My two oldest boys (9 and 10) are ready for their first gun of their own. I've only ever shot a handful of .22s in my life...my Marlin bolt action and a couple of semi autos. These will be for killing targets and tree rats. I want something that will last them a long while but don't want to put too much $ into it either. What should be on my list to look at?
Are you looking for a youth model? Single shot, Bolt action or semi? IMO, get them a ruger 10/22, and cut the stocks down to fit each of them. They may fit a full size already, but I doubt it. As they grow, and the cut down stock is too short, a new factory take off stock can be had for little $, from one of the millions of people putting on an aftermarket stock. The other side of the fence is get them a bolt action or single shot, to slow them down, and teach them the fundamentals, and to save on your ammo supply. IMO, this is only a solution to a non-existent problem, because you don't HAVE to load up the magazines full each time.
Bolt action marlin, synthetic stock and stainless, I still have mine from my 10th Christmas and its among my favorite guns. Bolt action to slow them down for sure, males it easyJet to teach safety when they have to listen between shots. .. theta always more time for a 10/22. My second favorite gun.
They can shoot my full size pretty well....they are really big for their age. I might get a youth size for the next round of rug rats though.
X2 on the 10/22. Bought one for my 12-year-old last summer, and has been very forgiving and reliable.
Savage Arms The savage can be had for less than $250.00. I got mine for a little over $200 on sale. My initial expectations were low but boy was I supprised! Even with a relatively short (16") barrel, they will shoot flies at 20 yards...literally. Toss a decent scope on top and you have a lightweight, inexpensive, highly accurate rifle. It has been some of the best "gun money" I have spent. The rifles others have mentioned are also quality from what I know. Have you considered a combo gun like an over/under .22/.410? Great starter guns.
I've had good luck with Savage rimfire anything. Not much of a "looker" as far as rifles go, but they always seem to be accurate budget rifles. Keep them kids away from semi autos until they learn shot discipline.
Maybe take them to a shop and see what they like? Is it one new rifle for both, or do they each get one?
Want they like and what they need could be pretty far apart...who knows. After I get a narrower list of options I'll take them in and see what fits them the best.
