by markej4801 » Tue Dec 20, 2011 8:24 am
@the goon: I'm not exactly sure just what you are after here, but I will try to address this question to the best of my limited ability. A 14 year old, not familiar with weapons might be best led into the artform through a group such as the Boy Scouts of America. They offer many merit badges, including shooting skills, which would help him become proficient with firearms. The scouts can give him a group of friends to work with and to feed responsibility to him as well.
As to which weapon to start with, I would think a .22LR rifle would be a good first gun. There are many out there from various brands. This will take a bit of research on your/his part, but that is part of the fun, so take your time. My personal preference is the venerable Ruger 10/22. There is a huge following for the 10/22. It is an inexpensive weapon, one that can be obtained in a vast number of stores, including many WalMarts. If you are insisting on starting with a handgun, there are many that will fill that bill. Most manufacturers sport at least one model and several have multiple variations of their offerings. You have a lot of research ahead of you, so enjoy the journey!