Originally Posted by
26 Inf
Away from the LE training ranges, I start new shooters on .22. It is fairly inexpensive, but most importantly reduces the likelihood on developing recoil/muzzle blast aversion.
As a newly married 19 year-old Marine, I taught my wife to shoot with a borrowed .22 pistol and a Marlin 39 lever action. When I finally got enough money to buy a 1911 (IIRC $159.00 at the PX) her remarks upon shooting it was 'it's loud' as she went about hitting the bullseye. As I had kids with my first wife, and then 20 years later with wife #2, they started with that same Marlin M39 and a Ruger Mark I. I have four kids, with a 20 year gap between sets. Plus grandkids, Those 22's have seen a lot of use. They are all shooters.
I like the Ruger Mark I to start with. I have 22 conversions for Glock and 1911, as well as a GSG 1911 .22, and an M&P 22.
When I go to the range with family, we shoot a lot more .22 than anything else. In addition to the pistols I have a dedicated 22 service rifle trainer, and a couple of 22 conversions for ARs as well as a couple of Marlin semiautos set up for Appleseed's
Aside from my experiences, Bill Rogers advocates starting new shooters on .22.
For range plinking you'll have a heck of a lot of fun with family and friends - if that is what you are aiming for.
JMO - I'd get a Ruger Mark IV and go shooting. Build a good foundation and moving on will be easy.
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