Russ, What you need is either a K22/Model 17 or Model 18 S&W. It will have a trigger pull similar to your 686, the 17 is a 6" and the 18 is a 4". Both are on the K-frame, just a little smaller. Stay away from the J-frame guns in .22 for a beginner, trigger pull is to hard to master since its a coil spring operation instead of the flat mainspring of the K&L-frame guns. Both are alot lighter than your L-frame too. Stay away from the 617 series as they weigh more than your L-frame. You and her will both get hooked on the 14 or 18 S&W. Of course you can't get them new anymore, so you will have to get them used. Best place to find them is to post a request on the WTB forum or do a search on GunBroker. They won't be inexpensive, but not untouchable. You are buying top quality.
Totally agree.
I have a S&W 18-4 and love it.