[AdamJoshua]

As a lot of people pointed out buying samplers online etc., is a good thing, gives you a chance to buy an assortment and try one of each, they are usually fairly cheap as well so if you get a stick you just don't like at all it's not a huge waste of cash.

I've found most B&M guys (and gals) are really helpful, just tell them what you like and they'll usually point you to a few different sticks that they think you'd enjoy and tell you about them, it's a great way to learn, don't feel bad about being a noob we all are to some degree.