Last updated: November 2026
Looking for the best youth air rifle to introduce your child to the shooting sports? Teaching young shooters proper firearm safety and marksmanship fundamentals is a time-honored tradition that builds responsibility, discipline, and confidence. But choosing the right first airgun requires careful consideration of age, maturity, power levels, and safety features.
The right kids air rifle can spark a lifelong passion for the shooting sports while instilling critical safety habits from day one. The wrong choice—too powerful, too complicated, or without proper supervision—can lead to accidents or simply frustration that turns kids away from shooting altogether.
This comprehensive guide covers everything parents need to know about selecting a youth pellet gun or BB gun, including age-appropriate power levels, essential safety gear, supervision requirements, and our top five recommendations for young shooters in 2026.
Why Start Kids with Air Rifles?
Air rifles offer the perfect introduction to shooting sports for several compelling reasons:
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Lower Power, Lower Risk: Youth air rifles operate at safe velocities while still teaching real shooting fundamentals
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Affordable Practice: BBs and pellets cost a fraction of firearm ammunition, allowing extensive practice
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Backyard Friendly: With proper backstops, most youth airguns can be safely used at home
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Reduced Noise: No hearing protection needed for low-powered youth models
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No Recoil: Beginners can focus on fundamentals without flinching from kick
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Legal Accessibility: Air rifles are less regulated than firearms in most areas
Most importantly, air rifles teach the same safety rules, shooting positions, and marksmanship fundamentals that transfer directly to firearms. A child who masters a youth air rifle will have an enormous head start if they later pursue firearms shooting, hunting, or competitive shooting sports.
Age-Appropriate Power Levels: What’s Safe for Young Shooters?
One of the most critical decisions when choosing a kids air rifle is matching power level to age and maturity. More power isn’t better for beginners—in fact, it’s often worse.
Beginner Shooters (Ages 6-10): Under 350 FPS
For the youngest shooters, look for air rifles producing under 350 feet per second (FPS). At this velocity, BBs and pellets can sting and cause minor injury if safety rules are ignored, but the risk of serious injury is minimized. This power level is sufficient for hitting paper targets at 10-15 yards while keeping things safe for supervised backyard use.
Classic lever-action BB guns like the Daisy Red Ryder fall into this category. These rifles require less strength to cock, are lightweight enough for small frames, and produce enough velocity to be satisfying without being dangerous in the hands of a supervised beginner.
Intermediate Shooters (Ages 10-14): 350-600 FPS
Once a young shooter has demonstrated consistent safety awareness and responsible behavior, they can graduate to more capable airguns in the 350-600 FPS range. Multi-pump pneumatic rifles like the Crosman 760 Pumpmaster are ideal here—they allow parents to control power level by limiting pump strokes while the child learns.
This power range opens up pellet shooting, which offers better accuracy than BBs and prepares young shooters for more serious target work. Distances can extend to 20-25 yards with appropriate backstops.
Advanced Youth Shooters (Ages 14+): 600-800 FPS
Mature teenagers who have proven their safety consciousness can handle adult-power air rifles in the 600-800 FPS range. These rifles are suitable for small pest control, small game hunting where legal, and serious target shooting. However, they require the same respect as a firearm—proper eye protection, solid backstops, and continued adult supervision until the teen demonstrates complete competence.
Critical Safety Warning
Age is just a starting point. Maturity, responsibility, and demonstrated safe behavior matter far more than birthdays. Some 8-year-olds are ready for supervised shooting; some 14-year-olds aren’t. Never leave a child unsupervised with any air rifle until they have consistently demonstrated safe handling over an extended period. When in doubt, wait.
BB vs. Pellet: Which Is Better for Young Shooters?
When selecting a youth air rifle, you’ll choose between BB guns and pellet rifles. Both have their place in youth shooting.
BB Guns: The Classic Choice for Beginners
BBs are round steel or copper-coated projectiles, typically 4.5mm (.177 caliber). BB guns offer several advantages for absolute beginners:
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Extremely Low Cost: A container of 2,400 BBs costs just a few dollars
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High Capacity: Most BB guns hold 50-650 BBs, allowing extended shooting sessions
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Simplicity: Just pour BBs into the reservoir and start shooting
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Forgiving of Mistakes: Spilled BBs are easily recovered
BB Gun Drawbacks:
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Less accurate than pellets (round shape affects flight)
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Prone to ricochet off hard surfaces
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Cannot be used for hunting (inhumane at typical BB velocities)
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Limited upgrade path to serious shooting
Pellet Rifles: Better Accuracy and Progression
Pellets are diabolo-shaped (wasp-waisted) lead or alloy projectiles that offer superior accuracy and more versatility:
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Superior Accuracy: The diabolo shape stabilizes flight for much better precision
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No Ricochet: Soft lead pellets deform on impact rather than bouncing
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Hunting Capable: Higher-powered pellet rifles can humanely harvest small game
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Competitive Pathway: Olympic and professional shooting uses pellet rifles
Pellet Rifle Drawbacks:
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Higher cost per shot (though still very affordable)
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Single-shot loading on many models slows practice
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Pellets must be handled individually
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More attention to pellet selection required for accuracy
Our Recommendation
Start absolute beginners (ages 6-8) with a classic BB gun like the Daisy Red Ryder. The high capacity, low cost, and forgiving nature make it ideal for learning basic safety and having fun. Once safety habits are ingrained, transition to a pellet rifle around ages 9-10 for improved accuracy and a pathway to more serious shooting.
Essential Safety Gear for Youth Shooting
Before your child takes their first shot, ensure you have proper safety equipment in place. This isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Eye Protection: Non-Negotiable
Every person present during shooting must wear eye protection. This includes the shooter, supervisors, and any spectators. BBs can ricochet unpredictably, and even low-velocity impacts can cause serious eye injuries.
Look for shooting glasses or safety glasses rated ANSI Z87.1 or higher. Regular eyeglasses are not sufficient. Youth-sized shooting glasses are available from most sporting goods stores.
Proper Backstops: Containing Every Shot
A proper backstop stops projectiles completely and prevents ricochets. Options include:
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Commercial Pellet Traps: Metal traps with angled deflectors that direct BBs/pellets safely into a collection area
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Thick Cardboard Boxes: Multiple layers of cardboard can stop low-velocity BBs—replace frequently
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Rubber Mulch Box: A wooden frame filled with 8-12 inches of rubber mulch stops everything safely
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Hanging Blankets: Heavy blankets or canvas tarps can absorb BBs at low velocities
Never Use These as Backstops
Avoid hard surfaces that cause ricochets: concrete, brick, rocks, wood boards (BBs can skip off), or metal surfaces not designed for shooting. Even “soft” targets like fruit can allow dangerous ricochets. Always test your backstop before allowing children to shoot at it.
Safe Shooting Environment
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Clear Firing Line: Establish a defined shooting position that children cannot cross while shooting
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Safe Direction: Ensure the target area has no people, pets, or valuable property behind it
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Distance Control: Set appropriate distances—10-15 yards is plenty for youth shooting
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Adequate Lighting: Shoot only in well-lit conditions where targets and hazards are clearly visible
Teaching Firearm Safety: The Four Cardinal Rules
Before handing any youth air rifle to a child, teach and reinforce the four fundamental rules of firearm safety. These rules apply to all guns—air-powered or otherwise:
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Treat every gun as if it’s loaded: Even when you “know” it’s empty, handle it safely
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Never point the muzzle at anything you’re not willing to destroy: Always maintain safe muzzle direction
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Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot: Finger stays outside trigger guard until sights are on target
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Be sure of your target and what’s beyond it: Know where your shot will go if you miss or pass through
Quiz your child on these rules regularly. Make safety second nature before marksmanship. A child who automatically maintains safe muzzle direction and keeps their finger off the trigger has learned the most important lessons shooting sports can teach.
Best Youth Air Rifles for 2026
1. Daisy Red Ryder (~$45) – The Classic First BB Gun
The Daisy Red Ryder has introduced more kids to shooting than any other airgun in history. This lever-action BB gun has remained virtually unchanged since 1938 because the design simply works—and because generations of parents remember their own Red Ryder fondly.
At approximately 350 FPS, the Red Ryder hits the sweet spot for young beginners: powerful enough to be satisfying, safe enough for supervised backyard use. The lever-action cocking requires minimal strength, making it manageable for children as young as 6-7 with adult supervision.
The 650-BB reservoir means extended shooting sessions without constant reloading. The adjustable rear sight allows young shooters to learn sight alignment fundamentals, and the solid wood stock teaches proper shouldering technique.
Yes, it’s the same BB gun from “A Christmas Story.” And yes, you’ll still shoot your eye out if you ignore safety rules. That’s kind of the point—the Red Ryder teaches consequences in a relatively forgiving package.
Key Specifications:
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Caliber: .177 BB
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Velocity: ~350 FPS
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Capacity: 650 BBs
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Action: Lever-action
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Weight: 2.2 lbs
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Overall Length: 35.4 inches
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Recommended Age: 10+ (manufacturer), 6+ with supervision
Best For: First-time shooters ages 6-10, teaching basic safety and marksmanship fundamentals, nostalgic parents wanting to share a classic experience.
2. Crosman 760 Pumpmaster (~$40) – Best Multi-Pump for Beginners
The Crosman 760 Pumpmaster is the best-selling airgun in America for good reason. This versatile multi-pump pneumatic shoots both BBs and pellets, giving young shooters flexibility as their skills develop.
The genius of the 760 for youth training is the variable power system. Each pump stroke adds velocity—from about 350 FPS at 3 pumps to 700 FPS at 10 pumps. Parents can start children at low pump counts and gradually increase power as safety habits solidify. This built-in progression system makes the 760 grow with your child.
The ability to shoot pellets opens the door to improved accuracy. While the 760’s smoothbore barrel limits precision compared to rifled barrels, it’s accurate enough for tin cans and paper targets at typical youth distances. When your child is ready for more serious accuracy, you’ll know it’s time to upgrade—but many shooters stick with their 760 for years.
The 760 holds 18 BBs in its reservoir or accepts single-loaded pellets. The synthetic stock is lightweight and durable enough to survive the inevitable drops and dings of youth use.
Key Specifications:
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Caliber: .177 BB/Pellet
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Velocity: 350-700 FPS (variable, based on pumps)
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Capacity: 18 BBs or single-shot pellet
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Action: Multi-pump pneumatic
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Weight: 2.75 lbs
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Overall Length: 33.5 inches
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Recommended Age: 10+ (manufacturer)
Best For: Young shooters ready to step up from BB guns, families wanting variable power control, budget-conscious parents who want versatility.
3. Daisy Powerline 880 (~$50) – Best Budget All-Rounder
The Daisy Powerline 880 steps up from the 760 with a rifled steel barrel for improved accuracy with pellets. Like the Crosman 760, it’s a multi-pump pneumatic that shoots both BBs and pellets, but the rifled barrel makes it noticeably more accurate when shooting pellets.
Maximum velocity reaches approximately 800 FPS with pellets at 10 pumps—genuine power that can handle light pest control and prepares young shooters for adult air rifles. The variable pump power (3-10 pumps) still allows parents to limit power for younger or less experienced shooters.
The 880’s 50-shot BB reservoir is convenient for plinking sessions, while the single-shot pellet loading encourages the deliberate shooting habits that build accuracy skills. The included 4x scope introduces young shooters to optics fundamentals.
Build quality is solid for the price point. The synthetic stock handles abuse well, and the overall rifle feels more substantial than bare-bones entry-level options. At around $50, the Powerline 880 represents exceptional value for families wanting a capable youth rifle without spending $100+.
Key Specifications:
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Caliber: .177 BB/Pellet
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Velocity: Up to 800 FPS (pellets), 750 FPS (BBs)
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Capacity: 50 BBs or single-shot pellet
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Action: Multi-pump pneumatic
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Barrel: Rifled steel
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Weight: 3.1 lbs
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Overall Length: 37.5 inches
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Included: 4x15 scope
Best For: Intermediate youth shooters ready for improved accuracy, families wanting a capable rifle at a budget price, young shooters interested in scope use.
4. Crosman 1077 (~$80) – Best Semi-Auto for Fun
The Crosman 1077 brings something the other youth rifles can’t match: semi-automatic fire. Powered by 12-gram CO2 cartridges, the 1077 lets young shooters focus purely on aiming and trigger control without cocking between shots. For pure shooting enjoyment, it’s hard to beat.
At approximately 625 FPS, the 1077 sits in the intermediate power range—enough for satisfying shooting, not enough to cause serious harm with proper safety measures. The 12-shot rotary clip means kids can practice rapid target acquisition without constant reloading.
The semi-automatic action is remarkably quiet, making the 1077 excellent for backyard use where noise is a concern. The light weight (3.7 lbs) and compact length suit smaller shooters well, though older youth and adults enjoy it equally.
CO2 operation does add ongoing cost—each cartridge provides approximately 50-60 shots. For high-volume practice, this adds up faster than pump guns. However, the instant shooting without pumping often keeps kids more engaged, making the investment worthwhile for maintaining interest.
Key Specifications:
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Caliber: .177 pellet
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Velocity: ~625 FPS
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Capacity: 12-shot rotary clip
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Action: Semi-automatic (CO2)
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Power Source: 12-gram CO2 cartridge
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Weight: 3.7 lbs
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Overall Length: 36.5 inches
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Shots per CO2: ~50-60
Best For: Young shooters who get frustrated with pumping, families wanting maximum fun factor, introducing shooting to kids who need instant gratification to stay engaged.
5. Ruger Explorer (~$100) – Best Upgrade Youth Rifle
The Ruger Explorer bridges the gap between youth airguns and full-power adult rifles. This single-stroke pneumatic delivers approximately 650 FPS with a remarkably easy cocking effort—perfect for older youth and teens ready for more serious shooting.
The single-stroke pneumatic action is inherently consistent, delivering the same velocity shot after shot without variable pump counts. This consistency helps young shooters develop precision skills, as they can focus on technique rather than wondering if they pumped the same number of times.
Build quality steps up noticeably from budget options. The fiber optic front sight and adjustable rear sight are genuinely usable. The automatic safety engages when the rifle is cocked, reinforcing safe handling habits. The forearm has a thumbhole rest that naturally positions the supporting hand correctly.
At around $100, the Explorer costs more than the budget options on this list, but it feels like a “real” air rifle rather than a toy. For young shooters who have outgrown their Red Ryder and demonstrate consistent safety consciousness, the Ruger Explorer is an excellent next step.
Key Specifications:
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Caliber: .177 pellet
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Velocity: ~650 FPS
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Capacity: Single shot
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Action: Single-stroke pneumatic
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Barrel: Rifled
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Weight: 4.0 lbs
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Overall Length: 37.0 inches
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Sights: Fiber optic front, adjustable rear
Best For: Older youth (12+) ready for more capable equipment, teens transitioning toward adult air rifles, young shooters who have demonstrated consistent safety habits.
Youth Air Rifle Comparison Table
| Model | Ammo Type | Velocity | Best Ages | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daisy Red Ryder | BB | 350 FPS | 6-10 | ~$45 | Amazon |
| Crosman 760 Pumpmaster | BB/Pellet | 350-700 FPS | 8-12 | ~$40 | Amazon |
| Daisy Powerline 880 | BB/Pellet | Up to 800 FPS | 10-14 | ~$50 | Amazon |
| Crosman 1077 | Pellet | 625 FPS | 10-14 | ~$80 | Amazon |
| Ruger Explorer | Pellet | 650 FPS | 12-16 | ~$100 | Amazon |
The Progression Path: Growing with Your Young Shooter
The best approach to youth shooting involves planned progression as skills and maturity develop. Here’s a recommended pathway:
Stage 1: Foundation (Ages 6-8)
Start with a low-powered BB gun like the Daisy Red Ryder. Focus entirely on safety rules—proper muzzle direction, finger off trigger, eye protection. Make safety habits automatic before worrying about accuracy.
Stage 2: Development (Ages 8-10)
Graduate to a multi-pump like the Crosman 760. Begin with 3-4 pumps and gradually increase as safety awareness solidifies. Introduce pellet shooting for improved accuracy. Start teaching proper shooting positions.
Stage 3: Intermediate (Ages 10-14)
Move to more capable options like the Daisy Powerline 880 or Crosman 1077. Focus on accuracy fundamentals, introduce scope use, and consider informal competition with paper targets. Begin discussing hunting ethics if relevant.
Stage 4: Advanced Youth (Ages 14+)
Transition to adult-style air rifles like the Ruger Explorer or entry-level break barrels. The young shooter should now demonstrate complete safety independence, though supervision should continue until you’re confident in their judgment.
Supervision Requirements: How Much Is Enough?
The single most important factor in youth air rifle safety is appropriate supervision. Here are guidelines:
Direct Supervision (Beginners)
Adult stays within arm’s reach at all times. Adult controls ammunition access and directly observes every shot. This applies to all new shooters regardless of age until safety habits are absolutely consistent.
Close Supervision (Intermediate)
Adult remains in the immediate area, observing shooting but not necessarily within arm’s reach. Young shooter loads and fires independently but adult monitors for safety violations. Applies once basic safety is second nature.
General Supervision (Advanced)
Adult is on the property and checks in regularly but young shooter may practice independently. Only appropriate for mature teens who have demonstrated complete safety consciousness over extended time. Adult still controls ammunition storage.
Trust But Verify
Even with trusted young shooters, periodically observe their shooting unannounced. Bad habits can develop without immediate consequences. A quick check ensures safety standards remain high and gives opportunities for gentle correction before problems become ingrained.
Final Recommendations
Best First BB Gun: Daisy Red Ryder
For absolute beginners ages 6-10, the classic Red Ryder remains the gold standard. Low power, high capacity, and generations of proven kid-friendly design make it the perfect introduction to shooting sports.
Best Value Youth Air Rifle: Crosman 760 Pumpmaster
At around $40, the versatile 760 offers BB and pellet capability with variable power control. The ability to start at low power and increase as skills develop makes it grow with your child.
Best for Pure Fun: Crosman 1077
When maintaining interest matters most, the semi-automatic 1077’s instant shooting without pumping keeps kids engaged. The 12-shot clip and rapid fire capability make every range session exciting.
Related Guides on PelletGuns101
Continue your air rifle research with these related guides:
Teaching a child to shoot is one of the most rewarding experiences a parent can share. Choose the right youth air rifle, prioritize safety above all else, and you’ll create memories—and skills—that last a lifetime. Happy shooting!
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