From: osan@cbnewsb.cb.att.com (Mr. X)
Newsgroups: rec.guns
Subject: Re: Youth Shooter Questions
Date: 9 Sep 92 21:27:36 GMT
Organization: Twilight Zone

In article <9209082256.AA27306@hplsdmc.col.hp.com> saksa@col.hp.com (Tom Saksa) writes:
#My daughter, (age 9), has recently returned from a two week kids
#summer camp where she did some conoeing, riding, archery, and
#shooting.  Since then she expressed an interest in learning more
#about target shooting, and I wish to oblige her if it can be done
#reasonably safely.  I am hoping for a bit of advice, and the
#answers to the following questions.
#
#   1. Is 9 a good age, or should I try to hold off?  I know that
#   this is probably somewhat dependent on the child and other
#   situations.  My daughter is very responsible and I do not under
#   any circumstances plan to allow her any unsupervised time with
#   any firearm! 

	9 is IMO quite alright, i.e. it is by no means too young, especially
	as she sounds like she is both up to it in terms of maturity and
	enthusiasm.  Next to good health, a good general education and a good
	home, this is about the best thing you can give her.

#   2. What should I use to teach fire arm safety?  I have a Daisy
#   air rifle, and it seems to have the features I would want.  It
#   is singlely loaded in the rear with a bolt like action.  It also
#   has a safely similar to those on many 22 rifles.  I also have
#   a 22 rifle, but it is a semi auto, and may not be a good
#   choice.

	I would certainly start her (or any child) with the air rifle.  But
	if she is a fast learner and can demonstrsate to you that she knows
	how to properly handle a projectile weapon, I would not be terribly 
	hesitant to graduate her to the .22.  Chances are she will be a bit
	itchy to use a "real" firearm.  Kids recognize power objects and are
	naturally attracted to them.  If her head is screwed on straight, there
	is really no need to frustrate her interests.  Before you know it,
	she'll be begging you to take a crack at the ole' 30-06 =8^o.

#
#   3. Where do I find shooting glasses in a size that works well
#   for kids.  I cannot find child sized safety glasses anywhere.

	How about welders goggles?  I'm talking about the type typically used 
	in gas welding and hard brazing.  The  eye pieces are separate one from
	the other, joined by a small chain and there is an adjustable head
	band.  You should be able to get these with clear lenses.  They are
	comfortable, very adjustable and should afford the necessary protection
	for your girls eyes with the proper fit, though they look a bit strange
	I will admit.

#   My daughter has used adult safety glasses at times and finds
#   they tend to either get in the way, fall off, become
#   uncomfortable, or all three.

	Poor fillting glasses are not a joke.  Such are just this side of
	being as dangerous as wearing nothing.  Look, if you have problems
	finding something that works right, let me know and I'll send you
	an extra pair that I'm sure I have lying around.  I'd hate to hear
	about the little girl that lost an eye, eh??

#   4. Should I not do any training at all, and get her into a
#   club, class, or other program?
#
	I think this depends on at least 2 things.  First, your relationship.
	If you get along real well in teacher/student types of activities, 
	then I see no reason why you could not do it yourself.  But if things
	tend to go the way of "boyfriend teaching girlfriend how to drive",
	then I'd probably leave the task up to some dispassionate third party.

	Second, are you qualified to do so.  Reasons should be self evident.

	Oh, and a third reason: What would SHE prefer?  Some kids like to do
	these kinds of things with a bunch of other kids while others prefer
	to go it one on one.
	
#Any help would be appreciated.
#

	Hope this helps.

	-Andy V.