I’d suggest starting with a chosen project and discover what tools you need to complete it. I’ve made the mistake in the past of seeing a particular tool and thinking it would be really useful only to have it sit on the shelf and eventually be given away. In terms of brands, having worked in the building trade for some years I found Makita a good balance between cost and quality. But now retired and with more time to get back into woodworking I’ve been setting up a new workshop and splashed out on several Festool power tools which are lovely to use. Hand tools include Axminster;s Rider planes and a fair bit of Japanese stuff - chisels and saws in particular. I’ve found all of this gear very good and a pleasure to use. BUT, don’t forget the sharpening - a chisel or plane with a razor edge is a joy to use, but if blunt . . . . ! I’d really recommend the Veritas honing guide, Japanese waterstones and a couple of Axminster’s non-slip holders. Mine include a 400, 800, 4000 and 8000 grit staone: not cheap, but essential!
