There inexpensive NRA sanctioned clinics that will teach you all that you need to know, and believe it or not, you can buy used service rifles from the government at a really great price. You should not need a rifle to get started. Most clinics have rifles for shooters wihtout them. Give the NRA a call and start asking questions.
As for there being mostly older guys, yes there are a lot of older guys. But there are also lots of younger unattached ones, too.
I hadn't realized that. That makes it much more approachable...
Thanks for the tips! I just might check into this...