That's a great idea because then the rifle had a personal touch that kids for some reason take such pleasure in. My Dad gave me a couple rifles, and while they are not the best guns in the world, I treasure them because they were something my Dad gave me.

If you can find a White Mountain Carbine or carbine barrel on a Hawkins, that also is a very small well balanced, light weight (tack driving I might add) rifle. I have a small flintlock like that and its a perfect stalking, walk all day rifle. It would also make a great kids rifle.