I think noise is a big factor but I have 2 good sets of muffs, may try plugs under them though. He has a youth 223 but want him shooting something larger for obvious reasons on deer. I have a 22-250 ,pretty loud, I can stack a 1/2 group and he can not hit within 6 inches at 100yds but I think this is due to a full size stock, don't know. Wish I had $$$ for a rem model 7 in .260, I think that would cure my troubles.