[flipper35]

My daughter started at 5 with the toy gun/game you hook up to the TV to learn about always using the safety and muzzle discipline. When she could recite 4 gun safety rules without hesitation and show proper discipline she got a Red Ryder. The last two years we had a contest to see who could rid the yard of the most ground squirrels (I cheat using a pellet gun but I have old eyes) and she did well enough she got to shoot a single shot .22 at a range. We are thinking of a Ruger 10/22 for Christmas or her 10th birthday in January. She went deer hunting with us the last two ears and was disappointed the mentoring program starts at 10. Not that is mattered because she is not ready for a 30-06 or .270. Maybe a Mini-14 or a nice little Savage in .223. She would have had a 50 yard shot if she were eligible this year. She is still a little squeamish helping field dress a deer though.