Apparently there are enough "old fashioned" police and other folks around, here and abroad, for S&W to keep the Model 10 in the line. I know there are many, many more "modern" guns, but I consider an old (pre-lock)* M&P revolver about an ideal gun for a "non-gun" person.
It is super reliable, has moderate recoil and blast, is easy to use without complications, and the 4" barrel is long enough to be useful in a "point and shoot" situation without being long enough to be awkward or catch on things. Guns with multiple gadgetry, seven way triggers and 28 round magazines are fine for those who like them, but the old S&W will get the job done without fuss.
*I am not an anti-lock person, but for a simple gun, the fewer complications the better.
Jim