Possible first time buyer... need input.

[Aloha_Shooter]

I don't know about getting an "assault rifle" but highly recommend every shooter be introduced to and own "the greatest battle implement ever devised", i.e., the M-1 Garand. $625 plus $24.95 S&H from the CMP -- may cost you an additional $25 to join the Garand Collectors Association or other club (CO AR-15 is apparently a registered club with the CMP but I've never received any "proof of membership" I could send them).

The CMP will also sell you Greek surplus .30-06 ammunition (steel core, packaged loose in steel .30 caliber ammo cans) for $98 plus $11.95 S&H or new manufacture Hornady .30-06 for $230 plus $9.95 S&H per case of 200 rounds or $425 plus $19.95 S&H per case of 500 rounds.

You've got a picture of Clint as your avatar, get the rifle he held in "Gran Torino".