There are several good guns to choose from. I first must assume that you are wanting a semi-auto, not a revolver .... Is this correct?

If it is, there are a few top of the line guns that would meet her needs. One is an HK USP Compact .40 cal. It is an amazing handgun. Was used by the Navy Seals for a while, then HK began making them their own gun for Military service. I own one, and might be willing to sell it. I bought it to carry concealed, but I have since bought three or four others that I use more. So it doesn't see the light of day much. And my wife has shot it and likes it a lot. It fits her hand well. And the recoil is quite managable.

Second would be on of the Glock Sub-Compacts.... These are very reliable too, but their configuration has the safety built in to the trigger, so if the trigger is pulled, the gun goes Boom. If it is laying on a table and it is loaded, a child can walk by and pull it and make it fire... Thats my only beef with that gun... The HK has a separate safety and decocker switch on the gun..... you have to remember to push it down to fire.... very safe.

Others I like a lot are Kimber's , and Para-Ordinance. Para makes some fine compact 1911 style guns that work wonderfully. I want to get one of them one of these days. Guns likt the Wart Hawg or Nite Hawg.... great size and good stopping power.... I believe they would fit a womans hand size very well. Another very dependable brand is the Sig Sauer ..... They have a good variety to choose from so I'm pretty sure you could find something in that line to fit her...

Where in LA are you located.... I am in El Dorado, AR about 15 miles from the LA line.

Holler if you need / want me to break any of this down further.... Glad to help. I have bought my wife 2 guns this year for her protection. One in the car and one in the nightstand. PM me if you want to discuss anything.

God Bless

MET