My son is 11 now, and although he is quite accomplished at hunting for his age, I have not started him with a shotgun yet, due to his size.

I have a dear friend who owns a large shooting complex, and he is heavily involved with 4H and Boy Scouts using his facility. He recommended waiting until a child weighs at least 80 pounds, otherwise the recoil from even a lightly loaded 20 gauge gas operated automatic can be problematic.

The last thing I want to do is put him off.

I have noticed, also, that very good hearing protection is a must. Childrens' hearing is very sensitive. I have my son wear earplugs inside his earmuffs when practicing, and he always puts at least earmuffs on before shooting any game (at his insistence).