I like the idea of handing down firearms from generation to generation, but I agree that 30-30 might be a but much for such a young kid and would lean toward a .243 for him. That being said, I would take him to several gun stores and pawn stores to let him try out several different manufactorers for size and fit. Good Luck. BTW My first rifle was a pre 64 30-30 first rifle my dad handed down to me was a Winchester 70 in 30-06. I still use it with the original 2.5x5 scope on it...lol
