When someone is first starting to fly a 4-line kite, on a good kite, they should learn quicker because it was a good kite with good manners.

Starting them on a bad kite, it might hinder and slow their learning because they will have to deal with all the kites nuances, such as lufting, wadding up, twisting, buckling etc. But will they become a better kite flyer because of it? Especially when they get a good kite?

If I start someone on a good kite, they say "yeah, this is easy...". And I think well...

My dilemma is when someone thinks they have an interest in kiting but are not sure, they are reluctant to buy a kite because they don't know. I have someone who might want to learn and I'm tempted to let him learn on a 2m Pansh I got for free. It has odd flight characteristics..

Not use the "bad kite" as a trainer?

You have several different kites in your quiver that you could teach this person on, Not saying you can't teach on a Pansh, If you know it has bad flight characteristics, you may actually make them lose interest. A first successful flight is much better than one you had to fight the whole time to keep the kite in the air, just sayn. I realize you got the kite for free and little to lose if it gets damaged. Totally understand.

JMO

Either way, hope the newbie has fun!

Your skydog or Beamer are both good 'first kites'. But keep the winds around 10 mph for their first outings. The 2m flow would be good as well. All these are perfect for the beginner. Being able to correct their bad flying habits is a key to helping them succeed.

I've used one of my old kites to teach with, but only long enough to where they get the hang of "push - pull" and they are no longer slamming it into the ground. As soon as possible switch to a nice managable kite ,it saves some wear and tear on your more valuable kites.