So I'm in the northeast and there's not much gun culture here. I fired a gun twice in my life, in the early 90's. The ease with which Seattle's police department was overtaken by a violent mob has me a bit concerned.
Does anyone have any recommendations for proper training and weapon selection to defend against a similar situation happening near me? I'm concerned that "antifa" will rampage through MY neighborhood and deny ME the right to live as an American.
Well, having taken to firearms enthusiasm late in life, in the last 5 years, I have a few thoughts to offer. Of course, your mileage may vary, but these are just my observations and experiences.
The 'proper' firearm: Try a bunch of different ones (lots of ranges have rentals to try out), and pick the one that you are most comfortable using. For me it was a Glock 9mm. For you, it may very well be a .357 revolver. Everyone's different. Find yours.
The 'proper' training: Definitely take the time and training to qualify for a CPL (Concealed Pistol License). The training (knowledge) is invaluable for safety even if you don't plan on carrying a firearm on a frequent basis (I don't carry at all, strictly range shooting), and it often makes the process of the actual acquisition of a pistol far easier (less hassle running from FFL [Federal Firearms License dealer] to the police and back again). You show the FFL your CPL, write a check or CC, and it's yours, walk out the store, exactly like any other purchase, and it should be such.
Practice, practice, practice: Both for safety's sake and for proficiency with the firearm tool (which is it).
Start out with the pistol at a 20' target. Once you consistently put 9 out of 10 rounds in the black, move that target further out 5 more feet, and achieve it again. Repeat. I'm at hitting 9 out of 10 in the black at 35' now.
The logic: At 20' an assailant is a mere 4 seconds from you at a run. That's only 2 rounds, maybe 3. Move that assailant out 10 more feet, gain 2 more seconds and as many rounds. Because you aren't going to hit 9 out of 10 in that situation. You really do need those 2 or 3 more seconds.
I try to get out to the range at least 1 to 2 hours every 4 - 6 weeks. The COVID lock down has made that nearly impossible, but starting to open up now, so I'm looking forward to this safe activity at the controlled, State outdoor rage soon. It's been a long time. Too long.
Rifles? I built myself an AR-15 from parts (not that hard for the mechanically inclined), chambered in 5.56 (so I can use 2.23 in it as well - but rarely do), and am still working on zeroing in the scope at 100 yards again looking for that 9 out of 10 in the black, but it's not easy, really it isn't! - but it's a lot of fun honing those skills, at least for me.
Ammo? There are a number of online stores that will sell and ship (always ground so not quick) at good prices. Ammo that doesn't cause your firearms to jam or miss-feed are the ones to keep re-ordering.
At this point, I'm starting to consider a Glock chambered in 45, but that's a significant 'investment' for the procurement, so I dunno right now. Maybe.
It really is like most any other hobby. Part skill development. Part wise and prudent spending. Part what you are interested in getting out of it.