Getting kids to try shooting

[StangGT]

I was interested to learn the views of the forum as to how best to introduce kids to shooting?
After all, they are (hopefully) the future of the sport!
I have 3 girls myself (9,7 & 1); unfortunately I don't own enough land for them to try it at home but the 9yr old and the 7yr old would love to give it a go. Any thoughts folks? What is generally considered to be about the right age to start, and with what and where?

Thanks all

StangGT

[Demonic69]

I think the 2 eldest would be ok with a light .22, they make loads of youth models now. Or a normal rifle with some support.
Are you a member of a club? My club does open days and encourages children to shoot on them. Once they're full members, you get a joint membership, they can shoot with you whenever.
I can't wait til mine are old enough :-)

I don't read my own signature!

[StangGT]

Well I'm only probational at section 1 stuff but have been clay shooting since 2011. When I've enquired at clay grounds, they seem pretty disinterested as I suppose it's a hassle for them. What is the right age do you think?

[Demonic69]

As soon as they can hold a rifle in my opinion :-) Although I think if they're showing an interest it's the right age.

I don't read my own signature!

[Charlotte the flyer]

Is there an airgun shop with a plinking range out back that you can go? Start there (because it's quiet) then if they like it move on to .22lr

[Geek]

My Son shoot a 410 at a few clays aged about 9 when I was having a lesson at a clay range: he is keen to try other forms of shooting, he is now aged 10, nearly 11. Unfortunately the shooting ranges where I shoot either do not allow juniors under 14, or they are currently in discussion with GMP on the eligibility of under 17/18 to shoot.

I will keep you informed of progress.

[Dave 101]

Hi
7 is old enough to try a .22 lr , with eye and ear protection noise wont be a problem , here is a decent rifle for children
http://www.crickett.com/crickett_22_LR.php , single shot and the plunger on the rear of the bolt has to be pulled back to cock it once the bolt is closed so very safe to use . An alternative is to find an old garden gun in .22 rf less than £50 . Another idea is to ask around clubs and see if they have any old rifles for sale that have been used for younsters in the past .

Dave

[StangGT]

Where to shoot it tho Dave101? I think I might get a little air rifle and set up a tin can alley at my folks' place... Could be a bit of fun...

[zzr1100]

I started my daughter with an air rifle when she was 5 ... A .410 when she was 7 .. She is now 11 and beat me in the club "skill at arms" competition at Xmas !!
(I won't allow her to shoot unsupervised)

[Alpha1]

My grandson is 15 he has had a go with .22 bolt action a 38 special underlever. Air weapons since he was about 13.
He has just discovered girls and thinks they are much more interesting.