sorry I probly shouldn't be saying this on a benelli forum
but get him or her a 410 / 20 gauge if u think he's up to it
but start him off with a pump so that he learns early how to conserve ammunition and how to acquire a target better
if he is heavy set and able to handle the benelli nova or super nova 20 guage youth then go for it
I would really recommend a mossberg 410