I have owned a 25-06, and really enjoyed it. That being said, the cost and availablilty of different types of ammo for the 2506 can be a problem. I recently purchased a Marlin XS7 in 243, and love it. I purchased the Marlin prior to Remington buying them out, and did so because that was what I could afford at the time. I chose the 243 because of its great versatility, and wide availability-every hardware store and walmart in the world has at least one box of 243 on the shelf. The 243 is also much more economical, and will get you much more range time, which would possibly be critical with a 10 year old just learning to shoot. If I had the choice of the models listed in prior posts, I don't think you can go wrong with the Savage, Weatherby, or the Tikka. Just my experience for what its worth............