I suggest going to a local Wal-Mart or sporting goods outlet and handling them personally. That can make a definate impression. The Howas/Vanguards are the best value IMHO but I believe that they might also be the heaviest.



On a sidenote, I shot two guns yesterday. One a H&R Ultra rifle in 280 rem (the 06 version of a 7-08) . They come with a 26" heavy bbl but weigh no more than a like 22" bolt action. The other was a Mauser in 35 Whelen.



I was shooting 145 gn loads in the 280 and 200 gn loads in the Whelen. Compared to the Mauser, the Ultra rifle was like shooting a .22. Very accurate too, I would definatly reccomend one for a youth. That may be another option for you to consider and they are as affordable as a rifle gets. The accesory bbl program is a neat perk with the little single shots too.



I think every kid should have the benefit of a single shot to start with, it teaches them to make their shots count.

the gentleman who mentioned the savage "sierra" is right on.i have one that is my only walk-around rifle. it is handy,light, and accurate. loaded with 120gr ballistic tips, it is devastating out to 200yds(i haven't shot it farther). a young son, a wife, or a loaner,you can't go wrong with the "sierra" IMHO.

I think if it were me, and I realize everyone has an opinion, I would go for a Ruger ultra light M77RL, in either .243 or 257R. It's a compromise, but it is light, and he'll grow into it pretty fast. I would opt to buy an extra stock for it and have it cut down so he could handle it when young, then put the full size stock on it when he's grown. If they would only make that rifle in .260, it would be perfect, but the .243 and .257 are great rounds also. I have two Ruger M77RL rifles in .257R and .308, they are nice handy rifles that shoot very well. The .308 kicks a bit and is loud, but it is effective. The .257R is very well mannered and could easily be handled by a youngster.