mainmech48
Member
In addition to the 317, S&W also has the M63 (in SS) and M34 "Kit Guns". Same basic design without the exotic and expensive materials.
Taurus has the M94, a nine-shot DA revolver of similar dimensions for a good deal less money. Very durable and quite accurate with the right ammo. Quite worthy of consideration, IMO.
I still would argue that a SA revolver such as the Ruger Bearcat would be the better choice for instilling the basics of handgun safety and marksmanship in children.
The SA mechanism keeps the number of variables involved in it's operation to the minimum. Each step must be repeated in the same order every time whether loading, unloading or firing it. Each repetition reinforces the use of proper technique for successful completion. By requiring that this sequence of deliberate actions be repeated before every shot it creates an opportunity for correcting errors and reinforcing good habits.
I'd also highly recommend the use of "reactive" targets at first. Anything which gives a visual or auditory signal when hit will do. Whether it falls over, clangs, or swings when it's hit it provides the immediate positive reinforcement young kids need to build both interest and skill. The earlier in the teaching process that a "reward" for proper action is introduced, the more likely they are to want to do it again.
Paper targets can come afterwards when their confidence and attention have been engaged enough for them to want to see how they can do it "better".
Just my $0.02, but it's worked for me with four nephews, a niece, and a couple of carloads of the children of friends.
Taurus has the M94, a nine-shot DA revolver of similar dimensions for a good deal less money. Very durable and quite accurate with the right ammo. Quite worthy of consideration, IMO.
I still would argue that a SA revolver such as the Ruger Bearcat would be the better choice for instilling the basics of handgun safety and marksmanship in children.
The SA mechanism keeps the number of variables involved in it's operation to the minimum. Each step must be repeated in the same order every time whether loading, unloading or firing it. Each repetition reinforces the use of proper technique for successful completion. By requiring that this sequence of deliberate actions be repeated before every shot it creates an opportunity for correcting errors and reinforcing good habits.
I'd also highly recommend the use of "reactive" targets at first. Anything which gives a visual or auditory signal when hit will do. Whether it falls over, clangs, or swings when it's hit it provides the immediate positive reinforcement young kids need to build both interest and skill. The earlier in the teaching process that a "reward" for proper action is introduced, the more likely they are to want to do it again.
Paper targets can come afterwards when their confidence and attention have been engaged enough for them to want to see how they can do it "better".
Just my $0.02, but it's worked for me with four nephews, a niece, and a couple of carloads of the children of friends.
