You can start to do your own research and training any time. Start by reading. Get a good bush medicine book and read it.

I'd honestly buy a lower or two right now and then build from there your AR. Keep your smith as a few ARs are good to have. Personally i am a yuge fan of palmetto state armory.

As to training go with pistol. It's the hardest to master and the one gun you can always have under your golden girls t shirt and rhodesian short shorts. Many of the things you can apply to pistol training apply to rifle as most shootings in self defense are close range. Plus the rifle is inherently easier to shoot.

And fuck no it's no sin to cook a burger in a pan. Real talk? Get a burger weight. Makes a huge difference in well shaped juicy burgers.