Is there a way to see some kind of stats on the various weapons for easy comparison

I just researched the laser pistol and rifle but I'm not sure if there's a trade off anywhere to my conventional weapons

Also how do I tell what class my soldiers are going to become is it based on how they are used in a mission while they are rookies.

You need to make one first unfortunately, then go to the barracks and there should be a prompt on the item to see details. The weapons pretty much operate on a tier system though, so lasers are always better than basic weapons etc. And classes are just random (although somewhat tilted towards classes you lack according to Jake Solomon).

On 360, in the load out screen, you can press the left stick on a weapon, and it will list a weapons damage, critical damage, and its critical chance. It will also say a description and any specific trade offs. Don't know what button it's be on the other versions.

@Kyelb22 said:

On 360, in the load out screen, you can press the left stick on a weapon, and it will list a weapons damage, critical damage, and its critical chance. It will also say a description and any specific trade offs. Don't know what button it's be on the other versions.

That.

If you're on PC, when equipping the item there's a small image on the bottom left of the item picture. Click that for the stats.

Thanks for the info I wish I could class select taking my only sniper into the field makes me nervous

@Garris said:

Thanks for the info I wish I could class select taking my only sniper into the field makes me nervous

You can choose what troops you take on missions. I forget what it says, but the option under the edit option when in the squad select screen. It removes that squadmate and clicking the empty slot will bring up a list of all soldiers. Anyone notes as "Active" you can choose to bring with you.