Ray, what kind of budget are you gonna be working with? Entry level bikes are gonna start around $300-$350, but I would take a few steps up from that if you really actually want to ride them seriously on the trail. Look at spending around $450-500 on a solid ride. Unfortunately, shipping a bike is rather costly (because of the weight and size of the box) so you would be much better off riding a few different bikes at local shops.
Thanks for the advice! I was planning to spend around $500 or so on a decent hardtail with just a front fork. At that price range, are the disk brakes that come with the bikes worth the extra money, or should I stick with standard stuff? I remember reading somewhere that unless you were spending a few grand on a bike that chances are the disk brakes aren't going to be that great. Could be wrong though..