I prefer "brats" . I'm not sure if the crossbow is heavier than my firearms ,, but it sure feels that way . I say that ,, and I don't even have a quiver or a magnifying scope on it (red dot). I keep my "other" bolt in my pocket . If I only take weight away from the butt end of the stock ,, then I make it that much more front heavy(no good). Maybe I bought the wrong crossbow ? I'd feel better with a metal stock anyway . Live and learn .