Do be so quick to not blame it on the bow! If the person was a smoker the strings on bows hold sent like a sent pad, Dynema is a very absobent material. You or I might not be able to smell it but it could still be there. OK If it does not readily say it on the bow, what it is, you need to take it to a shop so someone can take a look at it. Secondly, do you know the poundage the limbs are on the bow? This will make a difference in the bolts you buy for it, this can be explained to you in better detail when a techy at a shop looks at it. third. You can measure for bolt length. From the back of the bed on the bow (that top split on the shelf were the arrow goes all the way back into the cocking mechinism) to the front. Then add approx. one to two inches for appropriate broadhead clearance. This would be much easier if I could see the bow in person. I am doing my best to explain... Got any pics? This is the one thing I can argue with anyone on since I have been a level 1 archery instructor for the past 6 years and have shot for Bowtech and Hoyt. I also make custome strings if anyone needs a set... But yes I do charge. Dynema products keep climbing in price.