Hi Smitty_nc1,

Check out the new Ruger Compact bolt. You won't find a shorter or handier rifle chambered for a high intensity cartridge.

It comes chambered in .223, .243, .260, 7-08, and .308. Personally if I were equipping a youngster to meet the requirements you set forth I'd get the .260 Remington. It recoils very little, will certainly take deer past 150 yards....and later...with heavier bullets can be used on game significantly larger than deer. With a 100 grain Partition...it will recoil as lightly...or less than a 100 grain .243, (because of the shorter bearing surface of the bullet). With a 120 -125 grain bullet it will barely exceed the recoil of the .243. It is however more versatile for any game heavier than deer.

Good luck with your search!