new gun owner, Pax, firearms....
New gun owners & questions from those new or entry level to the shooting sports are common on gun forums.
I'd start by learning and understanding the local gun & use of force laws.
Guns are not toys, props, political points or statements, or fashion accessories.
Know & fully be ready to deploy
lethal force if required.
If you can't shoot at a person or feel untrained or unsafe with a loaded weapon, do not carry a firearm.
Pax, a TFL member has a special forum for women and can assist you.
Take classes or workshops with a respected instructor or program. 100s of "experts" have sprung up in the USA since 2000 or so.
Top firearms & use of force trainers include: Thunder Ranch, Massad Ayoob Group, Larry Vickers, Duane Dieter, SIG Sauer Academy, Bruce Gray, Todd Jarrett.
Use quality weapons, gear and equipment too. Don't go cheap or cut corners.
I always say; "its cheaper than a casket".
Use only factory made ammunition for defense. No reloaded rounds or hand loads.
There are books videos and guides now available. See these websites;
www.NRA.org www.gunvideo.com www.brownells.com www.handgunlaw.us www.midwayusa.com www.gunsamerica.com www.jgsales.com www.galls.com www.grafs.com www.gunlawguide.com www.mylegalheat.com .
Clyde F