My suggestion is to make a realistic list of needs and wants.
1. Where do you live? City or rural. City needs Range membership. Rural only needs Crown Land or permission depending on if your new purchase is restricted or not.
2.What is your purpose for purchasing a new firearm? Hunting small, big game, varmint hunting or just good old target shooting? All are good reasons; just be honest. Your enjoument level will depend on it. If just paper punching, a hard kicking .300 WinMag might be too much. Plus ammunition pricing dampens usage. A .22 can be fired all day for the price of a large Pizza.
3. Remember. A Firearm is only a tool. A expensive hammer will not make you a Carpenter. An Expensive super accurracy capable rifle with a "Sniper" scope will not make you a sniper. That designation is properly applied to the user, not the tool.
4. If you are really new to the shooting sport, just ask for a mentor. Someone that can teach you how to use the firearms properly and safely. This will maximize your safety and future fun level. Remember to be polite. It's his time and guns. He is there to help you. A gift of beverage or lunch probably would go a long way.
5. When you have realistically made your choice, purchase the best you can afford. An inferior item cannot be expected to perform as well as a good one. However; expensive does not always equate with performance either. Research, research, research.
6. When you have narrowed down your needs, ask questions of the experienced members as to what would be better for you. Most are willing to share their vast knowledge if politely and honestly requested. Remember, we are all here because we ENJOY firearms.
7. Be safe, be responsible, enjoy.