Savage would be a great choice. I have a few of them and they shoot. If he can handlena 308 that would fit the bill. You could ensure he could use it for larger game and get ammo anywhere. A 243 would also be a good choice for deer for a smaller kid. In fact a few use them in our group. 7mm-08 is also great but I have been having a hard time finding ammo lately and it's about ten bucks more than 308. I just picked up a savage 111 stainless composite and this thing shoots the lights out for 450 dollars (308).

Marlin xs7 would be another favorite. Great rifle for about350 dollars