I own a Glock 23, and it's a very reliable firearm. I hope I never have to fire it in anger, but have it and go to the range and practice regularly.
Buying guns legally in the States, you have to go to a local gun shop, where they do a background check before you can take it home. Thats a federal database to make sure your not wanted or a crazy person. You can buy online, but they dont ship to your door. It has to go to a FFL, federally lisenced firearm dealer, and you can pick it up there.