Starting Them Right

posted on January 28, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
rackley2015_fs.jpg

Recently, I started my oldest child down the path of firearms enlightenment. Since she is only 3 years old, some would say I’m starting her a little early, but she has asked about the object on Daddy’s hip and one day told me to “strap on my legs,” referring to my ankle holster, as we were leaving the house.

To start the conversation, I asked if she understood that Daddy carried a handgun. She said yes and pointed toward my hip. I then asked her if she was curious about Daddy’s gun and would like to learn more. She replied in the affirmative to both questions. All that, in my mind, means she’s ready to start learning.

She watched as I carefully removed my Kimber from the Milt Sparks holster where it resides, ejected the magazine and removed the .45 caliber round from the chamber, and allowed her to view the handgun.

She was happy to be sharing this moment with Daddy, and it made a good segue to begin her training of what to do if she ever finds an unsecured firearm. The concept is as simple as stop, drop and roll, and is shared with youngsters through the Eddie Eagle GunSafe Program. If you see a gun: Stop! Don’t touch. Leave the area. Tell an adult.

I discussed the concept multiple times, and had her repeat it back to me each time. This is just the beginning of the process, which I will build upon with regular lessons. Part of it is to control the curiosity for which children are well known by providing safe firearm handling instruction. I also told her to never mention Daddy’s gun in public, as I don’t want others realizing that I’m carrying. She seemed to understand, but I’m not stopping with a single lesson. This will be a long-term effort to teach her how to safely handle and use firearms, as well as the importance of the Second Amendment. A week later, she was still able to tell me what she is supposed to do if she encounters a gun. I’d say that is progress.

Latest

Weatherby 307 New Models F
Weatherby 307 New Models F

New For 2025: Weatherby Model 307 Range XP 2.0 & Alpine ST Rifles

Weatherby's Model 307 bolt-action rifle opens up a world of aftermarket components to consumers, thanks to its Model 700 receiver footprint, and the company now has two new models for hunters and sport shooters.

Preview: Thunderbolt To The Rebels | The United States Sharpshooters In The Civil War

Author Darin Wipperman provides a tantalizing glimpse into the world of Berdan’s sharpshooters during the American Civil War.

Gun Of The Week: Rock River Arms LAR-22 Tactical Carbine

This week, we're on the range with the Rock River Arms LAR-22 Tactical Carbine, a rimfire variant of the AR-15 that's designed for reliability and gives enthusiasts a way to shoot affordably.

The Armed Citizen® July 11, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Japanese Last-Ditch Small Arms Of World War II

The crude assortment of fighting tools used by the Japanese during World War II give clues of an unprepared and unmatched last-ditch fight that ultimately lead to Allied victory.

Federal Ammunition Awards 2025 Tom Knapp Memorial Scholarships

Federal Ammunition recently awarded the 2025 Tom Knapp Memorial Scholarships to two 4-H shooting sports teen ambassadors.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.