There is a console command for it press "~" then type: addreputation F X Y - Set player reputation with faction. (F = faction ID, X = 0/infamy or 1/fame, Y = amount) For you F would represent NRC (F43DE) X= 1 Y= any amount you wish
Well I'd imagine you would need blender, Gimp 2 and probably DDS converter 2. I'm not entirely sure on that, but I'd start there. Also read the GECK wiki there might be some information on making Armour there.
Just firing the gun alone should not increase the skill, although if you could make an equation for accuracy (the game may already have one) for say X shots fired and X shots hit then you could base it off of that but just firing the gun alone shouldn't increase the skill.