Familiarization with the AR platform needed?

[dachan]

I'm responsible for the High Power events at my local club, went Distinguished several years ago (on a M1A) and am a certified NRA Rifle Instructor (among other certs). Recently our Smallbore committee approached me about familiarizing a junior participant of the Air Rifle events with the AR platform as he just turned 18 and will be joining the Army in January. Is this recommended? Or should he wait for Basic? Originally, I thought he wanted to learn about competitive high power, but now understand he just wants a quick intro to the AR platform. I was never in the military (though my sister was a major in the Army) but have shot along side with the MCRD instructors, AMU and the national military teams. Based on those experiences, it seems better to have him wait to learn the military version, than to give a short intro at this late date. Right or wrong?

[rromeo]

If he can follow instructions, he'll be fine.
When I was in recruit training, the newbs did just as well as experienced shooters. I had never shot a centerfire rifle and scored expert.

[The Director]

It's only going to be half assed if you make it that way. If you can teach the basics of the rifle to him, he will have an edge, plain and simple. Since when is knowledge of anything bad?

[Boone]

They military is going to want him to shoot their way. It's much easier to learn once, then have to relearn what has previously been taught.

You can always give him more information after he learns the basics, at basic.

[MRX9989]

It's not necessary.