Hi guys. I have a couple questions.

oneguy

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Hi everyone.

My son is becoming more and more interested in firearms. He's 13.


I'm thinking an air rifle is a good starting point.

In doing research for a decent one, I've noticed there are many kinds. Can someone please explain the differences? I'm not interested in one that uses C02.

Second question. Is there a type that is better for a beginner?

Thanks guys.
 
Ruger 22 lr is a good start. Ben in Canada has a very good recommandation. My daughters love it. On the other hand, an air rifle can be used in a garage if you set it up right, or outside in a yard. We have plenty of space and woods. I shoot arrows with my kids and an air rifle. There are break action rifles, pump action rifles and pneumatic. I recommend break action with iron sights with the capability for a scope. Iron sights are perfect for beginners.

Enjoy.
 
Ruger Airhawk is a good springer, it's a Chinese copy of the Diana 34, a pretty good one at that.
It may be a bit big for him, they are a good fit for adults. They are in the $100-150 range and usually comes with a scope.
 
Ruger 10 22.

sorry, saw this on the main page, didn't notice you had it specifically in the air rifle sub.
Haha...

No problem Ben. When he is ready for a real firearm. The 10/22 is a top contender.

10/22 is expensive and has only average accuracy at best unless you upgrade it (read: more $$$.) Also, semi-autos as a starting rifle can have a bad influence on shot placement if they don't have good discipline. Savage MkII is simple, inexpensive, and far more accurate in the rimfire world.

As for air rifles, maybe take a visit to the LGS or CT and have him try holding a few of the rifles and see what fits and he thinks feels good in hand then read reviews and stats on the ones he likes to make a choice.
 
Good Dad for asking (biased on this end!)

I have a few air rifles here, and I prefer Springers over other types. That said, one of my Son's l'il friends can's #### most of our collection. He can pump an 'ol Crossman.

To pick a good rifle, take a good look at the shooter. Size, and ease of use can make a difference to enjoyment. Also consider the type of shooting you'll do. With a huge range of different gems, pick one that best suits your shooting needs. I have a basement range, but couldn't imagine using a 1000fps rifle in it. These do make for fun, affordable, safe shooting fun.

Anecdotal add-on. I still have my first airgun my Dad bought me, and it'll be m'boy's one day. Nothing fancy (Chinese Springer from CT 30+years ago), but still chock-full of memories.
 
My son is a good sized 13yr old. We will mostly be using it at the range I belong to.

They have an air gun league that shoots every Sunday morning.

Indoor 50yd range.
 
Slavia 630/631 has a great barrel and iron sights.

But it's a heavy gun if he's going to use it standing.

If something more serious and easier to shoot at 50 yards: some PCP with olympic sights.
 
My first airgun was a Gamo Camo Rocket.
Not CO2, instead its break single shot.
But its comfortable and ambidextrous. Capable of 1300fps with the really light grain .177s

Quite accurate and comes with a fixed 4x scope. Good for varmints and small game too should you need it when he's beyond targets
 
I ended up picking up a pair of Stoeger X5 rifles. Out of the 4 or so he handled, he liked it the best. Most likely heading to the range tomorrow morning to try them out.
 
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