I shoot mine totally naked (the bow that is... calm down!) no grip, no tape, I did have an arrow pass on, mainly to assist me in placing my hand. But now I'm more accustomed to the bow I can just 'feel' the correct position in my hand.
They do shoot VERY flat yes - one of the reasons I love it! If you're getting hand shock, it could be that the arrows aren't quite heavy enough? Also - you don't need to grip it tight, just tight enough to keep hold of it. I think for me it's easier because that's the way I ride my motorcycle - I'm accustomed to holding something without 'gripping' it (if that makes any sense!). On a bike that can translate to over-sensitivity on steering movements, and tired muscles over time. I think it's a bit like fencing - they say to grip the sword 'like a small bird in your hand - with control, but not a crushing grip'. archery/fencing/biking ... all very similar.