I think you or your wife can answer that question better than we can. Especially after she tries some .38s. She should have an idea of what she's comfortable with then. And what she likes better, a revolver or semi-auto. For someone with no experience and little handgun knowledge, I'd recommend a revolver. A .22 is nice for beginners, but with you helping and teaching, and seeing as how she's already shot your P232, she might be fine with a .38. Like I said, you should have a better answer than anyone here after she shoots the .38s.

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Misty