Hi, I'm Michael. I've always thought a straight razor was one of the coolest things ever. I'm finally going to give all this a shot. Here's where I need help. It's the typical newbie "what should I get" question. I've read a lot about new and used, and how they need to be honed before you even think about using it. I know I need a strop. I have a cheap brush, mug, soap set to start out with. I'm stuck at the razor buying stage right now. I'm not one to go buy the plain Jane, run of the mill anything, but I also have to find the best possible deal on anything I buy. Basically I'm stuck between a new $120 or so razor vs. maybe something a little cheaper used, with honing bringing them up to about the same price. I've read a lot of lists about good old razors to get. I have a few I'm watching on eBay now. Basically, my first question is simple. Is Peter J. Michels a good brand? It's the only one I'm watching that I don't remember reading about. Thank you sirs for your help.