The thought process behind your friend's answer is understandable, but there really isn't any correlation to be made between 1 or 2-piece metal bats and wood bats.
What I would suggest is for you to try a composite bat that will usually be very well balanced and that will allow you to learn how to hit with wood without breaking too many bats. Their feeling isn't quite like an actual wood bat, but it's a very start.
My other suggestion would be that you go with a model that is well balanced like a 271 or 141. It will be easier to swing than a bat that has a bigger barrel and will have a lesser risk of breaking if you get jammed or hit one off the end of the bat.
I agree with JCG that maple offers a better feeling in general. But that is really for you to test!