Hi I have been using a Dovo 5/8ths 'best quality' for a year and a half now.

I shave about every 3 days.

I've noticed that the razor pulls a bit even after stropping - I'm guessing that I need to hone it and was planning on using some japanese stones that I own (Probably just the 8k(12k) : http://straightrazorpalace.com/hones...ml#post1357348 ).

I'll have a look at videos on how to do it but sharpen quite a few things so should be ok.

HOWEVER! I was thinking of trying a new razor....

I'd like to get a new razor so that if I mess up the honing on the old one then I am not left without a razor. Also I'd quite like to try something different and I would like some advice on what to consider.

I think that my beard is pretty coarse and thick - what would be good to try for a stiff/thick beard that is only shaved every 3 days or so?

I am keen to stay with a rounded tip like on the Dovo (I think).

I don't need anything fancy - just functional - I'd like to explore a new razor to see if I can improve on the Dovo 5/8ths and the ease of shave.

I have managed to keep the carbon steel blade in good order on the Dovo - carbon or stainless for the new one?!
(There are a lot of powdered stainless steels around - VG10 / Elmax / CPM S35VN / CPM M4 / ZDP-189 etc - have these been used for razors?)

Thanks for any advice.
Ed