Hello Todd,
First take a look at trapshooters.com. Lots of opinions on everything.
For a gun I would look at Remington or Beretta auto loader. I shoot both and the Beretta is less prone to parts breakage but I shoot the Remington better and can fix anything that poops out in less than 5 minutes. Remington makes a left handed auto and Beretta doesn't but I have lefty friends who shoot right handed auto loaders. If you want to try a break open gun buy a Browning BT-99. The auto loader barrels should be 30" and full chokes.
The BT-99 should be 34" and shoot full also. Wallmart Ammo is fine for what you will be doing as a starter. I like the Federal 4 pack that sells for around $4 a box.
Stay with 3 dram or less 1 1/8 oz. of 7 1/2 or 8. Estate is a brand that is making a good name for itself around here and sells for about $3.50 per box.
When you get your gun the first thing you should do is get someone to make the gun fit you. This is crtical and will save you tons of frustration. The gun when properly mounted needs to shoot where you are looking because you do not look at the barrel or beads directly when shooting clays. The big issue is comb height and you want the gun to shoot a bit high for point of impact. I shoot a 60/40 pattern and that is considered a flat shooter.
Good luck,
Harry
