My very first gun was a Mossberg Single Shot Bolt action in .410, with a modified choke,..I still have and use it occasionally,...and have acquired a few others over the years. Myself, my brothers and sisters, an ex-wife and my kids,... have have all used that .410 on many hunts,... from small game to deer.
It may not be the very best for any particular game,..but it's taken all I have used it for with success. And I am one that does not abide the crippling and letting go of game. Fortunately,...that has never been an issue,... for me at least.
It does have it's limits, but if you recognize what those limits are, and stay within them...the gauge can surprise you. Very soft shooting firearm for those that may need something that doesn't beat on you much,...smaller statured folks, and folks with medical issues especially.
Now having said that,..I don't think it makes a good first gun for a youth. A good 20 gauge,..though heavier in both recoil and report, ...would be a much better choice, and would be more versatile in its range of use,..and I have those as well.
But when I hit the woods for squirrel or rabbit,..one of the 410's is the most likely gun I'll be carrying.
The ability to choose is the spice of life. That's what makes life worth living.....
Just my 2 cents on it,....ymmv