Hi Pete, new shooter....
Hello & welcome;
If you are new to the shooting sports & firearms, Id start by renting a few handguns then see what fits your needs & budget. A .22LR DA(double action) revolver will do fine for target/training. If you want a defense/carry type weapon, you may look at a new .38spl or .357magnum 3"/4" barrel revolver.
A S&W L frame 686+, a Ruger GP100, a Ruger SP101, a S&W model 66.
You can train with .38spl target loads then advance up to .38spl +P JHPs or .357magnum JHPs for regular defense.
A semi-auto pistol could do okay too but many gun owners/CCW permit holders start with a .22LR or .38spl first.
For semi-auto pistols, Id suggest the simple, robust, easy to carry Glock 23 or larger 22. It's a .40S&W caliber but with after market kits or barrels can be quickly converted to .357sig, 9x19mm, .22LR. For one Glock pistol, you can shoot
four popular calibers.
Keep in mind that MA has strict gun & use of force laws. Id also advise you take a few safety & tactics classes. Both Smith and Wesson & SIG Sauer(NH) offer classes for gun owners. SIG also provides weapons to lane shooters/students.
Learn to keep your firearm(s) clean & check them often for any damage or problems. You do not need a lot of gun oil or cleaning products. A little goes a long way. There are many top quality CLPs(clean lube protect) out there.
I'd add that it's best to pay a bit more for top end gear & equipment. A holster that fails or a magazine holder that breaks is
not what you want.
Finally, Id suggest you buy or carry only well made
factory ammunition for your new pistol or revolver. No reloads or hand-loads.
Some gunners feel they can bench load better rounds or are superior engineers to Remington or Winchester or Cor-Bon but Id stay with well made,
proven loads for a carry gun.
Stay safe, learn a lot & have a good time.
Clyde
www.nra.org www.midwayusa.com www.cabelas.com www.brownells.com www.mpro7.com www.gunzilla.us www.5.11tactical.com www.glockstore.com www.deltapress.com www.gunvideo.com www.policehq.com www.safariland.com www.slickguns.com www.gunlawguide.com www.usgalco.com www.galls.com