My wife has a keltec pf9. She has a harder time racking the slide and we were curious if anyone would know if the bodygaurd is easier, harder or the same to rack.
Usually the smaller the gun is, the harder it is to rack the slide since it needs a more powerful spring in a smaller space.
Maybe a larger hand gun around the Glock 19 size would be easier for her to use? It can be easier to get a good grip on the slide of a larger gun.
Also, using a technique where you grip the slide with the heel of your palm and fingers can make it easier to pull the slide. As opposed to the pinch-and-pull. I just hit youtube and found this demo of it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLViENHQkbk&feature=youtu.be&t=1m55s
I don't remember the Bodyguard or P3AT to be easier to rack than the PF9. YMMV.
I have owned a kelTec P3AT and a Ruger LCP. When shopping for a new 380, I looked at the Bodyguard and the LCP. I felt the Bodyguard sat deeper in my hand, but was more difficult to rack / clear a malfunction than the LCP.
I agree with Leftsock. That method of working the slide has helped many people. I would have her try it out and practice with it. She will probably be surprised. Good luck.
Good choice on changing your wife's daily carry to a revolver. My wife is very small and never got the hang of racking a slide regardless of which method see used.
I ended up buying her an LCR (.38spl). We were very impressed by it.