Store Bought Strings and Arrows

[ChristopherO]

Howdy Gents,
I have a low IQ concerning Traditional gear and much of everything else.  You've helped me more than you know already and I hope you can shed even more light on the subject.
Here goes:
This unnamed one piece laminated longbow was a gift about 15 years ago.  It lookes to be a HH style with a slight reflec to the limbs (tips bend past the back of the handle just a tad unstrung).  It is 50# @ 28".  The original string broke a week ago and the local bow (compound) shop had a string that he said would fit it.  From memory I believe I measured the old string at 62" but that may be off.?.  The new string that was supposed to be the correct size was actually 1" shorter.  "Not to worry," said the man, "The old string stretched that much."  I mentioned to him that the new fistmele, or brace hight, is 8 7/8" and seems to be a bit much.  "As long as it is 9" or under you should be in good shape", was his reply.  What do you think?
I am also ready to invest in a dozen arrows soon.  Probably carbon as I have a long way to go and need the toughness they offer for practice and hunting.  Any suggestions on a good practical carbon arrow for a longbow?  If this isn't the best choice feel free to let me know.
Thank you, Christopher.

[LBR]

It is possible the string will stretch an inch or more, especially if it's dacron and wasn't pre-stretched. 9" is way high for every longbow I know of--most will get a brace of 7.5" or less.  Probably won't damage the bow, but will cost you performance and add slightly to the draw weight.

I'm no help on carbon arrows, but I can say you'll want to stay with at least 8 grains per lb of draw weight--i.e., if you are pulling 50# you'll want a finished arrow weight of at least 400 grains.  More won't hurt a thing, less will increase handshock and noise, and could damage the bow.

Chad