Hey Fallon. Any of the good rod and gun clubs in RI can point you in a good direction as to which stores, etc. to go to. There's also a public 50 yard range that is state maintained at Great Swamp. Check out the dem site at
www.dem.ri.gov/topics/wltopics.htm and look at the "Public Shooting Range" section in the lower left.
As far as firearms, my opinion varies. Handguns are awesome in agility, concelement, etc. but I have to agree that for home protection even most Police Officers will tell you that the sound of a shot gun cocking is one of the highest methods of detering an unwanted visitor. It's unmistakable and everyone on the planet pretty much knows what it sounds like. And you don't have to spend big dollars on it if it's just going to sit for that one occasion and a once in a while target time. Any shotgun on the market will illiminate the threat. Just make sure you have the option of several rounds since adreniline will be high if that situation ever occurred.
Now: a qualifier for that situation... children. Handguns are easier to keep out of reach of children in most cases, but either can be if handled properly. But a hand gun can be locked in a small safe by the bed, etc. easier than a shotgun.