[Old Sarge]

Well, here's my blowhard best:

While becoming an Eagle Scout, I would help run rifle safety courses by starting with the old Daisy and Crossman air rifles and pistols. Those weapons taught target shooting practices, steady hold, sight picture, the works - all the stuff I aced in the Army.

The old Daisy 880 and Crossman 760 were my A-list pieces. Mechanically tough and reliable, which goes a long way.

For even younger ages, I'd recommend a low-power CO2 pistol. The child gets the idea of weapon weight, aiming techniques, weapon safety, etc.

The Boy, age 6, is getting used to the idea of projectile weapons. He's using my practice bow (30 lb. pull), and I'll introduce him to my crossbow next. The big thiing is, teaching the young'un to respect the weapon as a tool, and not just a toy.

Ahhh, but look who I'm talking to: he'll do fine, and you will, too!

[Long Cut]

Thanks for the confidence, Sarge. It means a lot, especially now as my family and I are enduring a "separated" tour.

I now relish every chance I can find to be a dad and a husband, as I have to take them in all-too-small doses.

It's nights like this that I miss them most, and I guess this thread was one way of doing something about it.

It has raised my spirits immeasurably.

[Long Cut]

Thanks for the confidence, Sarge. It means a lot, especially now as my family and I are enduring a "separated" tour.

I now relish every chance I can find to be a dad and a husband, as I have to take them in all-too-small doses.

It's nights like this that I miss them most, and I guess this thread was one way of doing something about it.

It has raised my spirits immeasurably.