General Discussion

I'm an owner. My experience is thay've all been friendly and cater to the full spectum of society. Mine are very Hunter centered, being deep in flyover country.

Just be straight forward, you're new to this, looking for an entry level handgun. (Fair warning price is $450-$600)
I'd suggest 9mm. Mild-moderate recoil, very available caliber, affordable price. (Personal bias)

Many stores offer a Handguns 101 class. (Usually $200 for 4 evening classes) Basic gun safty, breakdown of parts and operation of a handgun, cleaning, mainenece,and some range time with an instructor right at your side. They are super used to and understanding of someone completely new. Super helpful for any non-owner to step in and learn everything you didn't know you didn't know and breaking past that feeling of unease you have with something really outside your box.