For me it's a no brainer. The SBEII has been much more productive for me. I owned both the gold had issues with loading as previously mentioned. The SBEII has the cryo barrell so it doesn't contract or expand due to change in temperature. Besides that fact that it's easier to clean, and easier to handle in my opinion. Also the SBE II gives you the option to adjust the stock in many different ways. Good Luck.