so much in the classroom and at the range. Again, Mike took time with each student. Mike made sure that we learned the proper technique to safely draw from and return to the holster in the classroom and on the range. I think this is just one thing that sets Red Dot training a part from others. I am far more confident with the skills and techniques Mike taught me. Thank you!

Once at the range time was taken to instruct and "tweak" every students technique.

If you're thinking of taking CCL training, I suggest you do. If you're going to train, train at Red Dot Arms! I HIGHLY recommend this course as it was well worth the investment. Thank you Steve, Mike, Larry and Nicole! Very much appreciate the knowledge. Five out of five! Great experience, great instructors.

I will come back for additional training!

Roger
By Jillian Plock on Feb 17, 2025
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I highly recommend Red Dot Arms Training Academy to everyone, regardless of whether you're a beginner or have 20 years of experience. Red Dot offers something for everyone. I gained a wealth of knowledge, and the instructors were exceptionally friendly, knowledgeable, patient, and, most importantly, safe. Mike, Steve, Larry, and Nicole are truly exceptional. Their commitment to continuous learning through constant classes not only enhances their own skills but also makes them outstanding teachers. Their extensive knowledge is inspiring and motivates me to keep learning from the best, who themselves have learned from the best. I will continue my education here; they have certainly gained a lifelong student and customer.

Additionally, a big thank you to Promised Land Sports Park. Despite the chilly and snowy weather, we had a blast!
By Rebecca Williams on Feb 02, 2025
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I recently completed my concealed carry license renewal class with Res Dot Arms Training Academy, and I have to say, it was an awesome experience! The instructors were incredibly knowledgeable and engaging, making the material was informative. The class covered essential topics in a clear and concise manner, and the hands-on training that Mike & Nicole provided was both practical and reassuring. I appreciated the emphasis on safety and responsible firearm handling. I left feeling more confident in my skills and understanding of the law. I will definitely be attending more of their classes, and I highly recommend the class to anyone.
By Adriano De Santis on Jan 12, 2025
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Where to start!!
Mike is great, the passion, the knowledge and level of detail are what sets him and his classes apart from any other.
I started with one class, know I have taken a couple and look to take many more.

Everything from using a marker to help you understand your grip, to really spending one on one time.

I highly recommend getting as many classes as you can, not only will you learn from the best, he will help you become one
By Olesya Pavelchak on Jan 12, 2025
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Great "skills, drills and fundamentals" class by Mike. Very detailed and technical. Beneficial for beginners and even advanced level people who are looking to improve their grip and trigger control. Mike gave a lot of individual attention and identified specific areas of improvement for each individual in our group. Highly recommend this course. Tremendous improvement after just one class.
By Wayne Peart on Dec 10, 2024
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Day one course with instructor Steve N.was very informative. All the class questions were answered. Day one range time was very good.The second day course was also very informative it covered legal responsibilities and options for liability insurance protection while carrying your firearm.
The owner, Mike R.was the second day instructor. He was really invested in having all the participants achieve all the course guideline objectives,the range instructors were right there to connect any issues you might be having.
Thank you, Mike, and all the staff.
By Diamond Ruffin on Nov 19, 2024
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10/10 experience! Both Mike and Steve were very welcoming, knowledgeable, and helpful. I was a bit nervous about going to the range with a large group of strangers but Mike made us all feel very safe. He was alert, corrective, and exuded confidence. It was evident that he valued our safety and was passionate about providing us the best experience. I 100% recommend taking the CCL class with Red Dot Arms!!
By Juan Diaz on Nov 12, 2024
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Steve and Brendon in the shop were truly amazing guys. It was my first time purchasing a firearm on my own since my pops passed and they made me feel like family. They were patient and informative. I brought in my special needs younger younger brother with me and they showed him so much love and attention while I sought out advice from Steve behind my purchase, he is also one of the firearms instructors there. I would recommend Red Dot to anyone who wants a welcoming family owned environment with no sacrifices on professionalism, fairness, and knowledge. Thanks again!
By Steven Smith on Oct 27, 2024
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Mike is a very knowledgeable and assertive instructor. He kept our attention through the entire CCL renewal class. I highly recommend Red Dot Arms for all your training needs.
By steven oltean on Oct 07, 2024
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Enjoyed the classroom lessons, simplified for us beginners. Our instructor, Steven, was very easy going but, extremely knowledgeable. Our intro to pistols class transitioned to the hands on range where instruction was then put into real use. Low pressure and skilled trainers, Michael, Nicole, and Steven eased us in on safety and actual target practice! A wonderful way to educate, fun and very affordable! I recommend Red Dot most highly! I look forward to continued learning and feel better prepared for their conceal carry class!
By hooked4life64 on Oct 07, 2024
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If you want the best instruction for all kinds of firearms training. Call Red Dot Arms🔴.
I am a gun owner, but neglected training for years. I decided to “jump the gun” ( no pun intended) and go straight for Conceal Carry. I took two instructional classes and two “hands on” classes at their outdoor shooting range.
I learned so much: How to safely handle a firearm for the best possible outcome, the differences in firearms as well as ammo.
Though intense at times, it was never less than a fantastic experience. The trainers Steve New and Michael Rioux’s professional and creative approach to training by instilling a muscle memory approach lends it’s self well to a great well-rounded process. There is personal attention by these very accomplished trainers to fine tune technique and establish from the start the proper habits. I HAD A BLAST. It is worth every minute and you will never see firearms in the same light. Pictured below are my targets.I used my own gun, but never fired it. That is their training. :)
Tina
By Brendon Rylander on Sep 29, 2024
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Took my CCL part one and part 2 this weekend. Steve and Mike were amazing instructors, very thorough with answering questions and going over class material. 10/10 would recommend for anyone looking for more knowledge/ training in the future!
By John Martoccio on Sep 09, 2024
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My wife and I took the CCL class this last weekend, and it was excellent. The first day was with Steve, he covered a lot of information, then we went to the range where we practiced sight picture and technique. The second day was with Mike, he covered more of the law, situations, scenarios and ramifications, then we went to range where we covered drawing from a holster, procedure, technique, safety, and was much more intense. Overall, we shot much more than the state requirement of 21, we went through at least 150 rounds each, as these instructors made sure that we handled, and learned proper safe procedures and understand the ramifications and responsibility of carrying a weapon. You may find someone cheaper, but you will not find better instructors. We took the NRA pistol class 10 years ago, and it was nothing like this class. I am extremely happy taking this from them, and will continue to take more classes to maintain and hone my skills.
By Denise Sanders on Aug 24, 2024
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My husband and I really enjoyed class. Steve was very informative, patient and made us feel safe . Demonstrating proper safety techniques handling a gun. Likes that they have 2 styles of guns to shoot, (revolver and Rueger with a magazine.
By Cordovan Skink on Aug 06, 2024
Guest Review
I am very happy I completed my CCL at Red Dot Arms. I am Novice level, and I was very timid and nervous about taking this course but everyone made me feel so safe and comfortable. Steve was the absolute best and truly made me feel so safe. Thank you to Larry for being so patient and helpful. Mike and Nicole were amazing as well. The knowledge and expertise that is shared amongst this entire group is very impressive! I plan to return and take even more courses to learn as much as possible.
By CNS_Hit on Aug 04, 2024
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Just finished a renewal class this weekend. The classroom portion was very informative and clearly presented. The instructor was extremely knowledgeable, organized and professional. He balanced legal definitions and real-world practical knowledge very effectively. The shooting phase was well organized, safely managed and controlled by the Range and Safety officers. The documents provided and the follow up were excellent as well. I highly recommend Red Dot Firearms and will be returning for more training. -T. Medina
By Natalie Potesta on Jul 29, 2024
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I am very happy I completed my CCL at Red Dot Arms. I am Novice level, and I was very timid and nervous about taking this course but everyone made me feel so safe and comfortable. Steve was the absolute best and truly made me feel so safe. Thank you to Larry for being so patient and helpful. Mike and Nicole were amazing as well. The knowledge and expertise that is shared amongst this entire group is very impressive! I plan to return and take even more courses to learn as much as possible.
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Established in 2012, Red Dot Arms Training Academy stands as the premier firearms training facility in Lake Villa, Illinois. Offering a vast array of courses tailored to individuals of all skill levels, from new firearms owners to experienced users, we leave no stone unturned in providing comprehensive training. Our classes span from essential firearms safety to advanced personal protection. The popularity of our Introduction to Pistol, Illinois Concealed Carry, and Illinois Concealed Carry renewal courses speaks volumes and they are regularly scheduled. Our Illinois Concealed Carry courses are renowned for their hands-on approach and extensive range time.
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