I think the advantage of the plastic stock is that it is very light; there's a distinct difference between the Boyds wooden stocks and the plastic stock as far as the weight goes. The Boyds wooden stocks offer lots of advantages and the Macmillan grip is truly magnificent; I was a certified sceptic (read ignorant) of that stock style until I shot one and now I am a firm believer. The plastic is very light in comparison and I think it's some what of a field rifle and easier to carry when out hunting or gopher shooting. The accuracy will suffer but as Kevin Costner was told by his caddy Cheech Marin in the movie Tin Cup, getting it on the green is good enough (if you take my meaning). How accurate does it have to be at 25 to 50 yards? The movement of the forend can be a little disconcerting but if it does the job no matter...I think Savage has produced a line that suits many people...good for them, they are really sensational little rifles but seriously don't work the bolt like Nutnfancy does, it's not a Lee Enfield! Just pick the one that fits your needs and if you have multiple needs buy a couple!