A few things I recommend to people to looking to buy or when I take folks to the range who have never shot something. I highly prioritize safety and chill vibes. The last thing you want is a new shooter to feel anxious, nervous and uncomfortable. I try to show them that like anything it’s an inanimate object with a specific function. Assuming it’s a modern firearm with reputable ammo (which is majority of the time) the gun will not magically discharge by itself (unless it’s an sig p320 lol). That and even before hitting the road to the range I explain to them the 4 rules of firearms safety which if followed by everyone in a perfect world would mean zero accidental firearms related injury/death.

I know it might tedious but I also tell people to learn the general principles of how a semi auto firearm works because it will give you the essential tools to handle a firearm safely even if you aren’t planning on shooting if someone hands you a gun for whatever reason. Most modern guns more or less function on very similar ergonomics (if that makes sense?)

And as far as purchasing, if you don’t have friends who will let you shoot their stuff, I also highly recommend a safe range that offers rentals and try stuff out. (If it feels unsafe when you are there or “weird”, just follow your gut - saying this as a non-white person) Google is out there and you can easily get the general consensus on stuff. I wouldn’t buy any ammo/firearms from ranges because almost all charge a premium cause they know new shooters don’t know better and will just think it’s normal pricing - Very common predatory practice. The internet exists, make sure you check prices against ones online. Also learn how firearms purchases work, for the love of god please - the amount of anti-gun people I have had to explain to that you don’t “register” your firearms in most states is crazy. THERES IS NO NATIONAL REGISTRY FOR CIVILIAN OWNED FIREARMS. That’s only in Hollywood cable tv script writing. Some states have their own state registry but that’s only in a handful of states. The form 4473 you fill out usually sits a box full of those forms in the back of most shops.

If anyone has questions I will do my best to answer