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General Discussion => General Forum => Topic started by: Crappie16 on February 21, 2026, 05:40:37 AM

Title: Help with a first timer shooter
Post by: Crappie16 on February 21, 2026, 05:40:37 AM
My 10 year old granddaughter is wanting to hunt this year. We got her a 410 the problem i am having is she is very leary of shooting it.  She has not yet shot it.  She wont even shoot a 22. One of her fears is the sound we got her some ear muffs. I have started several kids shooting never had a problem any advice is appreciated. 
Title: Re: Help with a first timer shooter
Post by: Yoder409 on February 21, 2026, 06:41:14 AM
Red Ryder BB gun first.   No noise.  No recoil.  But gets the process of shooting going in her head.  Use a reactive target like a soup can (safety glasses !!).

When she's ready to graduate to a .22, use CB or Short ammo.  Baby steps. 

She'll be ready only when SHE'S ready.  Better to wait til next season than rush things, if need be.
Title: Re: Help with a first timer shooter
Post by: Davyalabama on February 21, 2026, 07:25:54 AM
Quote from: Yoder409 on Today at 06:41:14 AMRed Ryder BB gun first.  No noise.  No recoil.  But gets the process of shooting going in her head.  Use a reactive target like a soup can (safety glasses !!).

When she's ready to graduate to a .22, use CB or Short ammo.  Baby steps. 

She'll be ready only when SHE'S ready.  Better to wait til next season than rush things, if need be.
Agreed, she doesn't sound like she's ready for it.  Start with a bb gun.  You two go pick it out, get one that has enough ummph that will hit where you aim, consistently, maybe even one that will gravitate to a pellet as well. 
Also, do you have a crossbow?  My four year-old granddaughter loves shooting mine (supervised, of course), that gives noise, some recoil, and fun for her.
Title: Re: Help with a first timer shooter
Post by: davisd9 on February 21, 2026, 08:24:29 AM
Do you have another grandchild or kid similar in age and stature? If so and they will shoot it, take them out together and do not pressure her. If she sees someone similar shooting it with no issues then it may calm her anxiety over it.


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Title: Re: Help with a first timer shooter
Post by: jmart241 on February 21, 2026, 08:46:13 AM
Had good luck with a dummy shell aiming with red dot all winter first shot with live shell was at turkey worked perfect