Since Owen did well shooting, and he seemed very comfortable with doing it, even with the noise involved (sensory issues). It might be time to get him a decent .22 to get started.
The one I learned on was a POS & the barrel always came loose after a box of ammo
My dad has one I can use, but is not the best (Sears & Roebuck S.A. model). He has a single shot J. Stevens 1913, but not practical to modern stuff.
Here is where I am at;
I would like him to learn on a bolt action to get mechanics down 1st. Yes a 10/22 or other SA would be nice, but I'm not worried about how fast he can shoot more than how well he can do it. If you get the 1st shot right, you don't have to worry about the other rounds in them
I know that if I get an Anschu'tz, he will never have to buy another .22 rifle again-EVER! Since I don't happen to have a grand laying around for a 22LR, that's out (you can include a Winchester Model 52 in there as well)
My selection thus far have been a Savage Mark-II (FXP) & CZ 455. The CZ is at the top end of what I am wanting to spend, but that is ONLY if I can find a good deal on one. Read some stuff on the Marlin XT-22's but seems they have issues of accuracy past 30 yards. Ruger 77/22 seems OK, but not much said on those either.