Painting - paint brushes?

I'd like to gift a friend of mine with a set of paintbrushes to replace the ones he lost. (He is helping me repaint some rooms and teaching/helping me with repairs as well, and I'd like to express my appreciation since he refuses payment) He speaks fondly of a brand called "Purdy", but I am somewhat bewildered at the vast array of available sizes, types, etc.
Would someone please advise me of a well rounded selection, both oil and latex? Thank you.

Very noble! I would be very flattered if someone was to do that. I am going to suggest 1 oil based black china bristle 3 inch, 1 latex 3 inch, and 1 All Paints 2 1/2 inch sash. Purdy is the brush I use and like.

That would be a good starter, how much $ or how many are wanting to give? I could give a list of a "Pro Pack" so to say, but it would be quite expensive.

Thanks so much for the kind words and the information, Chipfo. I will start with the brushes you mentioned. You have probably saved me several moments of humiliation at the hardware store, now that I know what to purchase. I had a vague idea of $200 or thereabouts, will that be enough? I owe this guy alot, it's been wonderful to have the help, advice and instruction. I have an 1850s house and we pried open windows that I suspect haven't been moved since the Nixon administration, but were probably built during Lincoln's.

I must say, I am positively fascinated with this website and forum. I have learned a great deal reading it this past month or so, so many professionals generous enough to share their expertise. Thank you again.

$200, thats a good round figure, from your description his work with you is well worth it! Below I will list tools important to painters.

Purdy brushes,
1 oil based black china bristle 3 inch
1 oil based black china sash (angled) 2 1/2 or 3 in.
1 latex 3 inch,
1 latex sash 2 1/2 or 3 in
1 All Paints 2 1/2 inch sash
1 sm. artist brush (for touch-ups and hard to reach places, we call them "by-the-hour brushes" lol
1 - 1/2 inch genuine lambskin roller (not simulated)
1 rolling frame
1 rolling screen (bucket screen)
1 wire brush for cleaning paint brushes
1 - 5 in 1 painters tool
1 Olfa knife (or breakaway blade knife)
1 wooden rolling pole (about $6) or extention pole
a hand full of stir sticks, both 1 gallon and 5 gallon size (free)
If thats not quit enough get him a box of rags also, any painter will appreciate!

I hope this helps.

Thanks, it does indeed help.

Chipfo, your suggestions for the "painter's pack" were a HUGE hit! One or two things he hadn't tried before, like the genuine lambskin roller (I had to PRY it from his hand so I could see how well it worked!) He wanted to know "HOW ON EARTH did I ever know what all to get????" Thanks again, Chipfo...you really knew just what a painter would appreciate.

You are welcome, yes the lambskin roller is usually a hit to anyone used to the man-made or simulated rollers, people usually use the others because they are so much cheaper than the lambskin.