I'd take a hard look at a .25-06. Softer than a .260, better performance than a 257 Roberts. Both of my cousin's daughters have them in Savage 110. They each started hunting at 12 and love their guns. An aftermarket recoil pad like a Kick-eze or Sims should also be considered to be on the safe side. Don't want her to hurt, that's negative feedback from the gun,vs. the positive of shot placement.