text: Since you're a beginner and not interested in self defense I would recommend the Ruger MKII or MKIII for a variety of reasons.\n\n1.) It takes .22 LR rounds which are extremely cheap.  Approximately $90 for 2500 rounds in the U.S.\n\n2.) It has low recoil which is good for a novice.\n\n3.) It has safety features that are not found on other guns.  Such as not allowing the gun to go off when the magazine has been removed; an internal locking device; and a round chambered indicator.  Which is good for a novice.\n\n4) It's an accurate gun good for competition shooting.\n\n5.) It has adjustable sights which is good for competition shooting.\n\n6.) It already comes which a weaver style mount so you can mount a scope on it if you'd like.  Which is good for competition shooting.\n\n7.) This gun is affordable anywhere from $229-310\n\nReviews for the Ruger MKII: \n\nhttp://www.chuckhawks.com/dktaylor.htm\nhttp://mywebpages.comcast.net/shooter2_indy/mk2.html\n\nReviews for the MK III\n\nhttp://www.gunblast.com/Ruger_MarkIII-Hunter.htm\n\n\nSo in conclusion I think that the Ruger MK II or MK III would make a good target gun for a novice shooter.