Latest local news, weather and high school sports for Tri-State area

CARTHAGE, ILL. -- The Hancock County Gun Club wants to make sure that women know how to safely operate a firearm.

This year, the Women's Day event will take place on Saturday, June 2 starting at 10 a.m and will include lunch.

There is no cost to attend the shooting class and all materials for the day such as firearms and ammo will be provided.

"We're not trying to teach everything. We're just trying to teach how to operate a gun safely," Kameron Miller, the club's secretary said.

The club will provide .22 caliber rifles and handguns for use, but women are free to bring in other firearms they would like to learn how to use safely.

Small caliber guns such as .22s have low recoil and less noise than larger caliber guns, making them easier for shooters just starting out.

.38 and .45 caliber guns will be available in the indoor shooting range for anyone interested in trying them out or considering them as a choice for home protection.

Miller warns that oftentimes people choose a higher caliber gun for self defense when a smaller gun would work and is easier to handle.

Attendees will also have a chance to learn trap shooting.

The gun club hopes to encourage responsible firearm use and get women interested in shooting sports.

Hancock County Gun Club will also soon be featured in the public television series Illinois Stories.

The club is located in just north of Carthage, Illinois on Rt. 4.