I would say it could taint his idea of hunting in general. Maybe not though, dont know your son. My thoughts areit could really ignite the passion as you mentioned on one hand, on the other it may make him not want to sit patiently for hours, or even days waiting for an opportunity at a shot.I know I was so determined to hunt, I rode my bike to local farms and propeties with my bow when I was only 14. I only wish I had a father to take me hunting, Vietnam spolied those ideas : ) Good luck with your decision, thats a really tough call buddy.