Welcome to it!! I would suggest saving a bit more and getting some thing new in the $5-900 range if you can. In any of the big companies you will get into some better components and more reliable frame and fork builds. I remember way back when I bought my first official MTB I held out and saved up, and I was glad I did. 22 years later, that bike (1994 Trek Mountain Track 830) has been everywhere with me. I have rode it like a BMX bike, on singletrack, and as a commuter, and it has never failed me. Obviously I have had to replace the typical parts that wear out, but I still have and use the original fork (non-suspension), rims, handlebars and frame. I would compare the bikes in the range I listed to be comparable…and probably even better for the buck…to my bike. Just last week I “upgraded” to a Surly Krampus after 22 years b/c I wanted to try something new. My old bike will now become my designated commuter.
Hope this helps! Be safe and be brave!