There are tons of websites on this topic, but I would like some help from my fellow pede's to make sure I am getting the best information for the situation in the USA today.

Like many others across this country, when the riots and looting started I was shocked to see the police and the federal government prevented from helping law-abiding citizens.

It was like being hit in the face with ice water.

My faith in this country always being able to protect me was radically changed.

I was woken up to the reality, that like in all things if is MY responsibility to provide for myself and my family. I could not count on the government to provide safety. This is something I needed to ensure I could provide myself.

To that end, I knew I had to arm myself. At 45 years old, I had to purchase a firearm.

I did some research prior to going to the gun store, but that all proved to be for naught.

When I got to the store, they were nearly all sold out of all of the weapons I was looking for. In speaking with the guy behind the counter, and evaluating the weapons that they had, we settled on a Ruger All American 45 and a Stroeger 20 gauge shotgun. I was able to buy 20 rounds for the Ruger and 20 rounds for the Stroeger when I purchased the weapon along with gun locks for both.

I would like to go to a gun range so I can train on these weapons, but this does not seem to be enough ammunition to train and retain anything for home protection.

I have now been to the store 3x per week for the last 2.5 months and have not been able to find any additonal ammunition for the Ruger (and I am honestly confused by all of the choices for 20 gauge shotgun).

Can anyone provide advice on what someone new to owning a gun should do next?

After reading about Kyle and people saying things like he was missing a 'kit' extra magazines, talking about his rifle sling(?). It left me thinking that there may be additional equipment that I should be purchasing to go along with my weapons.

Where can I get ammunition for a resonable amount?

What's the best way to get training on a weapon? (the local gun range classes are all booked up for 3+ months).

Should I buy a 'kit'? What is it? Where could one get one?

Should I buy an AR-15? I hear Kyle had a $400 rifle, but all of the weapons I now see online are $1k+. Is this simply due to demand?

What other gear should I be purchasing to prepare for home defense/ riots in the street/ possible cival war?

What tips would you provide for new gun owners?

The NRA looks to be a totally F'ed organization. Is joining GOA a good move?

I would like to ensure that I am legally protechted if I ever need to use my weapon. What types of insurance should I consider as a gun owner?

What are the advantages of a conceled carry permit? Would you recommend that I get one?