Mr.Scott wrote:OP, where are you located. If you want to get into this, it's best to have a friend. Unfortunately (and especially now) some dealers will say do anything for a quick buck.
+1 to this. You want someone who is not trying to sell you something. Go to a local watering hole or to one another's home and sit around talking about firearms. I guarantee you'll have a great time. Better yet to go out shooting. Don't be afraid to ask questions - like I said your other thread about buying an AR-15, gun people can be some of the friendliest people in the world. Every once in a while you'll come across a jerk, but I would think you'd get that person in every sample of the population. But for the most part, whether it be at a show or in a gun shop or at the range, the people are outstanding.