This is my first post and after several days of reading..... I have decided to try using a straight razor.

First of all, I have a problem with ingrown hairs, especially after a close shave. Will going straight improve this condition at all?

Second, I am starting completely from zero... I have some foam in a can I could smear on my face and even some of the gell kind that is best at clogging my multiblade razor. Other than that, I will need to buy everything.

I read in the wiki that Zeepk is to be avoided and have seen that reinforced in a couple other posts but I found a deal on ebay that seems too good to pass up.
Zeepk Straight Razor Strop Soap Stone Mug Bursh 38 set - eBay (item 280303609300 end time Jan-20-09 17:05:53 PST)
Item # 280303609300 - The auction may be over before anyone reads this but there will probably be another.

I understand the razor is junk, but look at everything that is included for the price. Would this be a smart buy to start out? Looks like this would include everything I need to start out for under $50. Seems like a good deal but what do I know?

As for the razor, is it bad because it won't hold an edge for a long time, maybe needing honed every week rather than every year or is there a bigger issue? Would it be good to practice honing on a cheap razor before getting a good one and ruining it? If it needs honed more often, more practice right? Or am I just crazy.

Please don't take this as me ignoring all the advice I have already gotten here. My question is mainly is will the cost represent a good value for everything but the razors and should I worry about things like wanting to practice on a cheap razor.

I am already guessing that the included stone is not going to be that great and I will probably have to spend another $100 on hones.

I do plan on buying a shave ready razor from the classifieds as soon as I am fast enough to catch a good deal.

Scott