Jack Package
Member
Just wondering what everyone thinks should be the right age for a child to get a gun and what it should be. Common knowledge saying 8-10 and a .22 for me it was 12 and a 8mm Kar98k.
Agree, no two children mature at the same rate. Old enough is when the child has matured to the point they are mature enough to understand the workings of a gun and related safety.My opinion is at an age where the child can comprehend the dangers associated with handling a firearm.
For some children this could be as early as 4-5.
I also believe that a .22 is a great starter rifle for a child.
I am a member at 2 clubs and frequently see small children with their parents learning to shoot which is what is needed for our sport to survive.
Yes it depends on the maturity of the child. Having taught Hunter's Education for 10 years I would have to put the age at 8 to 10. The great thing about teaching HE is the fact that I don't have to pass them if I would not feel comfortable while hunting with them. I have seen men in their 50's that I would not hunt with.Agree, no two children mature at the same rate. Old enough is when the child has matured to the point they are mature enough to understand the workings of a gun and related safety.
Ron
This is suggested from time to time, and taking a kid to Appleseed is a great idea. However, it probably isn't a very good idea for basic firearms introduction. I wouldn't try to introduce a kid to firearms by taking them to any large organized shooting event. They should have the four rules and basic operation down, and be comfortable and safe with a gun, IMHO, before they're handed to an instructor for skills development.Take your kid to Appleseed when they are 11 or 12. Best shooting program there is. You and they will get a chance to shoot a rifle like a rifle and see what works best.