Thumbhole stock

[Philski]

Just my own opinion, but thumbhole stocks seem to be more for aesthetics than function. If you like the look of them, get one. I doubt that just having a consistent hand placement will noticeably improve your shooting though. Regardless of stock type, you'll find a comfortable enough position to shoot from in most situations, or you simply won't take the shot.
GRS, as mentioned a few times above, do some simply beautiful laminated thumbhole and pistol-grip style stocks and for a great variety of rifles. Well worth a look at their range before making a decision.

 

[jcampbellsmith]

Since first encountering a thumbhole stock in 1999, I've been an enthusiast. Currently have two ambidextrous McMillan made stocks as shown below.

Regards

JCS

 

[NullMac]

If you observe where precision shooters position the thumb of their shooting hand it becomes obvious that a thumbhole stock makes no sense.
The thumb doesn't go around the pistol grip but lies on the side/top. The more vertical position of the pistol grip is the real advantage, only most people don't realise that.

Yes its very trendy.

As to being best practice, well that's debatable. It's what gives the best results that is Best Practice.

I do the side thumb thing on my AI. I can see a slight shift from a left pressure when I grip the rifle classically and moving the thumb is both more comfortable and doesn't push the rifle off.

On my Blaser however I find that just awkward and get better results with the thumb in the hole (ooh er Mrs) but with zero thumb pressure.

Its your horse, ride it how you will ...

 

[Steff]

……
On my Blaser however I find that just awkward and get better results with the thumb in the hole (ooh er Mrs) but with zero thumb pressure.
……

Yes, I agree. It‘s almost impossible to have the thumb on the side on a Blaser TH because there is an edge there. Very awkward.

 

[JH83]

A factor no one ever thought of

Keeping your pie out of the pickup load bed!

 

[Tazz]

Individual choice but I have Thumbholes on all my hunting rifles, much better grip standing/kneeling and laying down, a more natural position for your wrist I find, other opinions will follow

 

[glasshalffull]

Always thought thumbhole stocks might be less robust than a standard stock, especially the wooden ones.

 

[Cyres]

I love my XIV carbine thumbhole walnut. Sublime to shoot. Super accurate with correct make of .22 subs
D

 

[Foxyboy43]

Always thought thumbhole stocks might be less robust than a standard stock, especially the wooden ones.

Nope!
Thumbholes on everything from .17hmr, through .222 to .308 rifles. No issues and very comfortable to shoot.