RE: what is better for a first time .22 buyer?
Personally, I prefer the bolt actions.
If you want to just burn through ammo, semi autos are ok, but I don't usually do that, so I'm not at a disadvantage with a bolt action. I suppose if you for some reason needed a quick follow up shot, the semi auto might have a slight advantage.
These cartridges are so short you can work the action on a bolt gun just about as quick as a semi auto anyhow once you're used to it, at least that's my experience.