I've had two thumbhole stocks, one on a custom 35Whelen the other on a Model 70.I'm pretty sure the35Whelen was a Boyds. It was a laminated thumbhole. I have to be honest it did take some getting used to but after that I was VERY happy. To me it's a more natural hold. Hold yourtrigger hand up and pretend you're pointing a pistol. Thats the positionyour hand is in with a thumbhole. Now hold the same hand up and pretend you're holding a regular rifle. It's almost like you have to force that hand into position. A thumbhole helpsto tame recoildue to the was the rifle is held. It also helps those treestand shots that are'nt right in front of you.

Like everything else though it's up to the individual shooter. Many people hate them, some love them. Pick one up for yourself and see. If you know anyone with one try it out at the range. As soon as I finda synthetic thumbhole that fits my new Howa I'll be sure to get one.