First Cycle ever give me your thoughts?

Current stats: 5'8 205 (powerlifter build 20-25% BF)

Bench - 275 Squat - 365 DL - Unknown

Running 250mg of Test E for around 12 weeks

PCT When done running

Currently running finasteride (not a steroid but wanting to somewhat preserve hair)

My questions are

Do i get my bloods done with quest a panel is only 70 bucks or is there anybody who is better bang for your buck?

Any needle recs??

Would be better to pin every other day or just twice a week?

What are some signs that you're not responding well (sick a lot, lots of sides) what can be determining factors to tell yourself to come off

Do you guys think that 250mg is too safe or too little of a first cycle

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Would love all the feedback and any tips!