[alf]

Thanks Jeff, great insight. I might just get the .177.

BerrettaFan
I do not think it is safer. I was taught to shoot (by a foreign govt) at 12 with a pellet gun, then .22 at 13 and M16 at 14. National marksman champion in all 3 for my age group.

Recoil management, good sight and trigger control is easier to learn on air rifles than M16s, particular for kids. Range and safety precautions the same on all 3 with a staff sargent willing to literally kick you in the ass while you are in a prone position if you mess up.