On 07-02-03, ROY J. said:


RJ>Five year old Amanda just found out that "Grampa has a gun".  I don't
RJ>think she's quite ready to take out to the range yet,  not that I'm
RJ>going to be neglecting safety considerations.  Probably be a few
RJ>years before she's ready,  eh?

RJ>Or do some of you guys out there manage to start 'em younger than 8
RJ>or 9 or so?

I believe it depends entirely on the individual's maturity, both 
physical (she/he/it has to be able to operate the mechanism of the 
firearm and hold it steady) and mental (he/she/it has to be able to make 
good decisions).

That being said, I personally think 10 years of age is the earliest I'd 
think about it.  Before that it's OK for him/her/it to go with you, 
learn some good safety habits and possibly try firing a round (with 
proper hearing protection) but any serious training can wait.

þ CMPQwk 1.42 28 þHe does the work of 3 Men...Moe, Larry & Curly
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