While I have 2 H&R's (a 223 and a 243) and love them both...I too would not spend a ton of $ trying to accurize them. While mine are decently accurate, it took a few loads to get them there, I know people that have some that never shot well no matter what they did or shot. I would never take one on a big hunt or especially on one out of state that cost me big $$. If it were me, I'd spend the $ on a better rifle for your son for the hunt...unfortunately, for a young kid, time behind the trigger before a hunt is equally important. If you don't have that kind of time for him to shoot something else, I suppose I might also do what you are...good luck.