What you absolutely need first (for straight razoring)?

[Fanglekai]

I have one of these: http://www.crabtree-evelyn.com/eng/...n-jagger/ivory_best_badger_shave_brush?130291

They were discontinued years ago but I got it for around $35. Crazy value.

 

[FortyTwoBlades]

Link is broken. But I think that's one of the ones I have.

 

[David Martin]

Gov., I like my Van Der Hagen top grade boar brush. Its made in Texas and loads up well. Holding lots of lather. A good brush for not much money. DM