Thanks markevans! I did not expect such and in depth answer to my questions. I have been dealing with one particular site that seems more personable than the rest i have come across. (not that the others are bad, i just prefer the one i am using).

So here's what i have come up with as a "beginner set to begin my learning experience"

-Dovo 6/8 half-hollow "best quality" carbon steel razor.

-2" latigo razor strop

-razor oil.

I do have one or two more questions despit flipping back and forth on the wiki.
I understand that as a beginner honing should be out of the question for me. So should i look into those diamond sprays/chomium pastes to "re-sharpen" the razor? And if so do i need a separate strop for this process? I also think i am going to order the Lynn Abrams dvd.

I cant stop browsing on this forum with all this information! I appreciate the quick and welcoming responses i have received thus far!