Looking for a 410 shotgun for son.

I grew up shooting 410, and then raised two boys of my own. We started with 22's then moved up. When we start thinking grouse we all instinctively reach for our 410's, as we have very fond memories. It should also be said we have no shortage of choices either to choose from in the safe. We like what the gun and shell bring to the table and we all shoot it well. We like the report of the 410 and using number 4 shot we hardly lose a bird. Usually using 3inch shells but we will use 2 3/4 I have a Mossberg mini bantum and a bolt action Mossberg and a side by side with 24 inch barrel . The mini bantum is so light and compact that we have found many other uses through out the year. Slinging it one does not know they even have it on them.We have also found slugs to be accurate through the mini bantum and as such will use it on small game. One needs to compare the weight and velocities of 410 slugs with pistol ammunition. Then go out and shoot/and hunt it. This shell has served my family extremely well, I reload it as such the one down fall is the cost of shells, but reloading it has fixed that. Calibers, gauges, actions makes and models are just as varied as the opinions given. I hope mine helps with you.
 
A .410 will be frustrating for the lad in missing. It's pattern is small. It is an experts gun who knows it's limitations and stays within them. A 28 would be an excellent choice but harder to find and ammo is pricy. A 20 ga is by far your best way to go. Lots of guns available, ammo is plentiful and reasonably priced. If the stock is adjusted to fit him he will score far more hits than with a .410 and he will enjoy shooting and become confident.
 
I have a nice CIL Pardner youth model for my 9yo son. Very light, easy to open, easy to pull back hammer.
We (he) uses it at the range. We put clays on the sand bank and make nice designs in paper with it.

I’ve even carried it at times. Great length for across the ATV. Taken many birds with it. Come to think of it, I’m not sure I’ve ever missed taking one with it.

I’ve got a 12g for flying things further away. My thought is I dont want a 20 and risk mixing up ammo. I’ve thought of picking up a nice semi 20g, but haven’t really figured out what I’d use it for.
 
Have you tried to fit him to a Henry lever?

I started with a .410 bore and still use a break action for upland birds. 12g is way overkill for chickens.
 
I never bought into the 410 is hard to hit with bull#### ,it was my sons first gun to make it easy I threw clays by hand ,he hit a bunch first day out it didn't kick the crap out of him and he begged to go again and we eventually moved to the hand thrower and now proper auto trap with 20 and 12 gauge ...let your kid shoot stationary if he cant shoot thrown targets ,the idea is to get them used to firearms handling and safety
 
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