You’ve provided some usefull information already so lets start from there. You have experience with shotguns so that would be the first firearm I would suggest. You didn’t say if it was a semi-auto, pump or O/U but I would suggest you get one that your used to in the gauge your used to. Once you done that them pickup some shells and find a place to practice and when I say practice I’m not talking about sporting clays or skeet, keep it simple. Practice on fixed objects such as cans a tree or just a spot on the ground until you feel comfortable with it.
I’m not much for recommending specific firearms for people but in this case I will. I’ve got several shotguns and all but one is a side by side or an over and under and it’s a Ithaca Model 37 12ga pump with a 18 1/2 inch barrel. I carried my first one on a limited basis in Vietnam from 1970 to 1971 and carried my next one daily in my patrol car from 1973 to 1978, I’ve had one in the house ever since. The model 37 won’t win any beauty contests and it won’t break the bank when purchased but it will deliver one of the finest, smoothest and reliable actions ever built, it won’t let you down.
Should you decide to take it to the next level and get a hangun again I would keep it simple and nothing is more simple than a fixed sight revolver. There are several companies make them so your real choice is caliber and here where I’ll differ from many. You here people say well thats too small or you have to have atleast a 357 or 40 cal minimum for self defence and I say bunk. What you have to have is a caliber your comfortable with that you can shoot well and that can be as small as a 22 LR or a 45 ACP again thats up to you. The main thing to remember is once you start poking holes in a person it’s a game changer so pick a caliber that makes that easier on you. I hope I’ve helped in some way, stay safe.
I had a 20 guage over/under Baretta. I was fine with it at the time.
Honestly I’ve been surprised at the number of people saying I need a shotgun for home defense - but I am taking the advice seriously.
I have made contact with a professional trainer close to me and he teaches a class for women which I want to join. I found him by contacting the local IDPA - as recommended to me by a freeper. I plan to stay in practice also.
I think I’ll end up with 2 guns - a shotgun and some sort of revolver. That way I am covered - as well as I can be.
Afraid the climate in this country will just get worse in the coming years and I don’t want to have to be a sitting duck if I can help it.
I appreciate your advice - since I knew next to nothing when I made my post last night - your information, as well as all the comments from Freepers, is extremely helpful! I’m very grateful for all the great advice!