Thanks for the insights. I'll order some shafts and get the experimenting started.
I am going to build these arrows to have about 275-300 gr up front, and use my own custom-cut 4" feathers and custom wraps on the tail end. By my initial, pre-tune calculations indicate that the arrows will be between 520 and 550 grains and about 24% FOC. Of course, these figures are subject to the effects of tuning and might change a bit.
As far as this season's souped-up bow is concerned. I have picked up a used Centaur Chimera that is 43# at my 29" draw. I am very impressed with its smoothness, stability, and speed. It seems to have a good balance of attributes. I have another Centaur on order, a Triple Carbon Elite, that will be a bit more souped up -- and the Chimera will suffice until my slot in the build wait list comes up.
The evidence on FOC that is available now is very convincing. I have developed an arrow for the Chimera that is 18% FOC and 510 gr, and it performs well. This experiment is to see if i can develop something better.
The souped up bows that I have picked up on the used bow market and that have impressed me as good performers while still being stable are the ACS-CX and the Centaur in the R/D bow category; and the Rose Oak in the recurve category (I like the Rose Oak limbs on a Bear TD riser). I have chosen the Centaur to start with because I really like the grip and the stability of that bow, but the others are also first-rate bows that could easily accommodate my need to hunt with a reduced draw weight to preserve my arthritic shoulder joints for as many more years of hunting as possible. I am now 67 and I hope that this move will make it possible for me to bow hunt for another 15 years or more.
Thanks again for the help and information. I will start a new thread post on the new arrows after I have worked out the kinks in the design and development.