Not sure what you top end budget range is. If your wife likes a pump action, and you can go this route .. look at the Browning BPS. If she has a small frame, the BPS Micro might be a better choice. Nothing that I know of "wrong" with the Model 1300. I just like the bottom eject and super slick action of the BPS. My daughter ended up buying a Rem. 870 Wingmaster in 20 ga. in a youth size and loves hers. So ... guess what I am saying, whatever your wife's druthers, go for it.