EAST ALTON, IL (June 28, 2022) — In 1952, the late John Olin, then-president of Olin Industries, Winchester’s parent company, had a vision of linking hunting, shooting, champion gun dogs and conservation and began transforming 650 acres of barren pasture in Brighton, Illinois, near the Mississippi River into an ideal habitat of fields, timber and water. This year, the NILO he made turns the landmark age of 70, watch the NILO short film.
From the beginning, NILO (Olin spelled backward) has had a strong connection to Winchester. It has been the testing grounds for legendary Winchester ammunition products including AA® shotshells, and a prime destination to learn about the rich Winchester history. As one of the nation’s most renowned hunting and shooting preserves, NILO has played host to celebrities in sports and entertainment, famous outdoor writers, as well as political dignitaries and corporate leaders. Even more important, NILO continues to be a prime destination for the general hunting and shooting public.
October to March, hunters, with veteran guides and NILO’s famed Labrador retrievers, experience some of the finest pheasant and thrilling chukar hunting. Throughout the year, there are opportunities to shoot trap and skeet, sporting clays, 5-stand, and crazy quail on its pristine grounds. Additionally, special events — such as the NILO Open and the Kids & Clays Shoot — are regularly held. NILO also accommodates groups or individuals for shooting instruction from certified instructors.
The welcome sign is out at historic NILO, and the NILO team will arrange your memorable day or two at the farm, where you’ll find the traditions of hunting, conservation and the shooting sports alive and well that have always been the pride of Winchester. Read more