I am looking to get my first razor. I have read somewhere (in the FAQ, I think) that a used vintage razor that is honed and shave-ready is a better starter than a new factory razor.

I would like to get a nice razor, but after I have one I am happy with, the chances I will start collecting are small, I think. I am trying to decide if my first razor should be something cheaper I would replace after I learned to use it or if I should just go ahead and get something I think I would like permanently.

Right now I am considering

this 6/8 Oxford:
6/8 Oxford - Straight Razor Place Classifieds

vs.

this NOS with abalone:
Vintage Blades LLC::Vintage Straight Razors::New Old Stock (NOS)::New Old Stock Revisor 5/8" Round Point with Custom Scales - Abalone LVS ***Shave Ready***

$250 to $300 is definitely the upper limit of my price range right now.

Also, if I get a nice razor, is it a mistake to get a cheap strop with it, or does that not matter?