chapotraphouse

Do a gun safety training with the most competent and least right wing group you can. A good course should require several hours (6-8) of training including theory, practice with fake guns, practice with unloaded real guns, and instruction and practice with real guns and rounds. This is approximately the minimum standard for the NRA so think about what this implies about the places trying to run two hour one-and-done places.

Gun safety training is a good baseline because you do not actually need to own a gun to do it but you will be prepared if you later encounter a firearm or find yourself wanting to buy one soon.

If you do buy a gun, train with it regularly at a range.

Buy from a private seller if possible/legal in your state (or travel to a neighboring state). Friends or acquaintances work but you'll probably have to endure some chuddery and go to a gun show.

https://www.findlaw.com/consumer/consumer-transactions/private-gun-sale-laws-by-state.html

Also familiarize yourself with gun laws, especially around 'pistols'. Do not give the ATF an excuse to make you a felon.

Stay strapped or get clapped

I agree with this post, and would just add: even if you don't plan to acquire a firearm yourself, please go shooting at least once or twice just to familiarize yourself with the experience. The last thing you want is your first time dealing with a gun to be in a moment of crisis.