I agree with you that a half mile range would be plenty. One rule to follow would be never shock your dog if you can't see it. I feel that a 300 yard range would be plenty as well. Most dogs won't work out past 100 yards. Cabela's would be a good place to buy a collar, or Bass pro shops. Innotek has a good collar I hear, but I have a 9 year old collar and it still works good, although I am planning on updating this year. I would also look into spending the extra money and buying a beeper trainer in one. A beeper is almost a necessity, there are times in heavy cover that a beeper will help you find a dog on point.

Good luck and Happy Hunting