Re: whisker biscuit
Finn hit the nail on the head about the arm guard, but I do use a RT arm guard while hunting when I have thick cold weather clothes on. It's purpose is to give the string clearnace, by compressing your sleeve down. A string hitting your coat sleeve is bad news for bowhunters. Alos, if your hitting your arm, it may be from the draw length being to long or your torqueing the bow, make sure it's the correct one for you.
Some bows don't really need a stablizer, because of string dampeners and dampeners in the risers, but most others will to absorb shock and vibrations. The stablizer takes and absorbs alot of the shot shock and balances the bow out.
Having your bow restrung is completely up to how much string wear you are getting and that depends on the amount you shoot your bow. Most string materials are now are so durable, the average shooter can make them last for 3 to 5 years.
I would try a release to start with, it'll grealy improve your accuracy and holding ability. Just keep your finger off the trigger while drawing the bow back, it'll deter you from bowhunting if you don't. LOL