Hunting Supplies for Kids

Laws vary from state to state as to when a child may legally possess a hunting license, but children of all ages are permitted to accompany adults on hunting trips. With the proper precautions, there is no reason why a 7- or 8-year-old could not enjoy an introduction to the lifelong joy of hunting. Proper equipment for your child's first hunting trip will help ensure that her first hunt is a memorable one--in a good way.

Outergear

Check with your state's Department of Fish and Game (or similar department) before you plan your trip to see what the regulations are concerning hunting garments. Many states require that any members of a hunting party be outfitted at least in part in the blaze orange, so that the hunters will be visible to other hunters. Be sure to equip your child with a sturdy, warm, waterproof coat, or a lighter weight vest for warm weather hunts, as well as pants and a hat in either terrain-appropriate camouflage, blaze orange, or some combination of he two. There are even garments that blend the two, in a pattern and color combo known as blaze camo.

Clothing

Under your child's outer garments he will need to sturdy long pants (jeans are good) and a long-sleeved shirt, no matter the weather. If the weather is cold, you'll also need to equip him with long underwear in a moisture-wicking fabric such as
silk or polypropylene. Wool socks will help insulate his feet against the cold. Waterproof boots should be worn year-round, although in winter you may wish to have boots specifically rated for cold weather.

Rifles

If you plan to take your child hunting for small or large game, you'll need to find a rifle that is light enough for her to carry comfortably, and one that has little recoil so it will not hurt her to fire. Popular models for youth rifles include the .243 and 6mm for deer hunting and the classic .22 rifle for smaller game such as rabbits and squirrels.

Shotguns

Certain types of small game may also be taken with a shotgun, as per your state's regulations. Shotguns also are the weapon of choice for bird hunting--either upland game or waterfowl. Most smaller-sized youth model shotguns come with either pump or automatic actions, and the preferred gauges are .410 and 20. Most 12-gauge shotguns are too heavy, and have too powerful a recoil for children to enjoy shooting.

Bow Hunting

If you plan to take your child bow hunting, you will most likely be hunting with a compound bow, as crossbow hunts are illegal in most states. Many compound bows are available in youth sizes, but you will need to measure your child to determine the length of draw for the bow you should purchase. You may do this by putting a yardstick at the top of her chest below her throat, extending out in front of her. Have her stretch her arms and fingers out along the yardstick. The point where her fingers are fully outstretched is the length of the draw for the bow she will need. The amount of strength in pounds required to pull a bowstring will vary with the length of the draw and the length of the bow. For example, if your child has a 17-inch draw, it will require 7 1/2 lbs. of pressure to pull back the string on a 35-inch long bow, but it may take up to 17 pounds of pressure for a 58-inch long bow with the same draw. It is best to purchase bows for children locally, as doing so online will not allow you to test the different styles and lengths to determine which one feels like the best fit for your child.