[tonyz]

I was 12 when I received my first rifle - my Dad's old deer gun - a Winchester 44-40...a pretty good brush gun with little recoil. I received my rifle in exchange for getting all "A's" on my report card for the year.

I was taught safe handling procedures, spent days at the range (sand pit with Dad) and was allowed to keep - my rifle - in my room. I was so proud. I was expected to keep it and my Dad's other rifles clean and oiled. Of course, I was also required to shine his shoes every Sunday night!

If I received all "A's" - next year -...then, I would get "cartridges" !! LOL !!!

BB guns - rifles and a CO2 pistol were already in my rotation.