Celebrating its 25th year, the Tri-County Gun Club open house is scheduled for May 2 and May 3, running from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. The event is free and open to the public, offering a unique opportunity for both experienced firearm enthusiasts and first-time visitors to explore the club’s facilities and learn more about firearm safety and recreation in a controlled, educational environment.
Located just north of the village of Hazelhurst between Polo and Milledgeville, the Tri-County Gun Club remains a hidden gem for many in the Sauk Valley region despite its long history dating back to 1965. The open house serves to introduce the community to the club’s expansive grounds and diverse programming, especially for those who may not realize the facility is nearby.
Throughout the weekend, attendees can explore multiple ranges, including two long-range rifle areas, nine additional shooting bays, and a trap shooting range near the clubhouse. Each area is staffed by experienced members who provide hands-on guidance and instruction. Safety remains a top priority, with all activities conducted under direct supervision to ensure participants understand proper handling and operation.
A major highlight of the event is the opportunity for guests to try a wide variety of firearms at no cost. Ammunition for most activities is provided through support from Friends of NRA, allowing visitors to safely experience different types of firearms without the typical financial barrier. Specialty experiences, such as firing a .50 caliber rifle, are available for an additional fee due to the higher cost of ammunition.
Education is a central focus of the open house, with club members emphasizing the importance of proper training and responsible firearm use. The event is designed to create a welcoming atmosphere for individuals of all experience levels, from those completely new to firearms to seasoned participants looking to refine their skills.
On Saturday, May 2, the club will also host a Women on Target session, a free training course specifically designed for women and led by female instructors. The program aims to provide a comfortable and supportive introduction to shooting sports. Due to limited availability, advanced registration is required through the club’s website.
In addition to the educational opportunities, the open house offers a full day of entertainment and community engagement. Food trucks will be on-site, including Kuster’s Last Stand from Freeport, serving classic favorites such as burgers and cheese curds. Organizers are also working to bring in a coffee vendor to round out the experience.
Fundraising plays a key role in the weekend, with a variety of raffles available to participants. The main raffle includes multiple prizes, such as firearms and gift certificates, while bucket raffles feature a wide assortment of items, including gun cases, cleaning kits, optics, apparel, and more. Winners do not need to be present at the time of drawing, which typically begins on Sunday afternoon.
The event takes place rain or shine and has historically drawn large crowds, with attendance sometimes reaching more than 1,000 people over the course of the weekend. Organizers encourage early arrival, as eager attendees often line up well before the gates open.
The Tri-County Gun Club open house continues to serve as both a celebration of the club’s legacy and a gateway for community members to learn about firearm safety, recreation, and responsible ownership in a structured and welcoming setting.
For more information, visit their website at tcgc.net.
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