You are correct to be concerned about muzzle blast.
It's pretty hellacious in that 18 inch barrel and the recoil will exceed that of the Marlin 30-30 as well.
Get her a 22 inch barrel. She'll be more comfortable and shoot better, too, because the rifle will balance better.
I've heard a lot of good about the inexpensive Marlin XS7 models if you can't make the Ruger American work.
For your type of hunting the 30-30 is excellent and I hear Marlin has gotten their 336 quality control issues under control......look at some new ones. They look pretty good, and that gives you another good option. If she's used to the lever action and likes it.....why change?
Last edited by DancesWithGuns; 05/25/15.
