With shaving being such a personal preference type of hobby, especially when it comes to straight razors, you might be better off getting him a gift certificate for SRD, that way he may research and choose the particular razor, strop, soaps, and brush to his liking. I know it seems kind of impersonal, but him being able to chose may make his experience all the more special, take the time to maybe even show him this site, the information, and impart on him what information you have received here as to the good brands and what a truly shave ready razor is. You being able to teach him something might be more of a gift to him than the razor itself. Who knows, maybe someday you too will join the ranks of straight razor shavers...