I admit it........I don't like recoil, but like venison in my freezer, there are two different guns I will use for Blacktail. I started with a .243 but now use a .257 Thompson Single Shot. I have gotten my deer every year with just one shot, I like using the Thompson because it makes you be darn sure that you have a killing shot. There is nothing worse than coming across a deer that has been wounded and gotten away to die later. My second suggestion for your kids would be to practice, practice, practice!