Quote Originally Posted by Raiontzukai View Post
I will try a hanging strop at some point, but right now I live in a rented house and even my bathroom's doorknob is a bit flimsy.
There has to be something sturdy in your house. For example my strops are hanging on the towel rack, doorknob doesn't seem a good place for me to start with. I just think that most people preferring hanging strop is not a coincidence.

Quote Originally Posted by Raiontzukai View Post
Say my budget is large enough but I don't want to be wasteful, how much should I expect to pay for one of these hones, either new or used?
yes no need to buy stuff you don't need. the only problem is that there is a lot of options and it is a matter of preference, so it's a catch-22.
Norton is the most popular hone and excellent value. If you want a better option for more money, get shaptons. If you want just one hone or want natural option get a coticule, possibly with a belgian blue backing (may have to go vintage for that).
Barber hones are generally hard to lap if you need to, esp. if they have chips, which being ceramics is rather common. I've sold some of my swatys for $20-$25, best bet is to get it from a member who has a lapping plate so that you hit the ground running.