Click on PA, it will open a PDF telling you everything you need to know, except that you should take some classes. The NRA Basic Pistol Course at least.
You don't need a permit to buy a pistol in PA. To buy a Pistol from a FFL you need to be 21 and pass PICS. After you make your selection and fork over your money you should be on your way in 20 min. or less. To carry it loaded you need a License To Carry a Firearm. There is a wealth of information @ pafoa.org.
Those folks know more about firearms laws in PA than most LEOs
Once purchased you may transport it unloaded to home or to the range. No Stops! Once your get you LTCF A whole new world opens up. Apply at your county sheriff's office except Philly. In Philly you go to the police. That is to say the county in which you hold residents.
Ditto that. I haven't lived in PA since I was thirteen, but I love to stay in touch with the state. pafoa.org is great. I do the the same with my other former home state, CA. Calguns is a very active, energized organization, foundation, and website that is helping to lead the way in some of the biggest 2A advances in recent history. Between those sites and the beloved Firing Line, I don't have enough time in the day.
Good luck with your purchase. Support the NRA and other rights organizations, CRKBA, CALGUNS, SAF, and others.