This one can be difficult. I have a Benelli Nova Youth around here somewhere, I've actually used it a time or two on pheasants. "Handy" would be my term, but I'm far more used to my Onyx to give it up.

What a youth gun will have going for it will be length of pull which sometimes shaves a few ounces off. Of course, most kids are going to grow and eventually need a longer stock - barring a few smaller-statured shooters. What it has going against it is that it's often going to be available only in 20 ga. Not to get into a debate that the 20 ga is by any means inadequate, the simple fact that a 12 ga throws a heavier, larger shot column makes it a bit more forgiving. Recoil-wise, I've never found the 20 to be a whole lot less recoil unless I'm shooting trap/field loads.

My recommendation: Either find a good, used 12 ga that you're not averse to cutting the stock down to fit, or plan on trading up in a couple of years. Brand-wise, I've had some problems with the Nova and light firing pin strikes (google it and it's apparently fairly common). I'd probably try an 870 Youth (I've two other 870s) if I were to do it again. Although the Mossberg's always available and priced reasonably, I've not been impressed with fit-and-finish. Can't remember if it was a Bantam or Maverick I looked at once, but it screamed "cheep" - though I'm aware they do have a reputation for reliability otherwise.