Ok...as to what kind of new(ish) rifle to get for the lads....

Are you planning to shoot only "high velocity" 22LR rounds?? I like to shoot subsonic 22CB rounds at the "vermin" around the house. BUT I do not live in an area where it is unlawful to shoot a firearm....just don't wanna make a lot of racket. Those rounds will not auto-cycle in a semi-auto action. Which is why I use a lever action 22. They will manually cycle in a semi-auto though.

I was gonna suggest the Browning Auto 22 because it ejects its empty brass downwards. BUT JB says the brass ejecting from his 10-22 don't bother him. So, 10-22 just might be a good choice...IF you go for a new(ish) rifle.