Find a range. Many will allow you to rent a firearm and will help you with familiarization on safety, loading, etc.

Guns are not one size fits all. What works for GLP posters may not work for you. That is why it is best you actually get some hands on at a range with a weapon before you buy one. For example, my wife likes her 9mm. I like my 44 black powder pistol-don't laugh, most self defense situations don't require more than 6 shots and I can shoot it faster than a semi auto pistol can cycle.

Anyway, OP, find a range and try a few out before you run out and buy.