Start by checking out some fencing storesclose to your shipping zone. In this case, California. Otherwise any place you go, the shipping will be slightly more expensive. There are local clubs in Alaska, Anchorage and Juno come to mind, and you may want to look at some equip before you decide to purchase. If the club will allow you to order through them, then you may be able to see your equip before you purchase. If you do plan to purchase on-line, start by looking at the major dealers and avoid E-bay.
Here are some sites:
American Fencers Supply, San Francisco, CA:
www.amfence.com
The Fencing Post, Escondido, CA:
www.thefencingpost.com
Physical Chess, Union, NJ:
www.physicalchess.com
Triplette Competition Arms, Elkin, NC:
www.triplette.com
PBT Fencing, Hungary:
www.pbtfencing.com
you may also check out some of the smaller dealers, one of which posts this board. AKA purple fencer.
HOM Fencing, Panorama City, CA:
www.homfencing.com
The major suppliers all have starters and in reasonable price ranges. But if you are the physical type like I am, the best time to go see equipment would be at the NAC's. (I personally drove to San Francisco to get my equipment from AFS.)
Anyway, best of luck....