In Virginia, it's still relatively inexpensive buying a gun. You pay excise tax and you pay a small fee that allows the vendor to pass along the cost of the background check, which check can usually be completed in short order.

However, since you've mentioned it, you might want to check about whether it's lawful in your locality and state for your elder brother to buy a gun for the express purpose of a minor's use.

I have noticed minors being taught to shoot at ranges in Virginia that are frequented by the state police; however, the guns are locked up and transported by adults when leaving the range.