Mountain bike gear shifters

[Surly LHT]

What kind of Mountain bike gear shifters do I need to use? I am thinking about building my self a nice little Mountain bike some time this year. I have most of the parts but I am lost on the gear shifters I need to use. It will have a 9 speed rear cassette on the back and a three chain ring on the front. I would like to keep it as cheap as I could but heck if I have to spend a little more than I would like to then I will. I have seen them from about 10.00 and up. I have been told it would be better built if I use a 8 speed rear if thats all it can handle then I want build one. My 9 speed cassette has 11-34 good range and the front is 22,32,44t chain ring set so if anyone knows what will work with it let me know thanks.

[cyclerUK]

Get the same make as your derailleurs and cassette. ie Shimano for Shimano etc.
You obviously also need to make sure they are the same speed as your cassette. ie 9 speed cassette then 9 speed shifter. The same with the front.
Have a look at some MTBs to see which style/type you prefer.

[MrTrickles]

http://www.chainreactioncycles.com

Search "9 speed rear shifter"

Arrange by price and choose the one that suits you best, then search again for your front shifter.