cgturner -

a couple points -
Tikka's a Sako with some $ cuts and are super accurate rifles - just bought the mod 695 in 300 win. Have some issues with the gun - but i'm picky..

First, fit to stock is pretty poor. One day floated barrel, next day little pressure.

Second it's heavy. Have a Sako hunter which is lighter. That would concern me depending on your boy's stature and ability to handle that weight (pending the type of hunting he'll be doing). Suspect that even the 08 will be on the heavy side (proportionally) to him - which will allow for easier steadiing of the shots if he can keep it up but might be too much gun for the little guy. Didn't say when you'll get him started but a lighter rig might be the call.

Also - mine is clip fed. The ejection spring on the clip is inadiquate so the value of a clip is reduced. You have to struggle with the clip to get it out.

More importantly, if disaster strikes and your shots go awry, you cannot topload a clip fed gun! Since I have always instinctively reloaded even a single shell while in pursuit - this is a real problem when your looking to get ready in a hurry or get ready for a follow up shot.

The factory synthetic in this case has a loose front sling screw which I'll have to deal with too!

Lastly, if you want it reliable, you have to get the Finland made scope bases if you want to use a scope and not have poi shift.

So suggest - ck the weight of the finished rifle vs his carrying cap.

The good news with the Tikka is that like the Sako', even with these issues, I can shoot a sub moa groups with 150gr rem PSP corelocks if I do my part.

Second - although a Encore for muzzleloading is on my christmas list -so I have no hands on experience with those in a smokeless capacity, their is a lot to be said for a single shot for a kid!

Teaches a whole different hunting ethic from my perspective and will build a "one shot wonder". Additionally, from a safety perspective, that one shot approach is highly desirable I think.

I started myself with a single shot 16 gauge and knew I had one shot so every one counted.

If the weight isn't an issue - the Tikka is super accurate. But can't ignore the practicality of the T/C.