I agree with everyone. You need to set expectations, but not deflate his motivation to hunt. At the same time make sure he knows it is ok to start out with a doe or small buck and that everybody has to start somewhere to start the learning process.

If he is hell bent on horns, then tell him that he should be prepared to go home empty if that is the case. Or due as what many guys i took out, hold out for a buck the first day and hammer whatever gets in the way the second day...more often than not they have just hammered what they see first and are tickled pink.

Also let him know about the traditions of a successful harvest and the joy that comes with each animal taken for the table. Even use the antler can't be eatin and tag/track soup ain't all it is cracked up to be. But ultimately he has to decide and you should support him in his goal.

The one thing I will say, is make sure he is on the safety program. It is great to be pumped, but it can also lead to some not so great desicions...so stress the need for safety and that he will need to keep is emotions in check to harvest any deer. It ain't as easy as going bang and the deer drops. That is my many concern with any new hunter, sure I am pumped too but I also know that the responsibility I have when I take to the field. Please make sure he knows this and is on course before you depart!

Good luck and have fun!