Perhaps it would "fix it" for shifters if they learned hand to hand faster when using claws of the lion. It might reduce the woes of a formless shifter.

I just use horns of the bull. But I always thought claws of the lion should be slightly cooler. But I'm still not sure how to make it a better low level spell.

I don't know the math behind claws, but it just doesn't feel as awesome as horns of the bull. Maybe its that horns can reach high burst damage.

I always have problems getting those low level spells up.