Starter Gun - Advice Needed

[hunter44]

Well, my fifteen-yr old son is now ready for his first gun and I am not sure what I should get him, since I am also a novice. Should it be a rifle or a shotgun? If shotgun, what kind, what caliber, blue or stainless. What length of barrel. Lots of questions but I know this is the right place to ask them. (BTW he has "worn out" a few bbs.) But I am certain me and him will have some funtime together at the ranges.

 

[ajacobs]

I think we need a little more info. What do you plan to use it for. That will help determine if you want a rifle or a shotgun and what type.

 

[hunter44]

ajcobs,
I said it's for my son who is graduating from shooting his bb pellet gun. He will be training along with me!

 

[Amadeus]

Starter gun

Any .22 rifle or handgun is an excellent beginning firearm for learning the fundementals of shooting.

I like revolvers for beginners because of their ease of operation.

If you seek something a little larger - try a .38 revolver or a bolt action rifle in .308. Whether you get stainless or blued is purely subjective and has little bearing on anything else.

Honestly -- your best bet is to take a shooting course. These boards are good for getting general advice. But nothing can replace hands on training. There are many courses in shotgun/rifle/pistol offered through the NRA and local clubs. Take one - take them all!!

Along the way you'll have the chance to try numerous guns, become familiar with what they do and how they work. You'll learn what you like and what you don't. And most importantly -- it will give you a safe and comfortable venue inwhich you and your son can learn about this sport together.

Stay safe. Feel free to ask questions -- always.

 

[Dave McCracken]

First gun? I'll go along with tradition and suggest a 22 rifle.

Low cost, no kick, light enough for a youth to handle well,etc. Just make sure the stock's short enough and he/she can see the sights.

And, once the child is one no longer, the rifle can serve for practice, small game, competition and anything else.

Then, once the tin cans are slain and the tyro knows about safety, add another weapon. This could be a shotgun, these are marvelously versatile.

Go slowly, and lessons from a qualified instructor are suggested.

HTH...