Yeah I’d ask also.

I built my son a .257 Rob on a Turkish Mauser action as his first rifle and he likes that a lot with no interest in more rifle right now.

If he ever hunts anything bigger he knows he is welcome to one of my rifles and who knows; maybe he’ll want to buy one for himself?

We all value stuff we’ve earned more than what’s given freely. As much as I’ve been tempted to go the route you’re considering with my son I find it helpful to remember that.