4 inch barrel Model 10 38 Spl
Hard to beat. She may not need the adj. sights of the M-19. A slick, maybe older 60's vintage M-10 would be smooth, easier to handle than a J Frame, better trigger than a Ruger and in .38 Spec, a good compromise between stopping power and being easy to shoot. One can get a Crimson Trace grip for a K Frame. And there's always +P ammo is she wants/needs a more bang and muzzle flash.
An older lady with arthritis doesn't need an auto, even a pop up Beretta. Revolvers take less physical effort, are more straight forward, simple designs.
IMHO,
DF
