Welcome to the forum Parker!
One thing you will find is that we all have different opinions, but you will also find that we all have your best interest in mind. My recommendation to you is get yourself a good starter
strop like a "filly" over at
www.ruprazor.com or the likes of a Big Mama or Big Daddy from the bay as I have heard good about them, a
shave brush like a Vanderhagen or tweezerman, quality
shave soap (Proraso would be a great foundation soap for you).
I have given specific recommendations because of all of the junk out there. Feel free to contact me in about anything straight razor related & I'll do what I can to keep you out of the ditch. .
You noticed I didn't mention a razor.
You get these three underlined things & show me you have them, (I will request a pic with a particular background of my choice like a newspaper) I will provide you with your first properly honed vintage razor.