I'm also hoping to minimilize the size of my honing equipment. The idea of having one stone do it all is very appealing. I don't think I'll really need to set the bevel on my razors for a while anyways. They're all shave ready so unless I truly mess up the edge or nick it, it should be good for a LONG time simply using the coticule and the blue when the yellow no longer suffices.

I'd also like to stay away from the cr0 as much as possible.

Recently I've been using some plain newspaper as well after the cr0. It sure gives a very sharp edge but I think it might also be a bit harsh on my skin.

Would going back to the cr0 for a few passes get rid of the harshness or would simply intense stropping doing it?

thanks,

JF