Reddit mentions of Payne Bros Custom Knives Variety Pack of 5 Wood Scales, 5 INCH, for Knife Making - Gun grps - Craft Supplies (VP18)

I want to say good job for not questioning it and supporting his hobby! The Damascus blank is fine many knifes don’t have pins he just needs to scratch the tang first and it will be good. I really like knives without pins sometimes. A hand drill could ad holes if need be. Both are good blanks. The handle woods a bit boring in my opinion and I found some exotic wood blanks that are much more interesting and pretty in my opinion but everyone has their own taste. It’s a bit more expensive but good woods. 150$ will get him the basic tools and that’s fine because he can get better tools as he progresses with the craft. Good luck! That should be a great start