The Truth About 9mm Firearms
Most people carry a gun that fires a 9mm Pistols (by redsema.co) parabellum, because it is just a little smaller than a .45ACP, and is still powerful enough for protection. As always, a .25ACP gun is a great deal better than no gun, but it really is just a little small to be recommended as normal carry gun. Hawes rim fires are not uncommon. That company is or was an importer of firearms manufactured. Many Hawes firearms were imported from Italy and were copies of American Civil War guns.
Giving people suggest about what they might want to use because I have a whole lot of experience with those. The key brands all make quality products, but I recommend that you first try a gun before buying one. Try to locate a shooting range in your area that can rent you the type of gun you would like. That way you may make your own evaluation. The range people can even show you how to use it and show the differences from other models.
A berretta is a well-known manufacturer and makes guns of high-quality. The .25ACp caliber is normally considered OK as a back up gun, but is on the small side for a standard carry gun. I employ a 1911 style .45ACP as my normal carry gun. I switch to a Walther PPK in .380ACP when my clothing won't hide a .45.
Another gun could be The S&W model 686 is indeed a superb revolver. Should the price is right and its in good condition, I'd seriously consider purchasing it.
The nice thing is that your wife should be able to shoot the revolver easily with 38 spc loads. In that frame/weight recoil will be relatively light. The only concern that I might have is her capability to grasp the grip. That is one you are going to have to size up for yourself. If the gun will fit her hands, you are good to go.
As for you as well as your personal desire for "more oomph", go with 357 cartridges in a bullet designed for your intended purpose/s. Even when you too decide to shoot it with 38's, it still has way more "power" than the 22 semi-auto that you have been directed to by others.
I think that you both may have a firearm that one can enjoy shooting and also your shooting options will be many more with this revolver than any 22 semi-auto. In fact if you're purchasing it in part for home defense and/or personal protection... don't even think about a 22 cailber.
The best thing is to practice, but you also need a way to see any mistakes you may be making. Assuming that you'll be somewhat proficient with strong hand shooting, you may compare that to your weak hand shooting.
Lots of people ask another shooter to watch them shoot and note any flinching, creeping as the trigger is squeezed, anticipation, pulling, etc. But I believe that a much more beneficial way is to position a video camera on a tripod and use it to analyze your shooting technique.