I stumbled on to this forum a few years back and decided I would return when I was shaving on a more regular basis. Well my face still grows in patchy, but I shave almost daily, and I am ready to turn it into an art

I am a computer engineering student who hails from the great state of NJ and studies in OH. I turned 21 two weeks ago which not only means that I may now legally partake in fine libations, but I have also acquired some funds to invest in a proper straight razor setup. I have a passion for working with my hands being both a hobbiest woodworker and machinist, I am hoping to add straight shaving to that list!

Now...I have read just about every page in the Library section, but I think read myself in circles rather than striking the exact answers I was looking for, so I thought I would reach out to the experts directly.

I was thinking of getting a 5/8 round/blunt point razor, but beyond that I'm stuck. I know I should expect that I am not going to be able to maintain my razor perfectly the first go around, but what does that mean in terms of the quality razor I should be purchasing? Should I expect to purchase something with patina rather than something shiny (as long as it is honed properly)? Should I trust myself to strop with something more abrasive than leather i.e. balsa with high grit? What else should I REALLY purchase that is not in the short list of items? (Somewhat Random) How are razor purchases and accessory kits from WhippedDog viewed? What else should I be asking?

Thank you in advanced!