Bowl gouges. Questions

I am new at bowl turning. My current bowl gouges are the Benjamin Best that I want to upgrade. I also have a few Sorby tools, skews, hollowers, spindlemaster scraper and the spiraling tool. I also have the red handle HF chisel set. My lathe is a PM 90 that I am thinking of raising for 18" swing next year.

1. Bowl gouges, I think I need a 1/2" and 5/8". Do I need more (I have a Crown 3/8")

2. I am guessing I should get the "V" instead of the "U" shape? Do I need both?

3. Brand, my research indicates that D-Way and Thompson are about equal and excellent. I believe they are better than mfg brands. Correct? Is there a preference to a particular brand/Mfg? Does either give any discount to SC members?

4. Handles, Thompson offers a handle that can be loaded with steel shot. Is that an advantage over a solid handle? Or do you turn your own handles?

5. Scrapers, I have two scrapers I made from an old Delta Skew and old shopsmith skew. They are not HSS but work well except for sharpening frequently. One is sharpened for a inside bowl scraper and one as square. My thought would be to buy Sorby scrapers.

6. I have the Sorby Hollowmaster and Swan Neck hollowing tool so I think I am good there, but need a lot more practice.

Thanks for advice

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Bowl gouges. Questions