ATA is basically a preference. Some guys like the long ATA and others like the short. I have a DXT and the ATA is 29.75 Its nice and compact and doesnt get in the way when shooting out of a tree stand. The "benefit" you might hear some people argue about having a longer ATA is that they hold a little steadier on the target. Think of it like this.. which is easier to hold perpendicular to the ground a 2x4 thats a foot long or a 2x4 thats 6 foot long.. the extra length makes it a bit harder to twitch or tweak... Hopefully you understahd what i mean..