I'm thinking sbout starting a tank with some Cichilids and I'm up for suggestions about which ones that I should get and how big the tank should be or if I could use an old 10 gallon tank that I have just lying around.
I would like to try and breed them.

cichlids, depending the species will grow very large. 10G is ok for a 1" cichlid, but he will grow, and fast. If you are new to aquarium life, I do not suggest a cichlid, I love them myself, but do not have the room for them. They require, space, hiding spots, plants, swimming area, variety of foods, and much more. Keep in mind they are and can be tempermental. :lol:
If you decide to go with cichlids, I will (as soon as I find out how), send you snails?
not the pond ones. :D

Try a pair of rams, They would be perfect in that 10 gallon. Its just that they are more hard to care for then bigger cichlid :P

Lamprologus multifaciatus are dwarf shell dwelling cichlids and you could put a male and a few females in a 10 gallon. Just provide plenty of shells. They sell for quite a bit and breed like CRAZY. Prepare for the initial shock of getting them, though. If you do get some breeding pairs, most LFS will take them off your hands and give you a little to boot at that. You could always trade for supplies or cash.