buying first used sails

Question
i'm a beginner, approaching intermediate skill level.  I've been looking for used equipment on craigslist and have some questions about sails.  I think I want 2 to start, maybe a 5.0 and a 6.3.  The 5.0 can be my learning sail and could be used later for higher wind, assuming I improve.  I read that logic somewhere.

I will most likely not find 2 sail sizes that are the same make and model of sail. How important is that?  If I get a brand-A 5.0 and a brand-Y 6.3, will they be so different to tune and feel different to me at my level?

Should I only but a freeride sail?  I don't understand the  difference between slalom, race, wave, freeride etc.  I understand I should stay away from cambers.  At my level, I am just looking to go straight in the harness and footstraps on flat water, but possibly a bit of chop in the SF bay, when I get better.  

I still rent boards, but looking at Bic Techno (160), Starboard Go(155) or Starboard Futura.  These are the ones I can demo at my local shop and looking at the higher volume boards.

I did buy a Sailworks Retro 8.0 this week w/boom and mast.  I realize it is too huge for me now, but it was only $50 and it's perfect.  I wish I could find that in the smaller size that I need. $50 on Craigslist and $600 new.  That's crazy!   I see 8.0 sails at the light wind spot that I sail and those are the only guys who are planing.

Answer
Hey John,

Different sail sizes will not feel that different and if you get similar sails (ie; freeride, slalom, etc.), they will rig similarly.
The advice of staying away from cambers is good as you don't really need the extra power they provide or the difficulty in rigging them. If you are going with newer used sails, freeride is what they will be called. The older style were called RAF sails. For the sailing you say you will be doing, RAF or freeride will work just fine. Neither of these types will have cambers. For the two sizes you mention, you should be able to get by with one mast but you may need two booms, depending upon the sail requirements.

As for the differences;
Race sails usually have 3-5 cambers with a deep draft and are designed for power, speed, upwind ability.
Slalom sails can have 1-4 cambers and are designed for power and speed on a reach or downwind.
Wave sails have no cambers but have a high foot and tend to have less power. Wave sailors want power to get going on the wave and then be able to shut it off quickly for surfing the wave.
Freeride are the most versatile sails. Used for just fun sailing but are very user friendly for tricks and all level sailors. Easy to rig and use.

The boards you mention would be a good fit for your abilities and would also serve you well when the winds are light. Just keep shopping on cragslist for sails. Also watch ebay. Check out iwindsurf.com, buy/sell for used gear. Lots available down your way.

Sorry about the delay in replying. Was away for the holiday weekend and forgot to set up for vacation here.

Hope this helps.
Keep on sailing,
Windlover