Small game hunting

[meathead]

1. Check with your state's wildlife department on license and regs

A .177 caliber air rifle wouldn't be humane imo, it won't reliably kill in one shot. The .22 cal air rifles will easily kill squirrels with head shots. There are a variety of operating mechanisms. Of them, the break-open models are the simplest to operate, so long as your son has the strength to operate it. The velocity doesn't really matter and speeds above 1000 fps harm accuracy.

Regardless of what you decide to buy, treat air rifles just like a firearm. Pellet guns can maim and kill people, so follow all gun safety rules.

Good luck hunting and report back