The barrel channels on my Ruger M77 stocks are cut with a noticeable contact point at the tip of the forend. Ruger M77 factory barrels are way too thin to be free-floated. My ought-six strings vertically -- typical of light-barreled rifles, in my experience. I am thinking of sending it to Shaw for their #1-1/2-contour 24" barrel, same cartridge. Can't beat the old .30-'06.