You're never too young for a gun, says Beverly Melton. 
Tara Talley, 11, of Garland shows off a 20-gauge shotgun at B&S Guns in Garland. The store's Kids Corner offers smaller rifles and shotguns. 'These are the guns that teach them how to handle a gun,' said co-owner Steve Melton. Tara Talley, 11, of Garland shows off a 20-gauge shotgun at B&S Guns in Garland. The store's Kids Corner offers smaller rifles and shotguns. 'These are the guns that teach them how to handle a gun,' said co-owner Steve Melton.
"A lot of guys come in and want to buy a Crickett as soon as they find out their wives are pregnant," she said, showing off small-caliber rifles in the "Kids Corner" of the Garland gun shop she owns with her husband, Steve.
Flanked by bandanna-print curtains with displays set against faux-weathered paneling, the Western-themed nook is designed to appeal to bored youngsters tagging along with parents.
Baskets filled with pompoms and foam footballs rest on the floor. Decorative touches, including sheriff-style gold stars, sparkle on the walls.
But it's the firepower that catches the eye.
Buyers have a range of choices, including a hot pink .22 rifle if it's a baby girl, or a 20-gauge shotgun for an older child.
Despite the overt marketing, the Meltons say their goal isn't to put a powerful weapon in the hands of every child.
"You can't emphasize safety enough with a gun," Mr. Melton said. "They're dangerous. They're guns!"
Handguns generally are not made for children.