My oldest son is 7 as well and this summer I bought a single shot bolt action 22 made by CZ for his birthday last year. I don't know the model number, but it is the only youth gun on their web site (CZ-USA). I think it was the 452 scout. The thing is a tackdriver. It is a great rifle. My 7 year old is big for his age, but my 5 year old uses it as well. I would recommend it to anybody. As opposed to the Chipmunk (which is also a nice firearm) the CZ is big enough that a kid won't outgrow it as quickly (also true for the Henry and the Marlin). I have not had experience with either the Henry or the Marlin, but I doubt that they could have much of an edge on the CZ. Any way you go, enjoy shooting it with your child. I know it has been a special experience for me.