Congrats did same thing last year my girl said I quit smoking I get a ar15 and accessories for it and she'll help. 1 are later and 1.5 yrs smoke free. Congrats on the nice piece you also got for going smoke free
I would ask around see if someone has a shotgun you can shoot a few rounds out of. We decided a 20ga was the way to go for my gf the 12 was too much. She can cycle the 20 pretty good and she said the mossberg felt more comfortable for her after shooting a few ones
As for Joe great advice...
My moms boyfriend ordered one from shadow ops weaponry for 150. The down side is gotta wait a few months for it he said. But bright side is gives him time to wait for upper and just about everything else to calm down price wise
I'm going in April down to TX as well and my mothers boyfriend has been asking me to bring some ammo he can't find any of what he needs I tell him we are hurting here as well
Have you checked ak-builder.com. he's had a few milled barrels recently they are non chrome and cost about $150. Just keep checking there frequently and some.might get posted