what size braid? I would say if the spool is rated for a max of 10 lbs and you're putting 50lb braid on there, you may tax the graphite spools. If you're putting 20lb on, you should be fine. If you have the option of metal vs. graphite, go with the metal for braid.
It doesn't really matter, although typically the graphite ones are the "braid spools" because there is more friction between the line and the spool. This prevents the line from slipping. If you've ever tied braid straight to an aluminum spool you've probably seen how annoying it is to get the first bit spooled.
The easiest (and most economic) approach is to use whatever spool you have available, but to put some cheap mono on as backing. You can probably fill the spool as much as halfwayish, then join the braid onto the mono and finish spooling with that. You'll use half as much braid, and shouldn't experience any ill effects except on small spools. On those, just do a base layer of mono before joining.
I personally prefer aluminum spools, as the graphite ones tend to have mold lines and other imperfections that I don't want my fishing line rubbing against.
The easiest (and most economic) approach is to use whatever spool you have available, but to put some cheap mono on as backing. You can probably fill the spool as much as halfwayish, then join the braid onto the mono and finish spooling with that. You'll use half as much braid, and shouldn't experience any ill effects except on small spools. On those, just do a base layer of mono before joining.
I personally prefer aluminum spools, as the graphite ones tend to have mold lines and other imperfections that I don't want my fishing line rubbing against.
Another option is to use arbor tape, a few braid manufacturers ie: Power Pro, actually provide it with their line along with instructions. Definitely helps keep the line from slipping! My personal preference is the aluminum spool, prefer the smoother finish for less line friction.
