You're probably right about the idea of a 308 Ben, I hadn't thought about loading it down.
I still have my old Howa 1500 in the safe that never ever gets used so maybe I could find a lighter stock for it and he could try that when he's ready. It's about 4kg standard!
I'm excited at the thought of doing all that with him Dave, it would be rewarding.
What did your young fella start hunting with Dave??