I vote GShock
I've had one since 2008 and I've only change the battery 1 time and that was just because it had been 5 years so I did it out of a preventative maintenance thing,
It's been around the world and beet up pretty good and still ticks.
I have the bodyguard w laser. Factory trigger sucks...
And honestly if I was to get another one id go without the laser. Not very practical in my opinion.
If you call 3hrs nearby lol....
They do have a machine gun night shoot coming up.
http://www.fortgordon.com/programs/leisure/outdoor/outdoor-rec/shooting-range/
Generally speaking you're right. But most larger posts are open to hunting (slug guns) and even fort Gordon has a public range. I believe it goes out to 800yds.
Concealed carry is a no go though.
We had one guy who was pleasantly plump that I thought was going to die from the bounding still...
I would suggest being in as good of shape as you can be. Not just for a class but for life in general.
Physical fitness is the cheapest prep you can have for when it does hit the fan.