There are days when I like to attach one of those to my car to make my commute easier. LOL
THR, http://www.thehighroad.org/index.php , is a decent gun forum and would likely be a better forum for more specific and technical details on a firearm purchase than FR.
For my personal opinion, A revolver is a good choice as a first handgun purchase. It is much simpler, reliable, and easier to clean. A shotgun is also a good choice for most of those same reasons, and longguns tend to be a bit less of a hassle.
Be sure you go to your local gun shop, whether it’s Academy or a firearms-only shop, and actually handle several firearms to get a feel for them. If you find some you like, be sure to check ammo prices on its ammunition if you are price-sensitive at all. If you can’t afford too much, think about buying a used one. Bring a friend who knows firearms, and have him help check out the gun first to make sure its in decent shape. Also know the value of what you look at so you don’t get gouged.
Are you looking for just a range gun, something to shoot for fun? Or are you actually looking for something to carry concealed? Ruger’s LCR is a very good choice if so.