I'd rather shoot my 1911s all day long rather than a short light pistol/revolver. Too loud, to snappy. Recoil is very tolerable to me with the weight of the 1911 frame, so it my go to gun. If she is having issues racking a slide, I'd recommend a heavy framed 38/357 revolver. The ruger sp101 with houge grips is awesome.
1.Ruger sp101
2. Kimber k6 dasa
3. Colt king cobra
These 3 off the top of my head all come in 4" barrel target models.
Just a small womens point of view. Good luck.
