Rear or middle grip for Unlimited

[0n0w1c]

I have yet to play the silhouette game... but I am thinking about a custom gun (yes, I am a bit crazy).

What are the pro's and con's for the rear vs. middle grip stocks for a bolt gun?
If that is the correct terms but I hope you understand what I am asking.
Obvioiusly the weight distrubution is altered... but what are the pros and cons?
Is one better for standing (middle I would assume) rear for creedmoor (rear)?
Is there more to it, such as perceived recoil? Maybe scope/eye relief is part of it?

[B_Koes]

Most (if not all) prefer the mid-grip for freestyle because of the balance and the fact that it puts the scope a little closer to your eye.  As you pointed out, another big difference really is weight distribution and rear grip bolt guns tend to want to slide down your leg at the most inopportune moment causing a missed target.  Eye relief is an issue from creedmore when you start getting into the higher magnifications.  I don't know of anyone using a mid-grip for Unlimited Standing...mainly because when coupled with a Ken Light high rise scope mount a rear grip is preferable for dampening recoil and keeping a steady hold.

My personal advise to you is to wait until you've shot more than a few times before rushing headlong into a purchase decision.  I'm sure you'll be able to find people who have setups similar to what you're contemplating and they will likely let you shoot it to get a feel and see if you really do like it.  Silhouettes really is a game of skill and you can accomplish a perfect round with a "cheap Contender".

[jcunclejoe]

0n0w1c, where are you located? Maybe we can put you in contact with someone local that can show you and, most likely, let you shoot different guns and then you would have much more information to make a decision.

B_Koes, is right on target. Most folks prefer the mid grip for creedmore, some use the rear grip for dead frog, and the rear grip is the most popular for Unlimited standing.

Eye relief quickly becomes an issue with a rear grip in creedmore or dead frog. For open sights it doesn't matter.
I personally use the mid grip in creedmore and use a contender for US (and everything else but revolver.)

Good luck on your decision and welcome to handgun silhouette.
Joe Cullison
Oregon State IHMSA director
jcunclejoe@aol.com
541-317-8801

[0n0w1c]

Thanks for the information, much appreciated.
So, what you are saying is that I probably need to acquire both styles of stocks and scope mounts if I plan on competing in both freestyle and standing... or will I need to think about two guns? cha-ching, cha-ching, more $$$... the wife will love to hear that. 

I will be attending the Regional Champingships in a couple of weeks, I hope to learn a bunch. It helps to know something about before I get there so I can know what to look for maybe even ask a coherent question or two.

[B_Koes]

A gun doesn't readily convert from a rear grip to a mid grip.  It requires a different trigger assembly as well.  I hesitate to steer you away from a bolt gun because they are excellent guns for shooting silhouette, however they are not the most versatile and can only compete in a few categories.  If you want maximum value then the Contender is hands down your choice.  If given proper attention they are wonderfully accurate and capable of competing in every category other than revolver with a switch of a barrel.  A new barrel will cost somewhere between 100-300 (depending upon new/used/custom) but is much less than one xp-100.  Besides you will of course want to apply a good amount of cash towards a premium scope.  My point is that there will always be things to spend your money on and if you're like me then you can get maximum reuse of your investment by going with the Contender.

[0n0w1c]

I have been the TC more consideration over the last couple of days. I had my heart set on custom bolt gun so it is taking a bit of time to setup proper in my head. I plan on making it to a regonal match a couple of weeks to check things out first hand, maybe that will help me... then again, it just may give more things to ponder.

[7br]

Why not both?  Just need to figure out which to get first.  Over the past 15 years or so, I have managed to pick up a new (to me) gun about once a year.  I do sell under used/under appreciated firearms to finance the next project.  Still have my xp and still have my original contender that I started with about 18 years ago.