Where to start with HBG / LBG?

Hi there

Gunlance player here who also dabbles in CB, SA, and SnS. I'm looking to pick up HBG or LBG. What's a good all-round weapon to start with in 3.0?

I played Spread HBG with a Shield in World and I found it was a load of fun. But I've been reading around that LBG is so close to HBG in terms of damage in Rise that HBG isn't all that great. Also: are the new Shrapnel and Elemental Pierce Ammo any good ?

Also I'm seeing a ton of Sticky players online. Is Sticky meta for bowguns right now?