I've never seen a starter kit of any kind (from cookware to woodworking to flytying ) that actually made much sense. Far too often the contents are very inferior (what good is anything if it breaks right away, or doesn't do the job it's supposed to)and are things you don't want or won't use.

You'd be surprised at how little cookware you need when first starting out. Before buying anything---new or used---give some thought to what you think you'll really need. Go out and get the high priority stuff right away. Then keep a running list of things to add.

For instance, start with one graduated measuring cup. If you're on a budget, go with plastic. If not, check out the newer stainless ones. Maybe that's all you need. But if it turns out you are happier with individual cups instead, you can always fill in with them later.

Even the basics can be pretty slim. How many skillets do you need? How many saucepans? Initially, one of each should serve your needs (for starters, an 8 or 10 inch skillet and a 2 qt. saucepan) until you develop your own style. Then if you need more, go get 'em.

There is no need to spend a lot of money on place settings. Dishes and flatware are available everywhere at relatively low prices. And the selection is much better than you'd get in those kits. Check out the china at Walmart, for instance.

The long and the short of it is this: You can outfit a starter kitchen for well under a hundred bucks, with better quality stuff, stuff that you'll actually use, then you'll find in a kit. That's the route I'd take.