I was just sitting here on my grandson's 9th birthday and got to thinking about an ideal little carbine for him to carry when we go exploring the woods together. I figured a single shot is perfect to teach safety and responsibility and to make the 1st shot count. This should be a light little rifle with an 18" barrel and a very simple manual of arms. Having it in 357mag should make it a small game getter with full wadcutter ammo and even a small close range deer arm if needed with full magnum ammo. Shot shells could also be used for pest control. Also cast bullets would be used extensively to teach him casting and then reloading for his weapon.
Something along the lines of a rolling block for it's simplicity and durability seems perfect but most seem to weight too much. A centerfire version of the old Winchester 67A would be ideal. The TC Contender carbine is the right size but the action is a bit too complicated for trouble free maintenance and repair, especially for someone 9yrs old.
Anyone have any ideas to share?