Stock Hook

[Nosler243Shooter]

I hope to get a custom rifle built sometime next year. I can't decide If I like the stock hook or not. I have recently changed to a Triad wedge bag from a protector sand bag. I took my stock pack off my rifle and am beginning to appreciate the hook. This has allowed me to use my atlas on the lowest setting. Are the stock hooks the way to go for a squeeze type bag or is something like a Manners T2 the way to go? My max range is 500 yards. I shoot from the bench more than prone.

 

[Kilmore]

Never used a stock hook or a condom. None of the best rifle custom builders include a stock hook on their rifles. Kinda says it all.

 

[Drew890]

Never used a stock hook or a condom. None of the best rifle custom builders include a stock hook on their rifles. Kinda says it all.

I'm confused by this. Both Tac Ops and GAP offer several rifle models with hook stocks. Do you not consider them as high end rifle builders?

 

[Kilmore]

OK, allow me to re phrase my statement. I never used one in 19 years of military service, or shooting since 1967. I have not seen one in use by anyone that I can remember. I did have a SPAS shotgun that had one in the 80's. I took it off the day I bought it. I just breezed the entire GAP webpage and did not see a rifle with a stock hook or offered as an option. Maybe I am missing something here?

 

[rcampbell]

Pretty sure the OP is referring to the hook along the bottom of the butt of a tactical stock.

In this pic the T4 has it, the T2 doesn't:

 

[Danley]

Alot depends on the use. With the hook, the flat bottom (not the hook itself) allows it to track better (with correct bag) on the bench. Without the hook, there's more of a taper which allows for quick elevation changes ... Such as in the field. For the type shooting the majority of the guys here do, a stock without the hook fills there needs.

 

[Roddd]

It's good enough for the marines. I had a McM A4 stock and liked the flat bottom. I also like the flat bottom on my Manners T4.

 

[Drew890]

OK, allow me to re phrase my statement. I never used on in 19 years of military service, or shooting since 1967. I have not seen one in use by anyone that I can remember. I did have a SPAS shotgun that had one in the 80's. I took it off the day I bought it. I just breezed the entire GAP webpage and did not see a rifle with a stock hook or offered as an option. Maybe I am missing something here?

99.99% sure that the OP is asking about rifle stocks with a hook design and not an outdated shotgun. Check out the Crusader, HRT rifle, and the Hospitaller as a reference point. Custom Rifles - GA Precision

 

[Temp9]

Alot depends on the use. With the hook, the flat bottom (not the hook itself) allows it to track better (with correct bag) on the bench. Without the hook, there's more of a taper which allows for quick elevation changes ... Such as in the field. For the type shooting the majority of the guys here do, a stock without the hook fills there needs.

Butt hook or no seems to be more about personal preference than usage to me. With proper recoil control, a non-hooked (sloped) butt will track fine because the bag won't shift on the butt all that much. Similarly, with practice, a hooked butt doesn't hinder elevation changes with a rear bag at all. I prefer a hooked butt because I can use it anchor my rear bag in a sense. On a non-hooked butt, I'll generally get the bag against the sling stud/swivel so I can do the same thing.

 

[Kilmore]

Ah yes, a BUTT HOOK. My AI, Surgeon, LMT all have a butt hook stock. The flat on the bottom is excellent for use with a rear squeeze bag (a sock filled with rice back in the day). Cleaner recoil follow through without elevation change. Also great for a secondary grip with your non shooting hand.

 

[Nosler243Shooter]

Thanks for the replies. I shot rifles with both stock styles yesterday. After changing to the squeeze type bag I like the hook style better. With a Triad wedge the butt hook stock is rock solid from the bench. Now to decide McMillan or Manners.

 

[Danley]

Both are great stocks. I have a Manners T4 and choose it over the McMillan simply because I shoot from a bench a good bit (actually shoot club bench rest matches with it) and the flat spot behind the hook is more parallel to the barrel (than the McMillan) and let's it track well. This also allows you to see impacts easier vs a tappered stock. I have friends with the A5's and the do well, but I personally like the tracking of the Manners on the bench. When using a bipod & rear squeeze bag, I don't think you will see a difference between the two.

What part of Alabama are you from?