So, this weekend I managed to take a new shooter to the range. A coworker of my wife called because her 18 year old daughter was home from college and was looking to rent a gun somewhere and try some shooting. The local range no longer rents guns as they had a few suicides last year and made that decision.
I commented that I would be more than happy to provide the pistols, ammunition, targets, and training. I was planning on paying for the range time too, but her father took care of that.
They came by the house for a brief safety primer and then headed to the range.
Of course, I brought the Ruger Mark III 22/45. Nothing beats a 22lr pistol for learning how to shoot, and she took to it like a fish to water. Her first target at 7 yards was fantastic. 90% of the shots were in the center. I couldn't load the magazines fast enough for her and she was grinning from ear to ear (as was I). Her father was very happy for her as well as she did an amazing job. Her finger would index immediately upon picking up the pistol or after a jam. I complimented her repeatedly on it as well as her shooting.
Towards the end, I asked her if she wanted to try the .45 (after watching her shoot, I could tell she'd be able to handle it). I loaded up a few rounds and put them in the target with her standing next to me to get an idea of the sound and watch the recoil. My shots showed my signature inability to control my breathing and made a perfect line up and down. Dammit.
I let her get a feel for the pistol, and the stood right by her as she let off the first shot.
How do you measure success? When you see the look on her face and ask her if she wants to shoot some more .45 and she gives you a Cheshire like grin and says "YES!!!!". She went through 2 magazines.
That, of course, was the end of the session. Her shots with the .22 had already started widening up, indicating her arms were getting tired and I wanted to end on a good note. She was ecstatic about her success and said she'd love to go again. Her father had a good time too and is looking forward to more trips as well.