The shorter riser of the CH gives longer working limbs in comparison to the overall bow length. There are guys out there (like BobW) with 32" draw lengths shooting 56" Classic Hunters. Personally, I don't see any disadvantage to the CH and several advantages. Gregg favors the CH, and I think Ron probably does too. I would recommend the CH over the SS. If you are interested in keeping the speed as high as possible, I would also suggest foam cores and carbon backing. For traveling archers the Bow Bolt takedown option is definitely desirable. The Shrews are not the fastest bows around, but they are not dogs either. The foam/carbon bows will be plenty fast. With a 29" draw length Ron would recommend a 56" CH, but I have a 29 1/2" draw and can tell you that either a 54" or a 56" CH will suit you just fine. I have some in both lengths and can't say I like one better than the other. I like the shorter length of the 54", but the 56" is a little smoother in the draw. Perhaps Tim Fishell has a 54" CH with a 12" riser, but I just measure my two 54" and two 56" CH's and all of them had 14" risers. I don't have a 52" CH and it may very well have a 12" riser length. You can always check with Gregg Coffey to get the very best information on riser lengths. I think Gregg will steer you towards those who shoot Shrews on a regular basis to tell you what would work best for you at your 29" draw length. Of course, the best thing would be to shoot both and decide for yourself. I do love my Shrews -- all 6 of them and 2 more on order. I also have a bunch of other bows that are great too, but no others that are so nice to shoot while being very light, short, extremely handy, and easy to carry all day.
Allan
Allan