Yup, that one is truly a proven design. Almost identical clasp knives have been around since the 19th c. at least, very practical and well thought out. Mostly used by sailors, travellers and soldiers. I'm not sure what kind of steel they use these days. But I'd imagine the modern stainless steel versions are pretty good, too.

Well yeah, I guess it would be a good first pocket knife. Especially for a boy who is into the military stuff. The blade is pretty safe, too.