Wondering what the thoughts are regarding the different stock and barrel options. If you were making your choice, would you go for the natural wood/blued steel, natural wood/stainless, or synthetic/stainless and why?

My current rifle is natural wood/blued steel, and while attractive I'm certain I'll ding it up at some point. Sort of like your car, you dread that first door ding, but it doesn't affect the handling.