I picked up a 7-08 for my second son to start hunting with (first with a 30-30). Both were good rifles to start with. The second son wassmaller than the first when he started hunting and the 7-08 was somewhat lighter and seemed to fit him better. What ever cal. you choose together make sure that the gun fits her well when she shoulders it. I think you should consider the model, style, type of gun and then consider the cal.