I started my brothers and sisters and grand-kids (ages 4 to 12) on a Savage .22LR/410 and Savage .22LR/20 gauge. The .22 ammo is cheap and the ammo limitation teaches accuracy and patience. If you can find these used they will become "heirlooms" and the young'uns will really learn how to HUNT - not just SHOOT!
There are three savage's in our family and I cherish my .30-30 over 12 gauge. When I pass my kids will get a bunch of rifles, shotguns, pistols, and revolvers - but they are already lining up to grab the Thutty-Thutty/12 bore!
