I went through the same thing. I decided to just go for it and if I didn't like it I could always sell the thing. So far so good, and I'm still shaving with my first razor, an inexpensive Dovo.

I know I made the right decision now, and keep in mind when you buy a "real" straight razor the expense is often in the scales. The same blade can vary $100 (US) and the only difference is asthetics.