It was I kept asking and my uncle finally gave in. I was a little bigger than average but it was more than I could handle. I had 10/22 back then but I wanted to feel grown or something and I thought carrying that Marlin made me feel like like that I guess. Looking back on it, I wouldn't given that rifle to someone so young. Our gun culture may be a little different though. It is not uncommon for someone to be shooting ar 15's or shotguns as a young teenager so being given that rifle may may be less stupid than it sounds lol. That being said, I personally stuck with my . 22 until I was in my 20's and able to buy my own guns. I have a few now but unfortunate ammo shortages are making them hard to use for recreational purposes at the moment.