Hey Isaac:

Welcome aboard!!

If I may speak to the strop question.

You need to learn to strop on your own as it is probably even more important than shaving itself (strop poorly and ruin an edge = not a good shave regardless of how good your shaving technique is)

I don't know the videos you've watched on YouTube but we have plenty of people here who can help you for much cheaper than an AoS barber

I think the Illionois strops are good but you might want to check out Tony Miller's strops at www.thewellshavedgentleman.com He has a great variety in differing price ranges and all are of the highest quality. You might PM him or call him and talk with him first so he can recommend something that will be right for you. (Just give him a few days - he just went to the beach )

Also, give consideration to Lynn's DVD. It has a wealth of information on strops and hones and how to use each of them. Plus, it contains a whole bunch of other great information.

I can't speak to the rust issue, sorry.

Anyway, dive in and have much fun!!