1. Carbons are not indestructible. If you rove you'll need to inspect them closely for fractures. Every now and then someone posts a picture of carbon splinters in their forearm. Scares me.
2. Take the time to straighten. Its easy, just takes a little time, until you get good at it. Get a good compression straightener. And use heat on hardwoods.
3. POC and Sitka are pretty consistent light weight softwoods. Sitka is more durable, and amazingly consistent. Ash is a GREAT hardwood (>600grain) arrow wood. I get mine from Allegheny Arrow Woods.
4. Wood is wonderful, although it is more work. You don't have to settle for second rate with it, if you have the time and inclination.