Mr. Jakearoo:
My suggestions are tainted by the fact that I am a confirmed single shot rifle sort of guy, with minor infidelities involving old Marlin lever guns.
For a small person you might look for a Ruger #3. They are essentially the same as the #1 but smaller and plainer, and considerably lighter. One of the chamberings available was .44 Magnum. Such a rifle would be an effective close range deer rifle, light enough for a young man to handle and kind and gentle enough for him to shoot. The #3 has been out of print for a good while but are still found at gun shows and the like.
Another thought is the copy of the Stevens 44-1/2 being made by CPA Corporation. This is a switch barrel design, and so adds a bit of flexibility. The down side is the gun comes with a double set trigger, which is probably not ideal for a new shooter, or anybody in a field gun for that matter.
The Ballard Rifle Co. makes field type rifles on their Winchester and Ballard actions. Real nice stuff but not a cheap date.
Of course there are all the old original single shot rifles, but folks tend to be quite proud of them as well. One good option might be to find an original single trigger Stevens 44-1/2, which are smaller and lighter than most (including the CPA copy) and have a barrel fit that is chambered to the cartridge of your choice.
Best of luck to you and your son.
Glenn
