For some reason I like the idea of a Rossie coach double shotgun cut down to just over the legal minimum.
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For some reason I like the idea of a Rossie coach double shotgun cut down to just over the legal minimum.
If there isn't enough hand strength to rack the slide there is little hope of having any kind of control with a DA revolver. That trigger is MUCH harder to fire with any speed and accuracy than any single/safe action.
Also- you don't need any grip strength at all to rack the slide- I rack open handed during demonstration of malfunction clearing- mostly off of the ridge of my palm in front of rear sight- it's all arm strength and when you do it right (divide force needed between a pushing with draw hand and a pulling with support hand) it is very doable- works well for some very small female students. Has also worked for a petite female student with such severe arthritis that operating slide release was not possible.
If clearing a malfunction is a concern for a 77yo woman who intends to shoot enough only to understand the pistol as a functional tool then I think we have drifted into the land of fantasy. I would say worrying about recovering from a malfunction WHILE being attacked- come now... Not realistic for many of us that shoot often (not all, many)
Lots of concern over racking the slide... Why isn't this gun going to be stored already chambered and in a holster?
I would say heavier and longer is better for her as it will fight some recoil. +1 to MarkCo advice on caliber, load selection, and spring selection.
Agree with take her to the range before purchasing. 22lr is fine if she can function the gun & hit her target. If you go with .38spl revolver, you may want to try out a S&W Model 10. Good weight, simple, great triggers and you can pick one up for about $300. I would also recommend Federal personal defense low recoil.