[gorush]

Sure, my wife carries one...it does have a kick, more than my old .45 Public Defender did, but certainly manageable.

[nonsporting]

This S&W Model 66, 4" 357/38, 6 shot revolver makes a great first handgun. (k-frame)

The Model 642 is a lightweight, 5-shot j-frame, that will be a punishment to shoot. It makes better concealed carry pieces. But for a first handgun you want something that will encourage the shooter to actually shoot it.