Flyinlowe, knowing that you have some goofy regulations to deal with. The best gun for your son is the one that fits him the best.

Take him to some reputable dealers, like Bass Pro and Cabela's or some such, whatever you have near you with LARGE selections to choose from.

Then when you find one he likes, and that agrees with your budget, get it from a local dealer.

But keep in mind, you're GOING to pay more for one of those calibers in a YOUTH model. Rather than buying a standard youth model gun in a regular production caliber, like .243/7mm-08, even the venerable .30-30.