Mark,
I have several Classic Hunters and a Super Shrew and definitely prefer the Classic Hunter (CH) for most hunting situations. They are both great bows. I have a 29 1/2" draw and the 54" length in a CH is fine for me. I have about an equal number of 54" and 56" CHs. With my longer draw length, a 56" CH is slightly smoother, but you wouldn't notice the difference since you only have a 26" draw. You could probably shoot a 52" with no problem if you wanted to, but why push it? You are going to love the short length and great handling of the CH.
Allan