For my son I bought a H&R Ultra in .308. I like the single for the good hunting eithic it teaches- make one good shot instead of maybe relying on a second. I went with H&R/NEF because it gives me the option to move up or down in calibers. If, when he gets old enough to hunt, I feel the .308 is too much then I buy the .243 barrel and we are set. When he gets older and might want a larger caliber he's all set there, too. I also like the H&R because it has the feel of a smaller rifle while still holding its weight so recoil won't be bad for him. I think .308 might suit your son just fine. There are lots of rifle options out there to find one that fits your son. Good luck.