What is the best gun to buy ?

You actually CAN purchase a handgun. But not from an FFL it must be from somebody that is considered a 3rd party, or it could be gifted to you.

Since you have a 22 and access to a 12 ga ( I am assuming) I would go with a centerfire rifle. Maybe a 223 or 243 bolt action or a 30-30 lever action.

You should get a black one. No, wait.... a brown one with some black.

This question is asked a lot on Y!A, and it is one of the most useless questions out there to ask without providing specific details.

What is the best gun to buy FOR WHAT?

Hunting (small game? big game? birds?) Target shooting (biathalon? bench rest? 3 position? cowboy action? appleseed?) Home defense (apartment? home? urban? suburban?) Clays (skeet? trap? sporting clays?)

I could go on and on. What do you want the gun for? What is your budget? What state do you live in? - The state question is rather important, where you live may quickly determine what is legal or illegal for you to own.

I think the best gun to buy is a Ruger 10/22. What is it best for? Lots of things - but not all things.

Marlin model 60 .22 semi auto

Savage 110 bolt action 30-06

H&R Topper single shot 12 guage (bullet proof brother!

Well just for shooting I would buy a Ruger 10/22 .22LR. They have any attachment or add on you can think of and a .22 is affordable to shoot. Whichever you decide it will be a good decision.

How about a centerfire rifle of some type?

go for a winchester feather weight pre 64 30-06.

.50

Those are great for shoiting stuff.