She hated it

[Dahliathemeh]

So I'm in the middle of a busy summer, and everything is clicking along fine! The manly man is loving camp, the house is slowly but surely coming along, and I took an entire week off.
Today is ladies night at the local range so I figured what the hey. My sister in law is off this week too, so i threw it out there. I was shocked when she said sure. She never shot before so I took 4 guns that I felt would be good for her to start with. My father in-laws Smith and Wesson revolver. A 1950s? Era serviceman's gun for ease of use.
A bersa thunder 380, my Marlin 60, and my new bersa 9mm just to get lead through it.
She shot her dad's gun, it scared her. The rifle, too big for her, and the 380. After much gentle nudging, it scared her. Needless to say she hated it.

[JEBar]

sorry to hear it didn't go well .... hopefully you will be able to get her to give it another try

[RanchRoper]

More bullets for you...

[GunnyGene]

Most folks like her should be introduced to shooting with a .22 on their first time out. First impressions count. I know you had the Marlin, but size does matter as you found out.

The other possibility, is that she assented, just to please you. Women do that sometimes. If there's another opportunity, you might suggest she make a range trip with another woman who is a shooter. That normally works out better. Take a look at "The Well Armed Woman" web site. They have chapters all over the country.

https://thewellarmedwoman.com/about-us/

[Old Syko]

Most folks like her should be introduced to shooting with a .22 on their first time out. First impressions count. I know you had the Marlin, but size does matter as you found out.

The other possibility, is that she assented, just to please you. Women do that sometimes. If there's another opportunity, you might suggest she make a range trip with another woman who is a shooter. That normally works out better. Take a look at "The Well Armed Woman" web site. They have chapters all over the country.

https://thewellarmedwoman.com/about-us/

Gunny's absolutely right. This approach has worked for me a number of times and not just with women. With kids this approach is nearly a necessity if you want a good result. It even works with some types of men.

[BigAl52]

I agree find a 22 pistol and try again. Maybe even consider taking her to a range with an instructor and joining her in some lessons.

[markiver54]

At least you tried Dahlia. She agreed to go, so if she is TRULY interested, then don't give up.
I agree with the .22 suggestion. Nothing to be afraid of there.

[North Country Gal]

We introduced our grandkids to shooting via airguns, with their parents approval. Turns out, both the kids and parents so loved it that shooting our airguns is the first thing they want to do when they visit. Even a BB gun will work to develop an interest in shooting.

[markiver54]

We introduced our grandkids to shooting via airguns, with their parents approval. Turns out, both the kids and parents so loved it that shooting our airguns is the first thing they want to do when they visit. Even a BB gun will work to develop an interest in shooting.

Yes, even better!

[Coach]

I always start with .22 then work my way up if they want.

My Niece on her first range trip had a great time but didn't want to go bigger than .22. I was fine with that.

She was afraid and after she fired her first shot she smiled and said "that's it ? I was expecting a big kick back. This is fun, I want to shoot more"