Pistol for youth steel comp and training

Dmngdchef

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Looking for options for a reliable 22 for my son (11) to start training for SSSF steel target competitions. He's not a gun newbie as he's done competition air rifle, his trainers had him using the 43x and he shoots my Mr920 well. But as far as 22's go, not really sure. Yes a Mark IV seems to be the go to but it has quite the blocky grip so not sure if a Walther grip style of the PPQ would be more familiar. Range near me has the Ruger but jams every couple of rounds (yes, it's a range gun, I know). Guess I'm just looking for thoughts from anyone who has had kids go through comps or did themselves. Thanks
 
Read up on the Taurus TX 22 Competition model. It is designed for steel challenge. It looks cool, which the younger shooters may like. It comes with 2 magazines that hold 16 rounds. You will need to run some (100 to 200) CCI mini mags through it to be sure it cycles consistently. Clean and lube the mags. All my 22 semi auto pistols needed some break in, then they run fine.
 
In addition to the TX 22, I'd also look at a Smith and Wesson Victory. They are simple and reliable. Lots of aftermarket parts for them. It is a lot heavier than the Ruger though.

Other option is this, but you'll probably have to act fast @Dmngdchef

Pick up this pistol:

Then get this kit for it:

When you go to Fuquay to get the firearm, drop by my place on the way home and I'll throw the kit in the pistol for you. No charge. Always happy to help get kids into the shooting sports. I can tell you where the local matches and so forth are.

With the Volquartsen kit installed, that pistol should run extremely well and not give you any problems. If you wanted to run an optic, I'd get a Lobos mount for the red dot. It's lightweight with a small footprint.

Let me know if you have any other questions.
 
Looking for options for a reliable 22 for my son (11) to start training for SSSF steel target competitions. He's not a gun newbie as he's done competition air rifle, his trainers had him using the 43x and he shoots my Mr920 well. But as far as 22's go, not really sure. Yes a Mark IV seems to be the go to but it has quite the blocky grip so not sure if a Walther grip style of the PPQ would be more familiar. Range near me has the Ruger but jams every couple of rounds (yes, it's a range gun, I know). Guess I'm just looking for thoughts from anyone who has had kids go through comps or did themselves. Thanks
The MKIV is my go to, he may end up growing into the grip of the MKIV. However, if that is not optimal, I would also recommend either the Ruger SR22 (slim frame and reliable) or S&W victory.
 
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