Hello to all. What a great forum!

Here's my question: I have experience day hiking in CA and US/Canadian Rockies and lots of camping but no thru-hiking. I am itching to do some of the PCT and wondered where people would send me to get an auspicious and not too painful beginning. I've heard Oregon is the way to go, but something in Northern CA would be more convenient for me.

Also, how would you recommend I spend my limited budget for ultralight equipment? Tent first? Pack? Boots?

Thanks for the help.