I had to go back and read the original post to get the real point of this thread.

Yes, initially it is confusing. Do I need a strop, paddle strop, oxide do-dads, hones, coticules, Belgians (no one wants one of them) etc and how can I invest in the magic art of honing ?.

It would also be too easy to spend a fortune on all of the bits and pieces some of the more dedicated and experienced straight shaving members have only to confuse you more and more than likely put you off before you start.

But want and need are two different things.

You need a shave ready razor (coz you don't know yet how to hone).
You need a strop to keep the edge true.
You need a hone which you will eventually have to know how to use.
And you need some form of shaving cream / soap and a brush to apply it.

Later you will want:-

More razors.
A better strop.
Paddle strops with every colour and grade of paste possible.
More hones than coals sent from Newcastle.
An assortment of soaps, creams and about 20 bald badgers worth of brushes.

Gary...at about stage 3 of the assimilation process.