#1 With very few exceptions, the razor doesn't much matter. Barring Pakistani (or other identifiable) junk, or poorly ground/tempered blades, you should be able to hone each one to at least 99% of your favorite straight. Unless you have a great affinity for particular styles (8/8, Wedges, etc.)

#2 The (final) hone doesn't (with some exceptions) matter. More exceptions here though. Nani 12k, Gokumyo, my Escher, half of my coticules -- I can get 99% out of any good blade. This means some of my coticules, and other "finishers" e.g. PHIG are inferior. Of course, experimenting will identify the exact best stone for that razor to get it to 100%, but it's a very marginal thing.

Other experiences?