Bicycle Tutor

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.

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.

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.