Based on NICS checks, the industry has seen a rise of 16 to 20 millions gun owners in the past two years. It’s almost as if all the people of Michigan (10 million) and Indiana (7 millions) became gun owners for the first time. There were approximately 45 million guns sold between 2020 and 2021, with most of those guns going through dealers. Private sales are not included here. What Makes a Youth Rifle Special?
There are no specific criteria for youth guns. Some are simple single shots while others are short-stocked versions standard products. There is no single answer. It all depends on what type of training, hunting, or other end use a youngster has for a rifle. A good youth gun will use iron sights. What works for one child may not work for another. This is something I have debated with my peers for some time. Some think it is a waste to time because iron sights are so common in today’s world. Iron sights on youth rifles are not to make life easier for children. It’s the exact opposite. They teach children to be patient and deliberate. They also limit the distance children can attempt shots at, which helps build confidence at close range. I believe 50 yards is the ideal distance to start with a youth rifle rimfire. Learning the basics of marksmanship at close range will help new shooters better appreciate and master the skill. It’s not a five-rounder magazine, but there’s a single-shot version that can be used for training and feeding tiny.22 Shorts. Bolt actions are also more convenient for youth guns. They’re easier to load and less likely to make mistakes. I don’t advocate semiauto rimfires. I am just aware of the attention spans of children in training settings and the habits they have. Bolt actions are easier to empty and show off, and there is less chance of accidental chambering or discharge.
It may surprise you to learn that my favorite rifle, and certainly one of my most lethal in terms game bagged, is a CZ457 Scout. This gun is youth-sized and has a short stock and a 16-inch barrel. It has iron sights and an iron muzzle. These are two features that I love for the barnyard. It can take suppressors easily and is very quiet when shooting a.22 Short. I take this gun into the woods with me, so I also installed a set sling studs. They don’t come with the rifle. I’m not small, but I’m also not a bear. The stock is perfect for me because I can reach it even when covered in thick clothing. It’s difficult to go too short with a rifle. The CZ Scout’s stock is longer than an AR carbine stock that has been fully collapsed. Many guys larger than me shoot their carbines completely collapsed. Shotguns are more concerned about length of pull than rifles. Most of my rifles have a lower than average LOP. Most precision rifles I own are about 12 inches in length. My ideal LOP, as measured for my arms, is 14 inches. A longer LOP is a hindrance in most settings. This is why I prefer “youth” models. A shorter pull length is better. A short stock is better for general hunting. The gun comes with a zero-round flush fit magazine that allows for single-shot feeding. This feature is great for single-loading 22 shorts. There are five-round repeater magazines available. I prefer these to the 10-round version because they are compact and can be carried one-handed by grasping the receiver while walking. If the CZ is not your thing, I have compiled my recommendations for youth-sized rimfires. These range from starter guns to high-level competitors.
01. Single-Shot Savage Rascal
This could very well be the most popular youth bolt gun. There are many options for the Rascal, including target versions and tactical variants. These guns are safe and easy to use, and have been used by many kids to introduce them to shooting sports. They are small and lightweight, so they are very useful and valuable. They are also very popular with adults. I know of a few trappers who take these ultra-light, brightly coloured rifles along to check their lines. MSRP: $19902. Savage MKII FVT Repeater
Savage makes an appearance again on this list due to how useful this model is as a training tool. The barrel is heavy and sturdily constructed. The highly adjustable sights can be adjusted to allow shooters to zero in on competitions. These guns are common at Project Appleseed events, and may be the most accurate.22LR rifles available today. MSRP: $50903. KSA Mosin Nagant M91/30 Single-Shot
You are a great comrade! The comically small single-shot Mosin Mosin copy was first seen at SHOT Show a few years ago. It’s a great idea, especially for children who are interested in historical guns. I was fascinated by World War II history from a young age and would have pleaded for one under the Christmas tree. MSRP: $419
04. Mossberg International 802 Plinkster Repeater
The classic bolt action Mossberg is not flashy but it does have all the features you need. The Plinkster, which is the least obvious gun on this list should last a lifetime. It’s durable and rugged enough to last a lifetime. It’s a great deal for the price. MSRP: $20405. Henry Lever Action Youth Repeater
This was my first.22 rifle as a child. It was a gift from my dad, who loved Westerns. I bought it for my dad. Unfortunately, the rifle was sold. However, I may still get another one (I realized how much it meant to me in writing this article). The action is smooth and accurate. It’s easily comparable to bolt actions of similar size and cost. This rifle is a great choice. It’s a great bridge between accuracy, capacity, and quick follow-up shots. MSRP: $39706. Browning T-Bolt Target Repeater
The T-Bolt, a classic design, is fast and accurate. This rifle is a great choice for an older child. It can be used as a first small game rifle and has the accuracy to reach 100 yards. A scope is essential for this rifle. A compact Leupold in the 3-9x range can make your child a deadly hunter on rabbits and coyotes. MSRP: $71907. Anschutz 1710 XLR HB Repeater
The Anschutz 1710 XLR HB is a more expensive and feature-rich model. The Anschutz 1710 XLR HB is a precision rifle and not just a “precision training” model. It is also accurate for long-range NRL sports. These long-range rimfire rimfire sports that extend to 500 yards and further are just plain fun. I would love to start. MSRP: $2,69508. Walther KK500M Expert 690mm Single Shot
These guns were first seen at Camp Perry as a child. I was shocked that they would charge so much for a single shot.22! These are precision machines that can be adjusted for any shooter, in any position. I was unable to understand the concept at the time. This may seem like a lot of money to an older child or teenager. But, when you consider the cost of beauty pageants, football, and 4H, it’s a small price to pay. I’d rather take the plunge once and get my children the best Olympic-style rifle. You can also buy it yourself. MSRP: $6,000 (approximate)09. Ruger Precision Rimfire Repeater
The Ruger Precision Rimfire is a fraction of what the Anschutz costs, and offers a lot of features for the beginner long-range shooter. These guns are great for the price. I have shot them extensively. Although the accuracy is not as good as other dedicated precision rimfires this gun is still a great one to use for training. If your child moves to centerfire rifles, the ergonomics of this target pack will be almost identical to Ruger’s full-size Ruger Precision Rifle. MSRP: $579Editor’s Note: This article originally appeared on Gun Digest the Magazine’s January 2022 issue. Next Step: Download your Storm Tactical Printable Target Package62 Printable MOA Targets with Drills – Rifle range in YARDSThis amazing target pack comes from Storm Tactical and contains62 printable targets for rifle and handgun range usage. Target grids and bullseye sizes can be found in MOA. Get Free Targets
