Serious questions for gun owners from a total noob:
1. What's the best gun for home defense?
2. Also what would be a good starter handgun?
3. I plan on having 1 gun on me and 1 in my house. Should I get a 3rd for my car?
@basedbagel - shotgun for home defense. And I'd get a 9mm for everyday carry. I actually own a .45... but that's because I was ignorant when I started buying. I find my buddy's 9mm much easier to shoot accurately.
In addition to what everyone else here has said... I recommend practicing by dry-firing (cycling the pistol without ammo). When the sights don't bounce around as you pull the trigger any more... that's a good sign.
@basedbagel - also, when firing, the trigger should be contacting the middle of your finger pad.
The other thing to focus on, is range practice. 
Get out there and hit some targets. Also, it's a good idea to follow the 5 safety rules religiously. Accidents happen. And no one wants to be a statistic.
You will find fellow gun owners to generally be very welcoming, and very responsible.
Cheers! 
