I just got my FID for long guns, although I don't know anything about guns or ammo. What is a good gun to get my hands on that will help me learn more but won't break the bank, at the same time being ideal at home defense?

7 minutes ago, salvatorejrc said:

although I don't know anything about guns or ammo.

Welcome to forum, others can you much better advice about picking a long gun,  

but I would start with wherever you are located, take a class first. They are not really expensive and worth getting a feel for them. I call it money well spent.

I'm fairly new at this as well however from what I've gleaned from others the best home defense is a good quality AR 15 firing 223. However, these days that firearm and the ammo may be somewhat hard to find. 

The next best for home defense is a 12 gauge shotgun, a mossberg or other brand name budget pump shotgun should be affordable however you need to be aware that the recoil can be prohibitive for some and the shells are not cheap. I'd recommend renting/borrowing one if possible and having someone show you how to shoulder it before buying. 

The best gun to learn on though imo is a quality 22lr rifle, a good brand(ruger 10/22) wont typically break the bank and the ammo is still fairly available and somewhat cheap. However, that is a highly controversial choice for defense for a myriad of reasons. 

Ultimately though I think the best gun for someone is the one they are comfortable using and practice/train with. So try some stuff and find what you like. A 22lr is better than a pointy stick and if you like shooting it and want to go to the range/train that matters alot. If you hate shooting a shotgun and don't want to shoot it when it's fun, it may not serve you well when it is time to shoot seriously because you haven't put the time in.

18 hours ago, salvatorejrc said:

I just got my FID for long guns, although I don't know anything about guns or ammo. What is a good gun to get my hands on that will help me learn more but won't break the bank, at the same time being ideal at home defense?

AR-15 platform.

Various model and makes to chose from. Lots of aftermarket parts and accessories available. Low recoil, easy to maintain, etc. Most AR models can be easily made NJ compliant.

Prices are up across the board for everything now, not much can be done about that.

Even used pump shotguns are selling for crazy prices on Gunbroker. 

 

19 hours ago, salvatorejrc said:

I just got my FID for long guns, although I don't know anything about guns or ammo. What is a good gun to get my hands on that will help me learn more but won't break the bank, at the same time being ideal at home defense?

Congrats and welcome to the club!

I find these guys to be helpful:  Best Home Defense Gun [Shotgun vs Pistol vs Rifle]