This is a fine can or worms you've open up. Which is good.

Start with a .22 it's cheap and will give you a general knowlege and skills. A good shotgun (like the one you sugessted) is a good way to also. So that's 2 so far. You said you can't have a handgun

My rifle of choice would be this:

BUSHMASTER FLAT TOP M4 6.8MM 16" W/FLIP (AR TYPE CARBINE)

http://personalsecurityzone.com/cgi-win/...ProductID=33219

In my dreams anyway

Go with your first choice.

Blitz