Good mandolin choice for woman with small hands

[lowtone2]

Mandolin requires longer stretches than double bass if you play Simandl on a 41-42" scale.

Some of the old Lyon & Healeys were violin scale, 13". I have one, but it honestly doesn't make that much difference to me. A 7 fret stretch is still a stretch. I really think it's more about flexibility than size, though, and plenty of small handed people play just fine.

[Jim Garber]

I agree with those who mention above that the standard chop chords prescribed by bluegrass players is not mandatory unless you are playing bluegrass. The OP did not mention those chords nor did she mention that she plays bluegrass. The issue was reaching the 7th fret from, I assume, first position.

I agree with lowtone2 that is is a matter of flexiblity and, I am guessing, realizing that you don't need to anchor your left thumb in the same position. If you need to reach the 7th fret you can move your hand a bit in order to do that.

I don't know if the OP is taking any lessons or what stage she is at but perhaps a few lessons with a good teacher can give her strategies to reaching those notes without getting a shorter scale instrument.

OTOH to have that shorter scale might be more comfortable and should be an option as well. Whatever works to make music playing enjoyable.

[Elliot Luber]

You can buy a Big Muddy mandolin with a 13-inch violin scale, which makes the notes closer together for smaller hands.

[Elliot Luber]

Big Muddy makes a 13-inch scale mandolin. No financial interest here. https://www.bigmuddymandolin.com/store

[urobouros]

Weber uses a 14” scale so you’re already playing a little longer scale than most other makers. I’m in the reverse camp & love hefty necks and v-shape profile of my Weber dola & OM necks. Finding the neck profile & scale length that’s right for you makes such a difference though test driving a variety is a bit tough at the moment. Though returns can be a hassle, it’s worth it when you have the right one in your hands