Teaching kids to shoot....

[ALASKACAJUN]

I don't know how politically correct this post will be, but, here goes...

When I was 7 my Dad gave me a BB gun and in Louisiana at the time it was awright for a young man to walk around with a BB gun. So as you can probably imagine I can shoot pretty good due to plenty of practice. When I was 10 I upgraded to a .22 and shot up the world. And as long as I didn't try to kill the neighbors dog or Mom's squirrels and song birds I was O.K. I learned to be safe and treat a gun with respect at an early age.

Well today I have a 9 year old, he has a BB gun, but is only allowed to shoot it with my supervision. And this Christmas, Santa got him a .22, we go out to the range together and I have to admit he's a pretty good shot.

But here's the big question, he won't be able to shoot as much (due to logistical reasons) as I did. So since I was never "instructed" on how to shoot without a rest, how am i supposed to teach him this? Is he going to learn on his own? I learned by myself through trial and error, but I want to be able to instruct him. Like control your breathing, try to hold the gun steady... I'm just having a problem conveying to him on how to shoot free hand, any suggestions?

- Clint

 

[nico]

I don't have any firsthand experience with it (but those who do can chime in), but I've heard great things about this kit. It's basically a whole curriculum for learning how to shoot better, complete with targets. I'll buy it one of these days when I get enough spare time to really give it enough effort.

 

[rust collector]

I learned from Jack O'Connor

Read everything of his I could find back in the 60s. Then picked up more pointers from shooting smallbore target rifle with a local club. A certain amount of learning by doing, but usually with Dad or a trusted friend along.

It's the era of simulators, video, and laser/paintball games, but I still think there's a lot to recommend a some study, hands on demonstration, and thoughtful practice to inculcate basic concepts and safety procedures. Step up from pellet to .22rf to light centerfire and explore different positions, use of slings, shooting sticks and bench technique. It's just naturally fun for both of you.

 

[Selfdfenz]

I never was a dog but I've trained several and trained more than a few people to train theirs.

Part of being a good teacher/coach is (a) being observant (2) being able to break things into different parts and then work on the pieces with an eye to how each touches the whole.

Am I right in thinking you want to teach him to shoot from a rest...what kind of rest....like bench rest?

I've been working with my son on the same issue.

Best,
S-

 

[cabinboy]

Take a look here -- you'll likely want to condense it a bit for the young shooter, but the basics are here:

http://rwva.blogspot.com/2005/02/rifleman-series-part-three-learning-to.html

http://rwva.blogspot.com/2005/02/rifleman-series-part-four-firing-shot.html

http://rwva.blogspot.com/2005/02/rifleman-series-part-five-natural.html

http://rwva.blogspot.com/2005/02/rifleman-series-part-six-common-firing.html

Also, teach him how to use a $2 web sling...you send an address to [email protected] and I'll send you one, gratis.

You're doing God's work by teaching new shooters....but you know that.

 

[gaston_45]

Hi Alaskan,

I don't know if there are any clubs near you but 4-H has a shooting sports program to teach just the thing you are looking for!

http://www.uaf.edu/coop-ext/4h/shootingsports/index.html

That is the link to your state program, there is also a national program that might help, but I have met a few of your state trainers and they are excellent instructors and should be able to help you out.

http://www.4-hshootingsports.org/

That is the national link, both should have the links to resources that will provide the needed information to teach your kids. 4-H is always looking for interested people to start clubs, you might think about starting one and teaching other kids as well as your own. The age ranges from 8 to 18 and the kids can earn scholarships for college by persuing the shooting sports.

I hope this helps.