Well, you all certainly have given me lots to think about. Lots of factual info and your opinions that I value. I also picked up Garrett Hack's Hand Plane book for further insight. Good stuff in there.
But Jay is right, I will learn the most as I experiment with this process, which I am anxious to begin. You threw me curve Jay, bringing up those bevel-up bad boys from LV! Hadn't given those much consideration, but now I must investigate those! But as it looks now, I'm leaning towards either the standard 4-1/2 or 5-1/2. With two strong votes for Veritas. I sincerely thank everyone that has taken time out of their busy day to share their experience and wisdom.