I found eBay good once you know what you want and if you don't have too much cash!
Ebay can be good. But I would never recommend it. The chances of buying crap, or badly worn bocks is too high. If it's ebay or nothing then go for it. But be careful.
Best bocks for a beginner are projumps. Great price and service. Don't bother with powerisers. If you got the budget then you might look at 7's.
Get along to some meets. Everybody is nice and we have a laugh. I dont know where your closest group is. But lol. Just got to a meet. Halloween bock in london should be a good one with people traveling from everywhere to go.
And...welcome to the forum