Do you reload? Will It be a life time gun that might some day be a long range shooter also? If he is experienced at shooting or even moderate padi-wan go with a heavy barrel and great glass and he will be set for a long time. I own both rifle calibers and love them. 270 and 308 will both reach out a long way. My 270 happens to be me 200 and under range and slim barrel Remington. My 308 is a 26" bull barrel long range shooter and fun gun.