A heart welcome to SRP!

A few things to consider. First, if you are brand-spanking new to straight razors I'd like to offer a few suggestions prior to taking off on a rather expensive start. You will need the following to start your quest:

1. SHAVE READY straight razor
2. Strop (hanging is best, but paddle will work)
3. Shave soap/cream (personal preference)
4. Shaving brush (can be had for as little as $5 to well over $200)

A shave ready razor can be had from 3 different sources. The first 2 are the easiest. Either the classifieds (5/8 or 6/8 round point the best to start). Or a starter set from someone like Kenrup (search the Vendor's Corner forum). Last, buy yourself your new razor, then send it to one of honemeister's to get it shave ready for you. (Depending on where you pruchase it it might already come pre-honed and truly shave ready. You can ask here if that is the case.)

You don't really need the hones to start straight razor shaving. But if you really want to get them, you should consider the Norton 4000/8000 and the Chinese hard stone or a coticule. Then you will need some paste (either Chromium Oxide or diamond) as a final polishing agent. A paddle strop works best, but there are other devices too (e.g., linen side of a strop). You should get yourself one or two inexpensive razors from ebay or an antique shop/fair to develop your honing skills. The shave ready razor can be used to compare your honed edge against.

Last, but not least, read through the wealth of information in the forums here. You will have the benefit of learning other people's experiences. You might also get a copy of Lynn's CD. It a great investment for the novice...