12 Year Old Options...

lakngolf

Well-Known Member
I have a grandson who is itching to try bow hunting. Problem is getting him outfitted and finding time and location in the city to become razor sharp. He can practice unlimited at my house in the country but I am not sure about him slinging arrows in the neighborhood!
I have an idea, and need some opinions!
He is quite good with a rifle scope. What if
(1) I purchase a mid-range crossbow
(2) I learn how to use it
(3) Teach him how to shoot it
(4) We go bow hunting together....I cock the bow (and release if needed) and Jack does the shooting

What say you? (Realizing even I have never had a crossbow in my hand)
 
Lak it’s just like a short range rifle so if he can shoot a gun he can shoot a crossbow...I got 1 when I tore my rotator cuff and it has killed everything I have shot it at...
 
I intentionally bought a X-bow just to get my kids out in archery season! You don't have to worry about flinching, because many kick like a 22. Many have a scope, that most kids prefer and as long as you stick to reasonable distances you can essentially you one point of aim and be done with it. Most also allow for the use of a rest, so weight can be less of an issue (because they are sort of awkward). You also don't have to worry about the weapon fitting him as he grows. The trick is going to be 2 fold for him..... #1 - will he have the strength to cock it to practice on his own? #2 - will he have the strength to pull the bolts out of the target (you WILL need a special X-bow target - don't ask how I know).
 
I started my boys shooting 10yds in the basement (bow and a pellet rifle. Does he have that much room?
 
Lak My boys were slinging arrows when they were 12 yrs old. Back then they didn’t make great youth compound bows but they sure do today. I wouldn’t hesitate to get him a good ladies or youth model compound and let him start slinging arrows, even if it’s just at your place. Today’s equipment has em hitting bullseye at 15 yds within no time.
 
Lak My boys were slinging arrows when they were 12 yrs old. Back then they didn’t make great youth compound bows but they sure do today. I wouldn’t hesitate to get him a good ladies or youth model compound and let him start slinging arrows, even if it’s just at your place. Today’s equipment has em hitting bullseye at 15 yds within no time.
This is what I would recommend as well. Had to get Eli a left handed compound.

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A lot of good info given already. There are pros and cons to both. Since your strength is with a bow, I would stay with that, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy teaching him how to use it. The learning curve may be a little steeper for him but the reward will be worth it IMO. There are a lot of good youth bows out there to choose from that can be adjusted to fit him as he grows through his teens draw length and weight wise. You may be able to pick up a slightly used one for a decent price. Good luck!!!


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I think you could do that Lak, or as said buy a compound. We used to shoot a lot just in the garage because of the weather. My son stalked alone shooting his first deer/buck with his compound at the age of 12. He did forget which way it ran in his excitement lol but luckily it only ran 50 yds and we found it. Good luck.
 
My daughters been shooting a bow since the age of three. At 9, she’s still not pulling enough to hunt with but your 12 year old would be at least close. 3D tournaments are a great way to start them. Most cities have archery clubs.


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I wrote a article something like this one. My boy is also 12 and practice makes perfect. If you have the room start out at 10 yards. He will catch on faster than you think. Once he is good and groups go 15 yards then 20yards. The new bows out are awesome. Take time with him to learn distance like 10 and 20 yards. Crossbow is a easy fix but there is just something about shooting a compound bow I think he will like better. I don’t think it will take near the time you are thinking until he gets good at shooting. The time together is also important. You will see it’s great times.
 
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