While cleaning out my garage I found an old straight razor. Alls it has on it is Hamburg Ring inscribed in the blade and an engraving of 3 happy looking dudes on the shank. My guess is that it is worthless.

Never the less, It makes me want to learn to shave with a straight razor. I know I have to get it honed, but here is my question... Should I buy a hone and learn to do it myself, or should I get this razor honed and learn to shave with it?

I plan to buy a razor in the future but I just don't know when.

I have been searching the internet and researching the topic, now I want to act. But I need help getting started.

Assuming that everyone is going to tell me to get the razor honed and use it for learning (mind you, it is a bit rusted but I don't think it is enough to kill me) I need to know where and what to buy.

I want to learn to shave before I go to college in september.
Since I will be living in a dorm, I think I will need a paddle strop. Should I get paste and skip buying a separate honing stone?

Also, where can I get a good starter kit with a paddle strop and brush and mug.

I realize this is an investment and I do have money and a job, but I still want to stay away from higher end stuff. I will accept buying used items and shell out an extra dollar if there is a significant quality difference.

Am I missing anything.

Your help will be greatly appreciated and thanks in advance