How did you learn to shoot?

[fortune]

There are many facets to shooting that don’t necessarily need you to kill something. Some people get a lot of pleasure from competitive shooting whether it is clays or target rifle shooting on a range. Others find their pleasure in being out with a dog and the company of other hunters and feeling the sun and the wind. I’m sure that a lot of people who may read this will know exactly what I mean. I love the chill of the autumn wind and the sun going down ant the end of the day. Some enjoy the club members set.
Well you’ve given us a bit of a jigsaw, but a few of the pieces are missing.
We know that you have a desire to shoot but you haven’t said WHY and WHAT you want to shoot. Rifle or shotgun? And you haven’t said what sort of STATURE you are. You’ve had a lot of good advice from those who have posted here already. Some I agree with and some I don’t. I speak with having four daughters that I have taught to shoot.
I just picked up a gun and started shooting targets. It may take a bit of time to build the right muscles and the hand eye coordination but if you stick at it, it will click into place.
I don’t think it makes any sense that a Woman should get on better with a woman teaching her any more than a man. If the teacher is any good and the pupil has some ability and the will to achieve, then it will be ok.

If you want to shoot a rifle, a 22 rimfire is a good start. Small bang >> no recoil.
Once you’ve got the hang of it you can then go up in size and power.
Now if you want to shoot a shotgun, that’s a different ball game. I disagree with the 410 advocates because although it is a small gun it’s more difficult for a beginner to hit a moving target with because it doesn’t throw as good a pattern of shot as the larger gauges. All of my daughters have been in their teens and have started with a light 20 gauge with 7/8 oz of shot. Life is full of compromises and shooting is no different. Ask your friend whom you trust if you can have a set up WELL AWAY from others. Firstly because you will end up with an audience of MEN who will all give you differing advice. Second, when you miss (and you will, >> loads of times) you may feel a bit silly and just want to put it down and get away.
I could write tons on this for you but I feel that I’m being a MAN advising you. Like you will get at any gathering of shooters. (I’ve seen it happen)
Hold the gun tight into your shoulder and take control of it. You’re the BOSS.