Hi Bob! Welcome to SRP!!!
I would make the same recommendations that Doc made.
You asked about high carbon steel (HCS) versus Stainless. This is also a personal decision for folks. They both have the capability to shave equally well given appropriate honing, stropping and face preparation. For all intent and purposes, they will last the same amount of time - generations.
The HCS is a bit easier to hone than the Stainless. On the other hand, once you get a great edge on a stainless, it is possiblle that it may last longer before honings. Of course, the HCS will need to be protected from rust a bit more diligently.
I like both types but happen to have quite a few more HCS blades than stainless.