MG357, I cant belive I am the first to suggest you take a knowlegable shooter friend with you to show you the ropes. You most definetly need another experienced shooter to watch you and show you every aspect of safety and the basics. Wish you the best. I suspect every one of us had either our father, a friend or instructor of some type start us out. Dont try it out by yourself the first time or you will be discouraged!