My first firearm was a single-fire bolt-action .22 rifle, as a traditionaly Southern 12th birthday gift from my Dad... and he couldn't have made a finer choice. And I agree a rifle is a much friendlier to the target than a pistol. By far. And once you gain some opinions of your own as to firearms, may I suggest investigating the blackpowder variety. My little .36 Colt Navy (sheriff's Model) is by far my favorite nowadays, and more fun than playing cowboys & indians was when I was 12.
Has that tradition been P.C.'d to death yet? I sure hope not.