Plain and simple I am just a better shot with a longbow. Byron Ferguson said it best "The longbow is more forgiving" and I agree. There is less finger pinch. They draw smoother, hold easier etc.. I would even go so far as to say the longer the better. I have 5 bows that I shoot regularly, from 54" to 70". Guess which one I shoot best? The 70. Not to mention you get great cast with a longbow, which equates to penetration and/or range. Long limbs = long cast. And honestly I think this whole hand shock thing is a hoot! You just have to hold it, not choke it! If you're feeling shock, you're just over gripping the bow. Be gentle with your bow hand and let the bow do what it does.