Boy Scouts of America: Keeping Shooting Sports Alive

The Boy Scouts of America continues to be among the leading institutions for teaching firearms safety, respectful firearm stewardship and basic marksmanship to future generations.

Webelo Cub Scouts (those who have completed the third grade but not yet completed the fifth grade) are eligible to learn to shoot BB long arms at council and district events, along with participating in archery training. Once they become Boy Scouts—around age 11, through the age of 17—the lads are eligible to receive official Boy Scout training on .22 LR rimfire rifles as well as shotguns and muzzleloaders.

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Rimfire rifles are the predominant firearm used in Boy Scout marksmanship programs, and include venerable bolt-action models and more modern offerings as well. Youth enrolled in the Venturing and Sea Scouting programs may also receive firearm training on rimfire pistols and rifles beyond rimfire calibers—special opportunities that go with these specialized programs.

While participation in these shooting programs is limited to enrolled Boy Scouts, instructors who hold certain types of NRA certifications—and who often have military or police experience as well—are generally welcome to contact local Boy Scout troops to volunteer. It’s one of many great ways to help preserve our shooting legacy and ensure that youth are properly trained in safety and marksmanship. It also helps give our youth the opportunity to discover the joy of shooting!

For more information, visit http://www.scouting.org.