Well I have a 22 mag, 22lr and a 17 in the safe that would work for now. I own a ruger 243, I have a whole assortment of guns but Ive never had too think in terms of youth before. The 243 doesnt kick hard but I think the gun will be too long for him, even in two years. he isnt small but a youth model would probally be better. I am leaning towards shooting the 22lr alot this summer and then upgrading too something a little bigger next summer and then going from there.