Those all sound like great component. I love my Defiance Deviant XM action. I'd choose a cartridge that will last her for years and hit hard enough to kill elk at long distance, even if you don't intend to. Extra power never hurts. You know that, you've been to Africa. If you're stuck on a short action the 6.5 PRC, any of the WSMs (love me some 300 WSM), any of the short wildcats like a Sherman 6.5/7mm SS would be my choice. My (grown) 5'4'' 130lb daughter learned to shoot with my light weight 6.5 PRC with no brake and shortly after she killed her first Coues buck at 450 yards seated off a tripod no problem. Should be a fun build.