Several questions....what does he intend to do with it? Target shoot, hunt big game? Varmint hunt? That drives caliber (which impacts recoil)...

I have a Browning A-Bolt Medallion in 25 WSSM...it actually kicks more than I expected it to, but not enough to require changes like a brake or recoil pad. I have rifles with brakes and/or recoil pads (I really prefer Limb Saver recoil pads, the ones I have I really love!)...but they are all magnums...

Also, how recoil sensitive? A wood stocked Browning A or X bolt in .243, 7mm-08, 25-06, and even 308 should be relatively easy on recoil....I would even add 270 WIN to that (my 270 actually kicks less than most of my 308's)...the .243, 7mm-08 and 25-06 are all great deer rifles and easy on the shoulder...my 8 year old daughter and niece both shoot .243's without trouble.