RE: NEW ENGLAND ARMS?
I first started hunting MANY years ago with a Savage 22/410 O/U. I killed lots of squirrels with it. Also killed my first rabbit with it. Porcupines became scarce around our neck of the woods after I had been out with it for a few years. They are definitely a fine starter gun for a young hunter. I remember the hammer spring on mine was extremely stiff and hard to cock, so you may want to try it. Small hands have a rough time getting the hammer back with a stiff spring. A 'smith should be able to soften it up some if it's too rough. Just something to think about...........