Traditionally, men have always been drawn to weapons. Swords, bows, sticks - you name it. But guns, oh guns, hold a special place in our hearts. There's just something about the adrenaline rush when they go off, the sense of power they provide. However, in today's world, more and more women are stepping up to take charge of family and personal safety. Regardless of who takes the lead, involving your partner in your firearm pursuits is crucial. It ensures that both individuals are aligned on firearm safety and responsible ownership, reducing the risk of accidents or misunderstandings at home.

But what about the children? You may have wondered. This can sometimes lead to disagreements between spouses. Rest assured, the answer is clear-cut. Should kids be involved? Absolutely, yes.

Keeping your child unaware of the presence of a firearm in the household can lead to devastating outcomes. If a child accidentally discovers a firearm in the home due to a lack of awareness, the mishandling of it out of curiosity and lack of knowledge it is unavoidable. Proper storage is essential, for every gun owner, even if there are no children in the household. However, there is always a chance of misplacing a firearm, and that could be the day a child finds it. Children who are not exposed to handling firearms properly and safely are more likely to be involved in accidental discharges. They may even more likely to try to gain access to the firearm without supervision, leading to a potential disaster. By involving children in firearm safety training, parents can reduce these risks and ensure that children comprehend the importance of responsible firearm handling. This approach will foster a profound respect for firearms, awareness of their dangers, the significance of proper storage and usage, and the legal and ethical obligations associated with firearm ownership.

Maintain an ongoing and transparent conversation with your children. you can dispel the curiosity and mystery surrounding firearms. Allow them to observe, touch, and handle the firearm under your supervision, but only after thoroughly checking and double-checking that the weapon is unloaded and safe to handle. Emphasize the immense weight of responsibility that comes with firearms and highlight that it is an inherent right that should never be infringed upon by governmental authorities. Educate your kids thoroughly on the appropriate course of action if they encounter an unsecured firearm, whether it be in your residence, a friend's dwelling, or even at school. It is of utmost importance that they understand the significance of not touching the firearm and instead promptly seek out a responsible adult to ensure the situation is addressed safely and responsibly.

Remind them at all times, that the portrayal of gun handling in TV, movies, and video games is purely for entertainment purposes and should not be imitated in real life, just like how you wouldn't throw yourself a glass window in real life. They must understand that these are fictional representations and not to be replicated in reality.

As your child matures, it is important to address the topic of negligent firearms handling incidents that frequently make headlines on news outlets and social media platforms. Emphasize the significance of responsible gun ownership and discuss preventive measures that could have been taken to avoid such tragedies.

Additionally, as they transition into adulthood, introduce the concept of self-defense in relation to firearms, along with the legal and moral considerations that accompany it. Encourage them to understand the gravity of using lethal force, even in situations where self-defense may seem justified, and highlight the emotional repercussions of taking another person's life.

Here are some key points to help introduce your children to firearms:

• Age: The optimal age for introducing firearm education may differ for every child, but typically, around 8 or 9 years old is considered an appropriate time. At this age, children are more than capable of grasping and adhering to safety protocols. However, discussions about firearms should commence as soon as they are able to comprehend.

• The 4 universal rules of gun safety: Make sure to explain them and the potential consequences of breaking these rules.

  • Always treat the firearm as it is loaded.
  • Keep the finger off the trigger, until you are ready to fire.
  • Keep the muzzle pointing in a safe direction. Never point it at anything you do not wish to destroy.
  • Know your target and what lies behind it.

• First steps: Airsoft guns are a great way for children, or anyone in general, to learn about firearm safety in a controlled setting. They provide a realistic experience without the danger of real ammunition. Safety glasses are the only necessary protective gear. However, it's important to remember that airsoft guns should not be underestimated in terms of power. They are distinct from traditional steel BBs or pellet airguns, which can be significantly harmful, as they are specifically designed for shooting people in a sporting setting similar to paintball. Airsoft shoot 6 mm plastic BBs at speeds of around 450fps or lower, with an orange tip at the muzzle. Despite being non-lethal, they can still cause harm to soft tissues like the eyes, neck, or lips. Airsoft guns typically range in price from $50 to $150 and come in spring or gas-powered models. They are not meant for shooting at each other casually, but rather as tools to be used for training or sport. They are a safer alternative than practicing with a real firearm, especially on the early stages.

• The real thing: As children grow older and demonstrate responsible behavior, they can gradually transition to handling real firearms under strict supervision. This ensures a gradual and safe progression in their understanding and skills. For young kids or first-timers of all ages, I always suggest starting with a .22 rifle or handgun. These firearms are easier to handle and provide a good introduction to basic shooting techniques. If you're not ready to invest in purchasing a .22 firearm, you can consider renting one at a shooting range when you visit with your kids. This allows them to experience shooting without the commitment of owning a firearm.

Safety must always come first when children are being introduced to firearms. Implement all necessary precautions, especially close supervision.

Safety equipment and appropriate attire for the shooting range:

• Ensure that both eyes and ears are protected. When shooting at a closed range, provide extra ear protection for your kids by using foam plugs and earmuffs.
• Make sure they wear closed shoes and avoid loose or open-neck shirts.
• Have them wear a baseball cap and tie up long hair to prevent hot brass cases from entering the safety glasses or getting caught in the hair.

Before bringing your children or any novice to the shooting range, ensure they are familiar with safe firearm handling and range etiquette. Practice the session at home, emphasize that all firearms should only be handled and loaded at the shooting bench and the importance of keep the gun poiting down-range at all times, even when the firearm is at rest on the bench.

When dry-firing at home, utilize safety measures such as a barrel blocker or laser bullet to prevent any accidental loading of live rounds. Always store live ammunition separately and select a safe direction to aim the firearm.

Ultimately, possessing firearms is a way of life that should involve both children and spouses. Including the spouse, guarantees that both individuals are aligned in terms of firearm safety and responsible ownership. But also, children must be educated about firearm safety and responsibility by their parents, rather than external sources, to cultivate a healthy and profound reverence for firearms and prevent devastating accidents.

Now go! Have fun with your kids, be safe and happy shooting!

Resources:

Learn Gun Safety with Eddie Eagle and the Wing Team

When it happens to you: Kids and Guns

Talking to Kids about Guns and Firearms Safety

The Universal Firearm Safety Rules

Parents Talking with Their Kids About Gun Safety

The Gunslinging 10-Year-Old Blowing Up the Internet

How To Get Started Shooting By Tactical Mia