I am surprised you seasoned VETS
forgot to mention the "NRA Basic Firearm Courses".
To the OP, the very
FIRST thing you should do is go to the link I provided and take the Basic Pistol Course, these courses are reasonably priced ($80+). It;'s an all day course which will include classroom safety instructions on revolvers and semi-autos, how to properly aim and shoot, breathing & trigger control. After that you will take a multiple test exam on firearm safety and other related things. You will then proceed to the firing range for more instructions, take a little target shooting exam, PASS it, and you are all done. Piece of cake, and they will give you a certificate right there on the spot. You should sign up right now, its worth every penny.
http://www.nrahq.org/education/train...C&Type=BPistol
Good Luck
Ricardo