In the final analysis, chronological age means nothing. As some other thoughtful observers have already suggested, a child's level of maturity, both intellectual and emotional, have to be considered before a hard and fast decision can be made. Yet another question which must be asked (and hasn't been yet, as far as I can see from a cursory reading) is whether the kids are eager and avid to start the 'adult' thing of handling firearms, or are they, perhaps, being pushed a leetle teeny weeny bit by a father who has his own perceptions of what a boy-child should be able to do? To make a rash personal judgement, recalling my own self when I was that age, I really think five years is a little bit too young.
