Try the John Pearse 1700-L strings. They're 48" long and will do the trick. 1700-L is a light gauge string. If you want medium gauge, then go with the 1800-M. First Quality Music sells them for $3.69/set, which won't break the bank. Supposedly the Pearse brand is not well-known but is reputed to be of very high quality. I'm getting ready to order a few sets for my 1963 Vega Pete Seeger. GHS states that their banjo strings are "extra long (42") and will fit most long neck banjos." However, that would barely reach the 2nd and 3rd tuners on my Vega. The Pearse strings make it with tons of room to spare.