Hunters can use the state police shooting ranges to sharpen up their skills and test out their shotguns before opening day. State Police Sergeant Matt Boerwinkle says the idea is to promote hunting safety and prevent accidents.

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Ranges in Joliet, Effingham, Macomb, Pawnee, and Pittsfield will be open this Saturday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. The program is only open to hunters and handguns will not allowed. Anyone interested in using the ranges should have a valid FOID card, have their own ammunition, and have their unloaded shotgun inside a case when they get to the range. They should also make a reservation before Saturday. Targets will be provided.