Stan I don't have a lot of history with the Shakespeare line. This one is a X-27 Kaibab and for me, it has THE best grip of any recurve I've shot, and I've shot a lot of them. LOL As a matter of fact I bought an identical bow to this one that's sitting in reserve in case I ever blow this one up. The Shakespeares that I've shot have what I would call a palm swell and fill my hand perfectly. FWIW I've also shot a X-26 Necedah which was a little lighter poundage but basically the same bow.
You might find this link interesting if you are looking at different models.
Root and Shakespeare bows
