First, learn and understand every part of your chosen firearm(s). Then know, inside and out, the mechanics of each part and how they all work as one unit.
For example, fire control group. Striker vs Hammer. Can there be/are there multiple sear(s) in an AR platform?
Blowback vs recoil?
Thank you!
I’m looking forward to the personal development and good people that I will be interacting with through this network.
Thank you very much for the resources and advice. I’m thinking skilled, calm, and collected is where I want to venture to along this journey.
Semiper Fidelis, thank you sir!
Thank you for the advice and the information, much appreciated.
Not a problem. Let me know if you have any questions and or information you need cleared up. I don’t claim to know everything, but that’s why we are here…knowledge. If I can’t answer, someone else here will be able to.
I’d also recommend “Deadly Force” by Massad Ayoob.
Actually you won’t be disappointed reading every one of his books. 
What he said.
Thank you for the advice.
As you read and learn might I suggest starting with a .22 Pistol or rifle. Certainly, a lot of it depends on how much $$$ you want to invest but I love teaching people on a 22 first. That way you can correct any bad habits that may form. They are also dirt cheap to shoot.
Definitely try to get to a range near you for some classes and to try a gun if they offer that.
To add to that, buy a quality 22…or two if you want to learn more (pistol and rifle). You’ll keep them forever and be able to use them as starting tools for others.
Welcome to the Community @Paul148! Everyone here was in your position at one time and most of us didn’t have a “community” like this. Feel free to ask any questions you and and take advantage of the wisdom here and in the training section of the USCCA site.
@MikeBKY took the words from my mouth [Or thought in my head that was going to be typed haha]
I’m not certain if it’s granted at platinum but if not would be worth it too get elite and use the E-Learning portal…
Speaking of that need to finish myself since out of school for summer [More like no-aid to pay for summer].
My advice to you is find a gun range in your area that employs good firearms instructors and get some firearms training before you decide to get your carry license.
Welcome to our community. Your of to a good start. Safety, education and training are your best friends. Developing a network of like minded people will go a long way to accomplishing your goals. I like that you are looking to be a better person as you enter into this journey. This isn’t about guns but rather good honest people who look out for the family, friends and neighbors. If you’re not the kind of person that would help an old lady cross the street I don’t want you carrying a gun.
Take a class and go to a range frequently, it’s a huge responsibility and training is good. Welcome
Welcome aboard!
Other than learning the 10 commandments for gun safety, find some quality instruction.
There is no shortage of bad advice regarding firearms, either on the internet or from some “instructors,”
I agree that USCCA can hook you up with the best, most conscientious instructors out there,
You’re in the right place!
One more thought----keep things simple!
It is easy to get caught up chasing “magic bullets.”
Consider starting with a basic, time tested firearm and learn to shoot it well before considering new purchases.
All the latest enhancements won’t help you hit your target if you haven’t already mastered the basics.
Avoid relying on crutches if you can.
One of the first things to learn is when not to resort to lethal force. The laws of most states only excuse the use of lethal force when reasonably necessary to stop a reasonably perceived imminent threat of death or great bodily injury to the defender or another innocent person. Imminent means in the next few seconds. When the threat stops or ceases to be imminent your use of lethal force must stop.
Reasonable means you may have to convince a anti-gun jury you were justified.
Don’t be discouraged, but be sure to train your brain as well as your hands.