Intro Rifle

Status
Not open for further replies.
M

Mantua

Member
Joined
Jun 5, 2007
Messages
88
Location
Central Florida
I'm looking for a rifle to introduce my niece (6yo) to shooting. Lever action would be ideal, maybe even semi-auto, I'd just prefer something that's not single-shot. Would a .410 shotgun or 20ga be too much for a kid to handle? What about a .22lr revolver? I'm absolutely clueless about what to do here, but I've got a couple months time before I actually get to go up north (VT) and see the kiddos.
I'm hoping to spend less than $200, including S&H and FFL fees over the 'net. Thanks guys :D
 
Shotgun too much...22lr good rifle good! Then you can think about a pistol once you feel gun saftey is being observed!
 
Do you think pistols are less safe than rifles? That had never occurred to me. I figured that, if anything, a pistol would be easier for a little one to handle.
 
don't recommend a 410 for any kid. They have such small pellet charge they are for more accurate shooter (except I like them for squirrel hunting) They kick just as hard as a 20 ga. so I would get a 20 when she is older. Definitely get a 22 or a pellet rifle, can be shot indoors and are extremely cheap to shoot and not as dangerous.
 
Don't give a kid a handgun before a long gun, much more difficult to "watch the muzzle". Go with a stock Ruger 10/22, cheap dependable, and easy to learn.
 
A pistol is harder to maintain safety control of that is where the gun is being pointed while not firing. A single shot is best because you can tell if it is safe. It's broke open.
 
Good to know :D
Is the 10/22 Compact "Child Sized"? She's six, and what we call "big boned", but I'm concerned about her getting both hands on it. I'm going to help her hold it, but I want it to be something she can use all by her self.
She's a Big Girl, Uncle Mantua ;).
Thanks for all the help, guys.
 
The 10/22 should be fine, take her to the gun shop and check the fit if your concerned. It's not very heavy, not "child sized", but not large either...
 
*shrug* My first rifle was the Winchester 1890 in .22 Short. It was pretty heavy, and when the hammer fell, it would obstruct the view of the iron sights, precluding good follow through. I would go with any fairly short and light .22 LR bolt action, and single load for teaching purposes.
Hold magazines in reserve for down the road, once fundamentals have been mastered and safety rules fully internalized. Shooting isn't any less fun for being more deliberate.
 
10/22. I can't think of a better first gun, except maybe a bolt .22 (my first shooting experience as a wee lad).
 
Status
Not open for further replies.
Back
Top