If you want to model something right off hand without having to figure out a cryptic tome and develop a "modeling process" (ie: learn where all the tools are hidden, etc.), go with Wings. Not much in the way of a renderer though - but I use my trusty ol' Bryce for that. As far as renderers go, Bryce is simple enough to use for a beginner w/o much book learnin' (uses a visual and intuitive interface) and it's powerful enough for more when one goes to push it and learn its secrets.

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Barbequed Pixels?

Your friendly neighborhood Wings3D nut.
Also feel free to browse my freebies at ShareCG.
There might be something worth downloading.