I agree with Butch, match the gun to the type of hunting you will be doing. Your girlfriends family would be an excellent resource. Seems to me like they would be the people you'll be hunting with at least to start with. Depending on where you are in the country will make some choices easier for you. If you have pawn shops around that sell firearms that would be an excellent way to save some money. I would also suggest trying to get out with your girl's family to go shooting every now and again to give them an opportunity to get to know you and your abilities so that they can more accurately help you with your selection.