A bolt action , caliber all depends on use and age of beginner. One thing I totally disagree with is anylever action or H&R style singlefor a young beginner. I don't want young inexperience hands having to deal with a hammer in a cocked position when a shot isn't taken and to make a firearm safe.If you're giving the shooter only one round in a lever the gun can be cycled once and emptied otherwise they have to deal with the hammer and a loaded chamber. This is a recipie for an unintentional discharge.