I’m kinda a “best for the money” type of person. So I have a few “cheap” rifles. Today’s cheap rifles are a lot different than 15 years ago cheap rifles. Today, you don’t need to go custom nor drop thousands to get an accurate rife. In fact, most companies today offer a moa guarantee even on their budget lines.
I agree, none of my axis or American rifles are as “nice” nor smooth as my tikka, but they shoot just as accurately and are reliable.
IMO $2,000 is a very good budget to get a quality rifle and glass. Since we can shoot so late here in SC, most people here will buy an American to tikka priced rifle and put a $1,500 piece of glass on it.
If his son wants a “crossover” rifle, maybe an sig cross or Springfield waypoint would work.