Best .22 to cut down for a youngster?

[ReadyontheRight]

I'm planning to get a .22 for my kids to start shooting this Fall. What are your recommendations for a first .22 to cut-down the stock for a youngster?

-1st choice: Bolt action
-2nd choice: Break-open (NEF Handi Rifle comes to mind)
-3rd choice: Autoloader like a 10/22 that we load single-shot

Requirements:
-Accurate
-Open sights
-Ability to easily buy new stock as kids get older

Any recommendations? Any ideas on a good method and/or measurement to cut down the stock to the correct length?

 

[telomerase]

Taurus makes a pump-action .22 with a short stock that can be switched to a full-size stock. A lot of people like them (but you're probably right to look for a single shot; safer and more conducive to learning to really aim).

I used a Marlin bolt-action as a kid and hated the stiff bolt and trigger (and the sights were actually better on my BB gun). Some other THRs have recommended the Cricket.

 

[telomerase]

Good thread on this

http://thehighroad.org/showthread.php?s=&threadid=35520

 

[4v50 Gary]

Thompson Contender. He can always grow up to another barrel and y'know, Dad just happens to have the ammunition at hand.

 

[Selfdfenz]

My 7 yo can shoot his CZ Scout and it's not too small for me to shoot either.
As a result I don't plan to do any cutting on it.

I see them for sale for 150 - 170 dollars.
Very accurate.
S-

 

[Duncan Idaho]

Do a search on Chipmunk rifles by Rogue River Rifle Co.

 

[NapAttack]

If you want to cut down the stock and bbl yourself, a 1969 Romanian Trainer would be a good deal. Prices range from $50 to $100.

Accurate, yes. Dime sized groups at 25yds. This is stock, unmodified. Trigger work, bedding and freefloating the bbl would improve this.

I've since refinished the stock, came out quite nice and worked on the trigger. I haven't bedded or floated it yet, but that's next.