Welcome.

Also, there are some vintage razors available in the Classifieds in the 50-60 USD range from our fellow members.
As for the the alum block vs styptic pencil, personally I use the pencil because it's easier to handle and to get to the spot in trouble. I don't use the alum block as some here do to tone the skin after the shave.
Quoting thebigspendur:
"There are two types of alum block. Potassium and Ammonium. The potassium is what we usually use on our face. The usual Styptic pencil contains other ingredients to specifically stop bleeding which the block does not contain. I usually use the block by rubbing it all over my face after shaving after the cold water rinse and then add a lot of witchazel afterwards. The block acts as a skin toner but once on it quickly does its job and once dry just leaves a film on your skin you don't need."

Have fun