Originally Posted by
vabyrd
Amen to that. It always seems that fellas like to give their kid or wife the gun that requires more skill to be successful with. We need $600 scopes and 30-06's, but spouses only need a $50 job and a 243. I actually caught myself doing that with my wife, then decided to let her start with reduced power ammo on my gun until she is comfortable shooting, them to full power loads. If she likes it, then she can pick what she wants.
But hats off to your gal for wanting to hunt, few do. Its good to do everything not to discourage her.
+2
Great points. I'm as reluctant to spend a lot of money on my wife's gear as the next guy, primarily thinking of what'll happen if she doesn't enjoy the experience. But, after spending $50 on boots for her a couple years ago, she's wearing nearly the same $200 boot I wear now, and I don't hear any complaints about the cold or sore feet anymore. Same goes for firearms. Thankfully, I chose to spend twice what I could have on her shotgun, but it fits her better, she knows she's handling a quality firearm at least on par with what I'd use. Better yet, she handles it safely and handles it well.
If you're trying to get a spouse, significant other, or a youngster into hunting, the worst thing you can do is make them feel like their skills and experience aren't worth the extra time it takes for you to teach them, or the money it takes to properly and thoughtfully equip them for the hunt.