I am going to be pulling the trigger(no pen intended) in July to get a rifle. So until then I'll do some more research and read those pages. I will definitely make sure to update on when things are starting to become a reality. Just wanted to start getting a grasp of things.

I mean, that really depends. I started shooting when I was 12 (.22 rifle) and really only have one handgun and one rifle at a time. The trick is to have lots of shooting friends, preferably ex SF guys, and you can swap toys to avoid breaking the bank.

Lol seriously. I will have quite a bit of questions. To be honest I was expecting some flak over this, another one of those what to buy questions. Thanks again for the replies everyone.

When it comes to the actual buying of the rifle, do I need to get any certificate from the state, stating I can legally obtain one? Or just go into the shop, fill out the paperwork and wait the 10 days?

10 Day wait - just to piss you off... You only need to take a "test" (Handgun Safety Cert.) if your purchasing a Handgun, and it lasts for a while... Since your under 21 you cant buy a handgun anyway.

Just read up on the laws for transport etc.

In South Carolina I walked in and out within 30 minutes when I bought my first AR years back. In California you walk in fill out the paperwork and wait. No certificate needed as far as I know (not from California).

id go with an AR .308

i have the smith & wesson AR15 M&P .223 with a 100 round mag and it is endless amounts of fun, especially with a laser...

I know I was hoping to get a nice SFA pistol. Absolutely loved shooting that at the range that was open by the canyon club, before they had their what.....10, 11th suicide?

Would you recommend taking the beginners class over at the Oak tree?

.308 is going to be a bit much for him for a first rifle... Plus Expensive Ammo. I like the M&P Rifles as well ( I own a M&P 9mm ) Was looking to pick up the M&P AR in .22LR for some plinking and to get the wifey comfortable shooting long guns...

Yea too bad they closed Agoura Target Range... I've actually contemplated looking into opening up another range in that location, but from what I gather the Building Owners will not have it.

They have some good classes over at Oak Tree... What do you want to learn? Depending on what you want to learn you dont have to go to Oak Tree, as there are companies that rent/use ranges for training... There are different levels of classes, you can even get into tactical training, sniper courses, gun cleaning, re-loading, etc.

I don't think there is enough of a clientele around here for it to be successful or worth while enough, but it sure would be nice.

I want to start from the very basics, I will do the four hour basic course they have. Any recommendations?

Do not listen to whoever posted above saying start with an AR308. Absolutely not needed for your first gun and the amount you spend on ammo since you won't be reloading won't be worth it at your age.