Gun recommendations

[LeftofMars]

Walther P22.

Ditto, I really like mine, and it's lite.

[DefensiveCarry.com]

[retsupt99]

If your lean to the autoloader isn't too pronounced, let me suggest a .22 revolver. First, with a wheelgun your lad won't learn "spray and pray" and shoot just to smell the gunsmoke or hear the empties tinkling on the floor. Slowing it down is really, really good for teaching gun handling and marksmanship (not to mention easier on the budget, even if you're shooting .22s).

Next - if you select a double-action revolver, the DA trigger pull is a huge discipline builder... even with dry-fire. Balance a penny on the barrel (if it has a rib) throughout the DA trigger stroke while keeping the sights aligned on the target... can't really get much out of that exercise with an autoloader.

Last - if you start him out with a SA revolver like a Single-Six, he will have to learn good muzzle and trigger discipline to de-cock and unload.

Gasmitty has given some sound advice, and I agree!