No one can argue that one of the most important things we can do as responsible gun owners is to properly introduce a new enthusiast to firearm handling and ownership by emphasizing safety and the related responsibilities. Whether you are about to deal with an adult who has never had the opportunity to hunt or enjoy any of the shooting sports or introducing a youth for the first time to proper handling of firearms, there are several things to keep in mind.
First and foremost is firearm handling safety, regardless of the age of the person you are teaching. But, we must keep in mind that young students are naturally curious about most things, and you really need to take whatever time is necessary to break down your descriptions and keep things simple. Initially, open the action of whatever firearm you are talking about and make sure the student verifies that the gun is empty. We always say, “Treat any gun as if it is always loaded.” Good advice, but checking the chamber to verify that it truly is empty is an important step to engrain into someone who is not used to handling firearms. Satisfy their natural curiosity by explaining the mechanics of the firearm you are working with. By helping someone develop an informed understanding of guns and how to treat them, you will help ensure they will be safe.
There are a number of points to be made that will help a new gun handler become more comfortable with owning or handling a firearm and understanding why many people do enjoy having firearms. A good percentage of gun owners begin shooting by plinking with a .22 rifle or BB gun, and it is always good practice for gun handling and marksmanship to spend time firing a light caliber gun. Ease a new shooter into the various shooting sports with the lighter caliber handguns or rifles; then, once they are comfortable, you can move them up to larger firearms. When introducing someone to the shotgun, begin with a .410, 28, or 20 gauge before advancing to a 12 gauge. Many firearms manufacturers make a youth model of their most popular models — from .22 calibers to mid-size calibers and many smaller gauge shotguns. The point is to ease into shooting as gently as possible — it will make the introduction much more fun.
During the early stage of gun handling, it is important to talk — especially to young enthusiasts — about what to do if they happen to find a gun. They should: Stop, Do Not Touch the Gun, Move Away Quickly and Find an Adult. This is a critical sequence that every young person should understand, whether or not they hope to someday handle a firearm. Even if it looks like a toy gun — Do not handle it; move away and find an adult to handle the situation. They should assume it is a real gun and act appropriately.
It is important to talk to young enthusiasts about just why people have guns and what their various uses are. While they are designed to kill, they can be a useful tool in the hands of a responsible gun owner. There are many collectors of guns who enjoy the history of the ones they have collected, many folks who enjoy having them for hunting or the various shooting sports, and there are some homeowners who have a firearm or two to protect their family and home. There is much to be said in stressing the importance of being a respectful and responsible gun owner, and it is never too early to plant these ideas into the head of a young enthusiast.
Even if you feel a child is too young to actually handle or shoot a firearm, it is never too early to talk to a young person about the things that are stated above. You can take them at a later date to a nearby shooting range to begin the hands-on training. They should also be aware that if they come across a person who appears to be handling a firearm in an irresponsible manner, they should say something to an adult. Safe and proper gun handling is much too important to not report unsafe activity to someone.
