I'm sure there are a lot of these threads, but I didn't see many on the first few pages of the Newbie Corner, so hopefully nobody will mind this post

I've been using a DE razor for a little over a year. Naturally, I'm curious about shaving with a straight razor, but they seem so expensive. I had decided I was not going to try it, but I can't resist! I want to at least test the waters a bit.

I already have the other materials needed (brush, soap, cream, AS etc), so I think all I need is a razor and a strop. Some folks say to get 2 razors so I can compare the shaves. This makes sense now that I own 8 or so DEs :P Since they all shave different, I'm sure straights are the same in that regard.

So here is my question... What razor and strop should I get?

I'd really like to minimize the cost in case I find shaving with a straight isn't for me. I see some in the classified that are well within my budget, but I have no idea if they are good on their own merits or specifically would be good for a newbie.

I'd prefer to spend no more then ~$50 for a first razor. Are any of the inexpensive razors in the classifieds suitable to learn with?

I've looked at new razors, but they seem to start at $75. They might make a great 2nd razor, but I don't think I want to go that route to start with.

Do I need to get a strop right away? I read some of the threads here about other newbs experience trying to use newspaper (had never heard of that) and it seemed to make a HUGE difference to use a strop. Do people sell used strops sometimes? If not, what would be the most economical strop that would still be functional?

Sorry for such a long first post. After reading threads here for a couple days, this seems like a great community, but I'm suffering a bit of information overload hehe. I have spent some time at Badger & Blade as well, and like the folks there. I think this group is just as nice

Thanks in advance for your advise!!

p.s. there are some great smileys here hehe