Firearms get a bad reputation as dangerous and unnecessary. While they are indeed dangerous in the wrong hands, they are a handy tool for those looking for protection in the home or while out and for people interested in outdoor activities like hunting.
The most important part of firearm ownership is education, so it’s imperative that learning how to handle them safely is done from an early age. Teaching children how to handle guns properly will show them how much of a responsibility it is. Here are some easy and fun ways to do this.
1. Introduce them to non-lethal firearms first.
There are plenty of alternatives to real firearms that kids can learn, so they can grasp basic concepts of firearm safety like trigger discipline and how to stow a firearm properly. Some excellent options include airsoft/bb guns and paintball guns, which will help them learn how to shoot, when not to aim a weapon, how to carry a firearm, etc. They aren’t the real thing, but it could get them interested in a safer manner. Another great and safe alternative are these gel guns by Gel Blaster.
2. Bring them to a firing range.
Whether you go to an indoor firing range or a range outdoors, this is a good place to show them in a real setting how you’d handle a firearm safely. Even if they are using an alternative to a real firearm, there are a wide variety of bb gun targets to teach them how to shoot properly. A range is also a good place to meet experienced people who have been using firearms for a long time, and they can impart a lot of information to the child.
3. Sit down and talk to them about firearms.
The worst thing a parent can do when discussing firearms and their purpose is to ignore the topic altogether and shelter a child from them. It’s natural that they would be curious about firearms, how they work, and what you use them for, so it’s crucial to sit down and have a good discussion about them. This is also a good time to gauge whether your child is interested in firearms or not. Give them a chance to listen and ask questions in an open dialogue.
4. Take them hunting.
Lastly, a very practical example of firearm usage, and one of the most common reasons people own firearms, is hunting. Whether it’s for sport or for collecting the meat, hunting is an integral part of the culture of firearm ownership, so bringing your child along may pique their interest. This is also a great way to spend quality time and teach them about the responsibilities of a good firearm owner.
Firearms aren’t a subject you should be shying away from with your children. In our modern world, firearms are seen everywhere, so it’s important to teach them the proper safety steps and the uses for firearms while they are young.
