As much as I LOVE my stable of Smith & Wesson K frame 22's of various models and ages, I think a 6.5 inch or 5.5 inch barrel Ruger Single-Six is a perfect revolver for a young shooter. The gate loading design slows the young shooter down a bit and helps them concentrate. The Ruger is also a pretty robust gun that can handle being shall we say "fumbled" better than any swing-out cylinder S&W. Accuracy wise, with ammo they like, the Single-Sixes are normally very accurate.

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