Some will have test ranges, most will not. I’d recommend joining the local rod and gun club. Not everyone has the space that I do and can just set up a range on their own property.
Everyone will have different opinions on what is best. Most agree on a few things. 1. A Marlin model 60 .22 caliber rifle is a must have. 2. A good pump action 20 gauge shotgun is a must have. 3. Optionally a larger caliber scary “assault rifle” I consider a must but that’s me. I have a Saiga 7.62x39 but good luck finding anything like that now.
Anyone who tells you a hollow point .22 can’t do damage doesn’t know what they’re talking about. I personally plan on getting at least two more of them, one for son and one for wife. Tube feed. They always get under the ban radar, even Feinstein’s new bill.
Oh, and by the way, I gave all my guns away, uh, to my brother in law, yeah. That’s the ticket.
I am also totally new to guns although I have my permit now and am planning to buy my first for protection and spite. So here it goes, my 1st dumb question: revolvers, pistols, shotguns, handguns, rifle, what’s the difference between all these??