Planning A Youth Hunt With Your Child? Pro Tips For Maximum Enjoyment
Posted on: 30 December 2017
Planning the first youth hunt with a child or grandchild is a memorable time for parents and grandparents. In states with fall hunting seasons for whitetail deer or other large game animals, youth hunts are typically scheduled shortly before the adult firearms season begins.
While dates and requirements may be different in each state, most set aside these days as a time when children can be introduced to the sport of hunting while accompanied by a qualifying adult. In most states, children who meet the age requirements for a youth hunt will not need to purchase a hunting license. If you are planning a youth hunt with your child or grandchild and want them to get the most from the experience, the following tips can help.
Introduce them to firearms well before the date of the youth hunt
Although most children are naturally curious about firearms, they may feel a bit frightened of them at first. To encourage safe gun-handling habits and become more comfortable around them, start by spending time helping them learn how a gun works. This is most easily accomplished by taking them on several outings to a safe shooting range or area where they can target practice with a small caliber, light weight gun.
During each session, be sure to take time to help them learn about safety handling techniques, as well as how to hold, aim, and shoot the gun effectively. In addition, introduce them to the use of hearing and eye protection and discuss why they are necessary. In addition to target practice outings, spend some additional time helping them learn how how to safely clean and maintain a firearm.
Outfit them with a firearm that will be comfortable for them to carry and shoot
Once your child or grandchild has learned how to safely handle, shoot, and care for a small caliber firearm, it is a good idea to consider outfitting them with a more powerful firearm that will be suitable for use during the youth hunt for deer or other large animals. When choosing the right gun for them, remember to take their current size into account. Pre-teens and younger children will be more comfortable using a firearm with a shorter overall length than an adult-sized model.
The best way to make sure that any firearm you purchase for them to use will properly fit their current body and arm length is to take them with you when shopping. Take time to discuss the reason for the purchase with the firearms dealer and ask them to help you select the best options for your child or grandchild. With proper training and the right firearm, your child or grandchild will be more likely to enjoy a successful youth hunt and a lifelong interest in hunting. Contact a company, like First Southern Service, for more help.
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