Definitely spend time at the range!!!!

Having a weapon is one thing...knowing how to use it is quite another.

I strongly suggest you BOTH take a few classes from the NRA or a local gun club who teaches the proper use of the handgun. Complete and total familiarity is imperative to keeping yourself secure. The slightest hesitation can be the difference between living and dying.

Not to be too overbearing, and I'm all for gun rights, but I feel there's far too many people who are armed without the proper training to handle the weapons they carry.

If utilizing the weapon in the proper way is not second nature to you then you have a far greater chance of doing more harm than good.

Again, not to preach, and I'm sure you're aware of this Franc, but you can never have too much time at the range familiarizing yourself with your firearm.