I grew up within 10 miles of downtown Boston. My Dad didn' t hunt, but My Granddad and Uncle did. I was allowed to hunt squirrels and rabbits with a Sheridan Blue Streak (even alone) at age 11. By 13 the folks let me go deer hunting with my Uncle, but bow only. Massachusetts gun laws are very strict, as were my folks. By 16, it was grouse and waterfowl with shotgun, but still only bow for deer. (cuz I got pretty good at it and enjoyed it a great deal.) After 10 more years treading the mountains of Vermont, Maine and N.H. I packed up and headed West to Colorado on my own. The rest has been a very fortunate history in the Rockies. I now have 9 year old twin boys, and they are just maturing enough to handle their own small bows (target only) They' ve tried the.22 rifle, a 12 ga and even the 7mm Mag on targets. For now, the bows are just fine, and they like to come along for Blue Grouse and Rabbit outtings. (They talk too much to go with Dad after deer and Elk) I think when a kid shows interest and maturity enough to learn woodcraft and foremost, SAFETY, they should be allowed to participate in some capacity. Hunting is good for kids who choose to persue it. As adults, we owe it to all of you to ensure that you get that chance.