It'll cost a few more bucks, but I can recommend the Crossman 760 or 664 Series of rifles. The are pretty darn accurate & east to shoot - great for a beginner. They shoot either BBs or pellets, so they're economical too.

And once he gets good, he'll be wanting one of these:
http://jga.anschuetz-sport.com/pm/de...project=jga_de