To start off, nothing comes close to the .22LR.
A Ruger Single Six is about perfect.
Yes, Ruger New Model Single Six is fantastic and easy to handle, especially for smaller shooters or hands. A Ruger Target pistol, with a bull barrel, is also great. Both are easy to handle, easy to shoot, incredibly accurate, and very cheap to shoot and shoot and shoot. Can’t beat $0.03 to $0.05 per round!