"First-Shot"
In the state of West Virginia, and perhaps the surrounding states as well, there exists well-intended "safety" legislation that requires first-time hunting licensees to participate in a structured 10-hour Hunter Safety and Awareness Program before purchasing their first hunting license. A large majority of first-time program participants are young boys and girls, having reached their twelfth birthday and that are undoubtedly looking forward to their first hunting experience. The program is, however, designed for individuals 12 years old and older. The curriculum is well developed, instructed by individuals with extensive knowledge and concern for safety, and as such, has been extremely successful since it's inception. In addition to the more obvious benefits, it also seemed to us like there might be a supporting role for airguns and Field Target in a program such as this.
From Concept to Making a Difference
First, it was no big secret that airguns often mark the youthful beginnings into shooting sports for many "soon-to-be" hunters and marksman. Many types and brands of airguns available are small, light, and otherwise designed specifically with children in mind - children that could be several years younger than 12 and several years away from the benefits of a structured safety program. And this is where we found a gap - a gap between the WV Hunter Safety and Awareness Program and a youngster's first shooting experience. In this gap is where our First-Shot program was born.
The Program
How do we apply it?
Practically everything we do during the First-Shot program stems from the sport of field target. The shooting range, the targets, how the airguns are set up, and the demonstrations that we give. The primary reasons for this is because kids are instantly amazed by the falling targets, and see airguns as sized right and easy to handle. We often see kids running to get in line for their turn, and just as often see the same faces returning from the previous years. Parents tell us that our exhibit is what their children talk about the most, and why they want to come back next year. What a privilege for us!
How long does it take?
We introduce all the most important safety issues as a group, get the kids to say them back to us as a group, and then teach and reinforce the safe handling fundamentals with each individual participant on the firing line. While it is common for us to repeat our program many many times a day, every 30 to 45 minutes for example, we try to move through presentation parts quickly. Over the last few years we have learned that we don't hold young attentions for very long, and at most events we often instruct as many as 100+ kids in a day . Standing in line watching and listening, they really are just like the rest of us, they want to start shooting and knocking targets over as soon as possible. But when we have them positioned to shoot, sighting in on a field target of a rat, that is when we have all of their attention and can bring everything together.
The program is fast.....its gives quick and positive feedback to the child....and most importantly, it leaves a lasting impression. Introduce, teach, succeed, and remember. That's what we work to achieve.
What to we cover?
Where do we go in the name of Safety?
The answer to that question is, "practically anywhere." It's just that important.
If you have an event planned that involves youngsters participating in outdoor activities, and there is a safe place to set up our field target range and displays on the grounds of your event, we will try our best to be there. Check our schedule of events and matches for the date of your event first, and if we're available, contact us by phone (304.722.2080) or by email to make arrangements.
Testimonials: National Hunting & Fishing Weekend in WV National Wild Turkey Federation - JAKES Day