Want to introduce son to competitive shooting

[crcsen]

Hi,
On 11/30, my son (12) took his first lesson in firearms (handgun). I had an instructor from one of the local ranges here in Raleigh run him through a basic handling and shooting session. He tried both a Glock 44 (?) and Ruger SR22. Liked the Ruger, not the Glock. Trigger issues for him. Did pretty good for a first timer. Even ran a few time targets. No misses out to 10 yards.

I took him with me when I first tested the 4506-1 I just purchased, and rented him another SR22 to practice. He shot fairly consistent groups, high and to the right, from 5 yards to 25 yards. Never off target.

Today, we went to the range and for the first time he fired a 9MM, from a P226. I just wanted him to get a feel for a full size pistol and a 9mm. Surprising me was his aiming. He hit everything he was aiming for. I have attached a photo of the first session.

He has expressed an interest in shooting at something other than paper, so he watched a few videos of kids his age shooting steel challenge. I know nothing of this, as I have not done any training this style since my Navy days.

So, my questions are:
How to introduce him to this sport?
Is there anyone/anyplace near Raleigh, NC where I should start?

Thank you,

Charlie

 

[Protocall_Design]

Steel Challenge is fun for 12 year olds of all ages. It's popular around here, with about 120 shooters at the local monthly match. It's not a run and gun game, so safe gun handling is easier, and the older kids (past retirement age) that can't move as fast as they used to, can still compete. It's kind of like a real life video game for the ones that do that a lot, and some of them are really good. Also, it teaches you to use the sights and aim, at whatever your current speed is. A good shooting skill builder. Look on Practiscore.com to find matches in your area.

 

[Borderboss]

I agree that Steel Challenge is a great way to introduce a young person to competitive shooting. Kids like to shoot fast, and that's what SC is all about. There is a rimfire version and a center fire version, so he can start with one and move to the other if/when he wants.

Check out the Steel Challenge Shooting Association HERE.

Check out the Rimfire Challenge Shooting Association HERE.

Both sites will have information about clubs or matches in your area.

 

[6string]

Hi,
Great that your son has an interest in shooting sports.
I would like to respectfully make an alternative suggestion.
Why not try to find an NRA or CMP affiliated youth program at a local club?
Both these organizations have devoted tremendous amounts of time, money and effort to promoting competitive youth programs based on safety training, shooting fundamentals, and solid marksmanship skills.
I have personally participated in, and coached for, such programs. They do more for building a solid foundation in essential skills than anything else.
These programs are very well designed, with an eye towards both long term goals and immediate results. Whether it's parents looking for a safe introduction to shooting sports, to someone looking for long range goals such as a marksmanship based future in the service or a place on the Olympic team, the best bet is getting the fundamentals down in an organized setting. Many of these shooting disciplines are also NCAA events and it's quite possible to earn a full scholarship to college or university.
In any case, once the fundamentals are learned, it's easy to branch into other disciplines with success. Conversely, far too many people who start off with "action" type events never really get their act together fundamental-wise.
If you go to the NRA or CMP websites, you can use their search tools to see what's available in your area. It can't hurt to at least investigate the options.

Best wishes for your son and his future success,

Jim

 

[Dave from Pa]

Steel Challenge has a youth class and aggressively recruits juniors as does IDPA and other disciplines.My suggestion is to find a match and go and observe first, then you can decide if that particular discipline is something that would be of interest.Be forewarned, when a Dad or Mom shows up at almost any shooting discipline I have participated in with a willing junior plan on taking root since they usually don`t let you leave.An internet /YouTube search should give you enough to get started.Searching out local clubs for information is also a good source.Both of my sons attended the national matches at Camp Perry with me for years ,they started Competitive shooting at the same age as your son both ending as Himasters and one a Distinguished Rifleman.Have fun and enjoy the time together.Let him progress at his own pace and be supportative. It helps if you shoot together, lots to talk about on the way home. Good luck, since you have the interest your off to a good start.

 

[Rodan]

I'm with 6string.

Start with bullseye to build the foundations of marksmanship that will facilitate everything else down the road. There's plenty of time for fast & furious games after he masters the fundamentals.

 

[H Richard]

I'm another that recommend a basis in Bullseye as the foundation to accurate shooting that will hold over into all other shooting games. Sight picture, breath control, trigger press, follow through. It makes no difference what the target is, if you want to hit it you need good foundation in the basics. Then move on to other games and you will appreciate the time spent learning the basics.

 

[Tanners Owner]

Another option is ASI( Action shooting Int’l) - it’s essentially an introductory action shooting game that allows for 22 cal guns and does not require holsters and other kit. Shot a match today, had a blast, shooting my 617.

I enjoy the crowd I’m with shooting ASI and many are cross overs from IDPA/ USPSA who are looking for another opportunity to shoot. I enjoy that I can shoot guns that are either not competitive in IDPA or are not w/in the divisions - such as my 617.

 

[6string]

Here's a link that shows a little bit about what it takes to make it to the Junior Olympics.

Focused on the target: Pistol-Training for a medal at #YOG2018 | Youth Olympic Games - YouTube

This is a serious yet attainable goal. Several juniors I have coached made it to the Nationals at Pocatello, ID, and were invited to continue onwards. Any young person who goes that far can pretty much write their own ticket for academic scholarship, etc.

By the way, the pistol used by that talented young lady is the Pardini K12. It weighs just under one kilo and has a nice trigger pull of 500 grams.

 

[Borderboss]

Steel Challenge has a youth class and aggressively recruits juniors as does IDPA and other disciplines.My suggestion is to find a match and go and observe first, then you can decide if that particular discipline is something that would be of interest.Be forewarned, when a Dad or Mom shows up at almost any shooting discipline I have participated in with a willing junior plan on taking root since they usually don`t let you leave.

Wait, what? They're not going to hold you hostage at the match if you're there to observe. That's not going to happen.

I also don't agree with getting a kid involved in bullseye-type competition. If the kid is looking for something more interesting than going to the range to punch paper, shooting bullseye will be a snoozer for him/her. Action shooting games will keep their interest.

 

[ISCS Yoda]

Well, get a couple of different guns in his hands and ensure that he has top notch gun handling skills. That includes pistols and revolvers.

I'm partial to cowboy action shooting but that means he has to be able to skillfully handle single action revolvers, lever action rifles, and side by side shotguns. But it's a whale of a good time!

 

[6string]

Here's the link to the CMP youth programs:

Youth - Civilian Marksmanship Program

If you look, you'll see the range of offerings (rifle, pistol, shotgun, everything from airgun to high power), and the extent to which they have really thought this through.

There's also a club finder link on that page. Enter your location and you'll find the range of offerings in your area.

These programs really engage young people and gets them involved. They're on the line firing, they have to challenge themselves, and it helps build their character and critical thinking. I can guarantee they won't be bored!

 

[BloodyThumb]

First off, please pass my congratulations on to the young man on that group!

I have to go with 6string and the others who have said the same. Start with the basics there and explore the other disciplines. Ya don't have to pick just one, but the basics are essential in them all.