[rvb]

what type of handgun shooting are you wanting to do? Bullseye or practical or steel?

1) find a match in your area.
2) show up with a 9mm or larger pistol/revolver and enough mags/moonclips/speedloaders to hold 40 rounds
3) have a safe holster that completely covers the trigger.
4) know how your gun works enough to be safe with it
5) let the people running the match know it's your first time.
6) have fun

Shoot what you have for a while and worry about buying a new gun after you get a feel for what you like or need. Ask around at matches and people will usually let you put a few through their gun.

-rvb