I didn't buy a set when I started and always felt that if I did enough homework I would be able to put a set together that meet my needs much better. I would suggest you do the same. If you want to make a gift list for someone just past the web address into a Word doc or email to them when complete.

Read the Main Page - Straight Razor Place Wiki to find brands to buy and brands to avoid. There is a lot of good information in the WIKI to help you select. a blade and brush. This section will show some of the member reviews Reviews - Straight Razor Place Forums .

I have a Vulfix badger brush from Vintage Blades LLC that went for under $30. There are some members that sell WAPI blades which would be on the less expensive side of the equation. Be sure the razor is shave ready or you will need to have it sharpened (suggested over honing yourself for your first razor). The classified section is a good place to look but the deals go very fast and it would be hard to suggest that to someone for a gift search. For a strop there is nothing better than a Tony Miller Heirloom but you may find cheaper.