I'll likely end up going with the 6.5x55, although I am still considering the .257. Even if he doesn't like the Swede, he can always hunt with one of the other rifles in .243 or .260...but I think he will like the 6.5x55 just fine. He isn't a small kid, and hasn't been recoil shy shooting some of my heavy barrel .308s, so he should do fine.
As far as ammo availability goes, its really a non issue right now. I reload, so it won't be a problem to keep plenty of ammo on hand.
