I just got back from my first shopping trip and I sure hope that the other shops I visit are better.

I told the guy I was new to shooting and was thinking about getting a 12 gauge combo. Rifled barrel for deer plus the regular barrel.

He proceeded to show me a Tikka T3 Lite .308. Nice gun but completely not what I was talking about. But it's what 'he would buy' so I guess I don't know what I want in his opinion...I won't be going back there.

Based on what I saw there (and NOT what I heard) I think I agree with Art. A good 12ga shot gun is the most versatile I can get for the money for what I want to get started with.