JUMP TO SECTION
Jump To:
- Age appropriate responses to the presence of a gun
- Learn how to handle a gun without endangering others
- Learn how to shoot with accuracy and competence.
- Situational awareness
- Boy Scouts of America Marksmanship teams
- JROTC shooting teams
- Junior Rifle Club (As an NRA distinguished expert junior shooter, I used to help younger members of the team)
Choosing the Right Gun
When you are choosing gun models for a child to learn on, never forget that there is no such thing as a “toy” gun. If a device can deliver a projectile, it must be handled with respect and consideration. With that in mind, here are the guns and ammo caliber choices that I have found work best for youths:Daisy 1938 Red Ryder BB Gun
Gamo Silent Cat Air Rifle (.177) with 4X32mm Scope
Crickett Youth Model
Henry Mini-Bolt Youth Rifle
Marlin XT-22 Rimfire Rifle
Seeking Out a Neutral Instructor
As a boy, my father refused to teach me how to shoot, even though he was more than capable. I was surprised to find that some rural community dwellers shared the reasons that he gave me:- A parent might forgive or overlook dangerous actions.
- Even minor coddling can lead to injury or death for someone later on.
- An experienced instructor will recognize mistakes in form faster.
- Good quality instructors know how to get students to progress with speed and efficiency.
- Gun ownership and use are not solitary pursuits, and should not be seen as such.
- Good marksmanship is a fundamental of safety. Objective teachers are the best ones.
- Bonds built between adults and contemporaries are critical to long term safety and competence.
Seeking Out a Competent Community Instructor
Most people today don’t live in a town where gun traditions have been handed down for centuries. The following groups will be of help no matter where you live:Eddie Eagle Gunsafe Program
NRA Youth Shooting Program
In traditional communities, children start hunting when they are about 6 years old. Eddie Eagle is an excellent program for city dwellers and others that do not plan to own guns. But much more is needed for those who will be involved with firearms. The NRA Shooting Program combines resources to meet the needs of all ages and skill levels. Visit the site to see what is available in your area, and most suitable for your children.4-H Clubs Shooting Education Program
National Junior Shooting Camps
Shooting camps have safe, well designed sites located throughout the country. Many of these groups focus on sports marksmanship. This includes preparation for shooting in the Olympics and other international competitions. Their common mission is to provide highly trained and qualified coaches. They are also an excellent resource for advancing junior marksmanship goals.Hunting Lodges
Keep Your Child Socially Connected
Responsible gun ownership, gun safety, and good marksmanship are all lifelong journeys. Practicing good habits and remaining in contact with suitable peers is necessary. Here are some programs and suggestions that can help your child stay on the right track now and for life:A Girl and a Gun
Today, the rate of women becoming new gun owners continues to increase at an exponential rate. Parents that want daughters to get the best possible training should try this group. This organization is also open to adult women that have an interest in being better gun owners.NRA Membership
Junior membership gives access to media on shooting sports, safety, competitive shooting and hunting. Youths also gain free entry to the NRA annual show. The NRA also has programs for adults featuring issues related to gun ownership.NRA Home Airguns Program
This program focuses on the use of airguns and their use in marksmanship development. Parents, teachers, and activity leaders can learn how to select BB guns or air guns. You will also learn how to construct both permanent and temporary ranges.Other Groups
In these days, simply being a safe gun owner and good marksman is not enough. Youths that don’t know their legal responsibilities will have problems later on. USCCA, NAGR, and other legislative action groups may not be for children and youths. As your children mature, you may feel it is appropriate to introduce them to these groups.Understand Why You Want Your Children to Learn About Guns
When I ask parents why they want their children to have a gun, I am often met with silence. Some may say they want their child to take part in a sport. Others say they want their child to be able to hunt for food. Most parents will not say they are worried about rising crime rates, yet this is a valid reason to learn how to use a gun. No parent wants to think about a time when their child may have to use a gun for self defense. Being clear about why you want your child to learn how to use a gun is a vital key to choosing a good instructor. Each time your child practices firing a gun, they will be developing muscle memory. Bad habits can spell disaster while good ones can lead to many rewards. Expensive guns or accessories won’t take the place of good training and quality practice. As a police officer I have seen what can happen when children and adults misuse firearms. Just because someone is “under age” that does not mean a gun is a toy. Nor does it mean that serious injury or death won’t result from careless actions. When choosing the best gun for your children, remember it will change your child’s life. Make sure that you include the following points in your purchasing decision:- Good instructors
- Age appropriate firearms
- A sound social support structure
- Respect for public safety
- Knowledge of gun laws and how they work
- Clear understanding gun uses
2 Leave a Reply
The Red Ryder is the first step towards fun and safety. My parents bought me one at 5 and another at 12 years old. Both of which have been maintained amazingly and been through a lot of use (obviously). At 28, nothing feels more comfortable than picking this beauty up and hearing the ping of a tin can.
Hi Herman, that's awesome to hear and that you still have it.