I think it's best to get him the best gun to start with--unless he'll outgrow it. If he's gonna outgrow in a few years or something, get him a cheap gun.

I think the Browning is worth twice the price of a Mossberg myself. I'd love to have a BPS. My favorite is the Browning Gold Hunter though.

I think you made a good choice. The gun will hold it's resale value pretty well so it's all good.