quote]ORIGINAL: jeepkid
.243 Win, or 6mm Rem.
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I agree with this recommendation. In addition, I recommend that in addition to the hunter safety course, that you provide him with some marksmanship training with whatever rifle you choose, and let him demonstrate his proficiency with the rifle BEFORE he shoots at a live target (if you haven't already done this.) For this purpose, I see nothing wrong with a good, accurate single-shot rifle. (I personally have no use for any of the fast-shooting guns such as a semi-auto, lever action, or pump for hunting. Generally, when you miss with the first shot, you don't get a second one! He might like a NEF single-shot.) The comment about the LOUD NOISE made by a hP rifle often being more significant than the actual recoil is a valid one! I was afraid to try a .30/'06 when I was a kid, because I just KNEW anything that made that much noise was going to hurt like hell! Same for a 2" .357 Magnum!!