as some of you may know, i am looking at getting a muzzleloader. my question is how do all of you like the thumbhole stocks? and are they better than the traditional style of stock?

Strictly my opinion. I like the look of the thumbhole but the versitility of the traditional stock. Thumbholes are heavier, more awkward, and cannot be shot left and right handed. They sure do look nice.

Kinda of like women I guess.

Tom

I like the feel of a thumbhole stock. IMO I hold the rifle better, and shoot more accurately. I have LH thumbhole stocks. Mine have the type of grip that can be shot LH or RH. Tom.

If you are getting an Encore or Omega...I don't know why you would want to have a thumbhole stock? How can you cock the hammer rearward with your thumb through the stock? Don't make sense to me?

Thumbholes will make for better offhand accuracy, and are pretty comfortable. They also look very sharp.Downsidesare cost and a little extra weight. There are a few advantages and disadvantages to a standard stock which could be argued, but I say they're about equal and it's the shooters preferences on looks and comfort.

My preference is the traditional stock. I just don't like the way thumbhole stocks look, feel or function.

I handled a traditions XLT with a thumbhole stock and Loved it! It fit my hand perfectly. However, i also handled a few centerfires with the thumbhole stock and found all of them were a fight fit and hurt my hand. You better try out the thumbhole stock model of muzzleloader you're looking at and make sure it fits you right.

My thoughts exactly swampcollie! With thumbhole stocks,you won't be able to manipulate safety or hammer in most models. On models like ruger 10-22 semi rimfire with triggerguard safety,they make sense.

Encore thumbhole's are the berrie's. Are you guys saying you do not have enough dexterity to cock a hammer. I do not even need the extension. Tom.

If you have larger hands, thumbhole stocks are not the way to go. A Druganov stock would be a better option if it's the hand position you are after and you have gorilla hands like me. I gave up on both a while back and use primarily sporter stocks.