I think this really depends on the maturity but it sounds like he is ready. My 11y/o who is still a little squirrly has proven to be much more mature in the woods than I ever would have thought. He even passed a good buck last year because he couldn't make a clean shot without shooting through some brush. Honestly, I'm more concerned about him not using his harness when in a treestand than any issues with a bow or gun.