Don't worry about it, unless you're going to try and multi-class (LOL) or game the trading system (not worth it at that level).
As for the companion, you can always switch 'em up, if you didn't find the one you were wanting. You aren't exactly stuck with the first one that comes out to play.
As for open-versus-sniping, I may be wrong, but I'm fairly certain the sniping ranger skillset is very TP-heavy, and doesn't leave room for too much else. Of course, I don't play a sniping ranger, so I may be completely off base, and if I am, I'm sure someone will throw a tomato my way to show it. :P
~Crazy Cat Lady, Player of Cylnthia~