After years in the works, Sheepdog Firearms Supply, 4049 W 100 N in Peru, is finally having its grand opening April 13. Owner John Hilgeman said that starting at 1 p.m. there will be door prizes, including a grand prize giveaway for a Ruger 10/22 worth $450. 

More than just your average gun store, Sheepdog Firearms Supply has been a dream turned to reality for Hilgeman. An army veteran and former police officer, firearms and firearm safety has been a passion Hilgeman for decades. The name of the business, Hilgeman said, is symbolic of his mindset on protection firearms provides. 

Years in the making, Hilgeman currently works full-time at Chrysler in Kokomo, with hopes of retirement in the future.

Partners Bridget Buchanan and Stephanie Campbell will be helping Hilgeman run the firearm store, which will be open Tuesday to Friday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Buchanan and Campbell will also have their own section of the shop for a more feminine feel on firearms. 

On top of selling firearms, Hilgeman's passion for teaching about safety and sufficiency has also led him to the process of starting Indiana Sheepdog League, a firearms training academy. Classes will include Hilgeman teaching about the laws, how to legally protect yourself, the technical capabilities of weapons, physical capabilities to match the participants firearms, and more.