You're right, there isn't really a 'try before you buy' option, unless you qualify for an employment based visa maybe?
I wouldn't plan to stay for 6 months, that might raise red flags but also if you get stuck for some reason (i.e. you're ill or can't get a flight - remember that Iceland volcano that erupted a few years ago and grounded all flights for quite some time?), then you don't want to risk overstaying. So plan a bit less, take lots of proof of ties to your home country (ideally leave of absence from a job if you have one, property, etc), proof of funds, and a return ticket.
Ideally stay out of the US for as long as you were in before trying to return i.e. if you stayed for 5 months, then be outside of the US for 5 months before you go back. You could try entering again sooner, but it would be risky.
Good luck.