My P3AT is reliable, but recoil is pretty snappy, but it is also VERY light, so easy
to carry, and simple, no safety, just long DA pull. Ammo selection is super
critical in this caliber. Any of the ultra small, ultra light .380s are a PITA to practice
with, a real problem with an only gun.
Also a J-frame S&W is a great choice. If she is recoil sensitive, 642 with factory 147
WC ammo is pretty mild shooting. And the revolvers bring this soft load for practice
concept to the table, a good thing for a newish shooter. 147 WC factory for practice,
and if she can handle the recoil, 125 Golden Saber +P, and Speer 135 Gold Dot are
good for-serioius loads. The Win PDX1 130gr is also a good one, according to testing
in gelatin with denim from snubby revolvers.
Off body carry (purse) is problematic, too. Purses get snatched, or are across the
room when needed, or can be accessed by children and other fools when left
unattended, even briefly. This is a good solution if a holster doesn't fit her
lifestyle and clothing choices.
https://www.sneakypeteholsters.com/s-w-bodyguard-380-sneaky-pete-holster-belt-clip/#gallery-1
My wife will not put anything into a pocket, or wear a belt, but this clips on. Is
bigger than a phone case, but in several years of wearing it, she has never gotten
a second glance when visible on her hip. Magnetic flap retention.
IMO, .38 Spl is more powerful than .380, but best .380 ammo, like Hornady JHPs
by Fiocchi are pretty darned good. Here is a guy who spent a HUGE amount of time
testing .380 ammo in short bbls. Worth watching if she will use a .380. This is
the summary, all the individual test videos are out there too. If she winds up with
the little S&W or Ruger LCR .38 Spl, I agree that the laser sight grips are a really
great thing indoors or in dim light when finding sights is hard.
Good luck.
Bill