When I was 10 I started out with a .30-06, but that was just me... I didnt like the kick so I sold it and bought a Remington Model 700 .270, and I love it. I' ve heard stories about how .270s kick harder than a .30-06, but they dont, it' s light, accurate, and will work for just about anything from deer to elk, to bear, or cougar (At least thats what I use mine for ). If you buy a used one theyre relatively inexpensive. [:-]