Welcome to ham radio!

I want to say that the BTech Baofeng radios are not the easiest to understand or program (my experience) And CHIRP software isn't the greatest either. So, don't let it get you down and out of ham radio. I'm not saying that you should go buy anything different, just that other radios are usually easier than BTech Baofeng. (strange logic and key functions on those radios!)

The unmentioned shop you stopped at, will have different types of folks working there. Some more helpful than others. Much like some gun shops I can think of.

As for CB Radio and off roading, there are some mobile/handheld options that utilize the FRS/GMRS which are channelized. https://www.ruggedradios.com

Post up questions and I'm sure a couple of us will do our best to help.