Knowing how to use a rifle is at least something, even if it's not as useful here in Thorne where they aren't used.

At the question he rests his hands on his hips akimbo and cocks his head slightly.

"Because I'd like to teach you some basics of hand to hand combat, if you're interested."

It might be a good distraction from the issue with his magic. Give him some confidence back, and then see what they can do about that mental block.