O/T Firearms 101: Have some questions on laws-

If you have little or no experience with firearms, or don't plan on practicing alot, get a revolver. While autos are popular, to use one properly requires more practice clearing jams and new firearm users can have ADs. I'd suggest nothing less than .38JHPs & stay away from 9mm. If cost is a concern, the old Charter Arms 44Special "Bulldog" is a decent choice. Except for Baretta & the German,Swiss, Austrian makes I'd avoid the European firearms.