I bought my son the 22/410 youth. He doesn't like the 410 much cause it slaps him pretty good. It doesnt have a recoil pad, just a butt plate. And it is a little light. I dont remember my NEF nocking me around like that. He only weights 52 pounds thought. Also after 6-7 fast shots it gets hot and wont eject the shell. I had to take the barrel off and slap it on the barn door a couple times. Shooting it normaly like in hunting situations ( no Dove hunting, i have almost melted a Gold Label doing that) i had no problems. If you want a 20ga. for him get somthing heavier, or youmay never get him to shoot it again. If you thank he can handle itthough why not get the 243/20ga package? The 20 is good for fur and feathers and the 243 would better than the 20 for deer. Ryan shoots my wifes Ruger compact with no problem.