Why are graphite shafted golf clubs longer than steel shafted golf clubs?
Graphite is longer than steel to keep the weight of the club the same. With all else being equal, if you went with “standard” graphite (without the added 1″ or so that you need), the new clubs would feel lighter than your old set. If this is a help or a hindrance, I can’t say… it depends on you and your swing. The salesperson is just spouting information, without really applying it to your special circumstances. You’d probably be better off going elsewhere to be fit for clubs (a certified pro can also be more helpful if you’re up in the air about steel or graphite) and maybe coming back with the specs to purchase the irons.