What age to teach youngsters how to shoot?

[jjc7779]

I started when I was five and if my daughter shows interest I will probably do the same for her. As an FFL and fellow outdoors-man I consistently enforce gun and outdoor safety regardless of age. I will start her out on a Daisy BB gun, then chipmunk 22lr, and finally she will become part of the "514 club." My grandfather and I have an extremely large Remington 514 collection and every son/daughter and grandson/daughter will receive one and hopefully we will carry on the tradition as long as there is a 514 remaining.

 

[James 61]

... But as for the Op, 7 is the age I'd start bringing up the issue.

She caught me looking at chipmunk single shot .22s a couple of weeks ago and told me exactly which one she wants. So it really isn't a matter of bringing it up as she has already made up her mind that she wants a gun.

After talking it over with my wife we have decided to continue re-enforcing what we have already taught her regarding what to do if there is a gun laying around and also to start teacher her the 5 safety rules. Then when she is 6 I'll start teaching her about how to actually shoot. This way she will have a good solid foundation before she ever gets to shoot a gun.

 

[drbarnes]

My dad let me shoot a BB gun when I was in 3rd grade, about a year later my dad took me dove hunting with him, 20 gauge shotgun. I didnt shoot a handgun until I bought one myself when I was 22.